https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around ThailandenSat, 16 May 2026 22:28:12 +0000Grifters. 100 percent BSSat, 16 May 2026 22:28:12 +0000CricketSat, 16 May 2026 22:27:08 +0000Likely about 5 greats unless he lived to 150Sat, 16 May 2026 22:26:54 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-rangers-arrest-nine-fleeing-poipet-scam-gangs-r1822/Thai border rangers in Sa Kaeo have arrested nine Thai nationals attempting to cross illegally from Cambodia after fleeing a crackdown on Chinese-run call centre scam operations in Poipet. Get today's headlines by email The arrests took place on 16 May 2026 during intensified patrols by Burapha Task Force units and the 12th Ranger Regiment Task Force along the Thai-Cambodian border. Authorities said the group had been abandoned by Chinese operators after Cambodian authorities launched a major campaign against scam compounds in Poipet. At around 08.00, soldiers from Ranger Company 1202 and intelligence teams from Burapha Task Force detained five Thai men near Ban Pa Rai Mai village in Aranyaprathet district. The men, from Surin, Saraburi, Surat Thani and Phetchabun provinces, were found crossing on foot without travel documents. During questioning, the group admitted travelling illegally to work for Chinese call centre gangs in Poipet. They said their role involved renting out bank accounts, known in Thailand as “mule accounts”, and repeatedly scanning their faces to verify transactions. The suspects told officers that Cambodian authorities had intensified operations against scam syndicates in the border town, prompting Chinese employers to shut down offices, take the money and flee. Left stranded, the men attempted to return to Thailand on foot before being caught. Thirty minutes later, at 08.30, soldiers from Ranger Company 1201 arrested another four Thai nationals, two men and two women, while they were climbing a border wall behind Rong Kluea Market in Aranyaprathet. The group came from Chon Buri, Nakhon Ratchasima and Samut Songkhram provinces. The four claimed they had been deceived or pressured into working online for Chinese-operated scam gangs in Poipet. According to investigators, they worked as romance scammers, posing as online partners in schemes designed to trick Thai victims into transferring money. The suspects said their office had also been shut down as Cambodian authorities expanded enforcement operations against scam compounds. With no alternative arrangements, they attempted to scale the border wall and re-enter Thailand illegally. Naewna reported that Thai authorities have stepped up border security measures in response to increased cross-border criminal activity linked to online fraud networks operating in neighbouring Cambodia. The nine suspects were taken into custody for further legal proceedings and investigation into their involvement with scam operations. Picture courtesy of Naewna Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 17 May 2026Sat, 16 May 2026 22:23:41 +0000Thai border rangers in Sa Kaeo have arrested nine Thai nationals attempting to cross illegally from Cambodia after fleeing a crackdown on Chinese-run call centre scam operations in Poipet. Get today's headlines by email The arrests took place on 16 May 2026 during intensified patrols by Burapha Task Force units and the 12th Ranger Regiment Task Force along the Thai-Cambodian border. Authorities said the group had been abandoned by Chinese operators after Cambodian authorities launched a major campaign against scam compounds in Poipet. At around 08.00, soldiers from Ranger Company 1202 and intelligence teams from Burapha Task Force detained five Thai men near Ban Pa Rai Mai village in Aranyaprathet district. The men, from Surin, Saraburi, Surat Thani and Phetchabun provinces, were found crossing on foot without travel documents. During questioning, the group admitted travelling illegally to work for Chinese call centre gangs in Poipet. They said their role involved renting out bank accounts, known in Thailand as “mule accounts”, and repeatedly scanning their faces to verify transactions. The suspects told officers that Cambodian authorities had intensified operations against scam syndicates in the border town, prompting Chinese employers to shut down offices, take the money and flee. Left stranded, the men attempted to return to Thailand on foot before being caught. Thirty minutes later, at 08.30, soldiers from Ranger Company 1201 arrested another four Thai nationals, two men and two women, while they were climbing a border wall behind Rong Kluea Market in Aranyaprathet. The group came from Chon Buri, Nakhon Ratchasima and Samut Songkhram provinces. The four claimed they had been deceived or pressured into working online for Chinese-operated scam gangs in Poipet. According to investigators, they worked as romance scammers, posing as online partners in schemes designed to trick Thai victims into transferring money. The suspects said their office had also been shut down as Cambodian authorities expanded enforcement operations against scam compounds. With no alternative arrangements, they attempted to scale the border wall and re-enter Thailand illegally. Naewna reported that Thai authorities have stepped up border security measures in response to increased cross-border criminal activity linked to online fraud networks operating in neighbouring Cambodia. The nine suspects were taken into custody for further legal proceedings and investigation into their involvement with scam operations. Picture courtesy of Naewna Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 17 May 2026 View full articleSat, 16 May 2026 22:23:41 +0000I'm no expert, but as rasttlesnake above says...do nothing for now...........You're 20 years into the property, the company was registered 20 years ago, so your company is far less likey than almost most I would say, to be investigated unless you are on some fancy bespoke development on a steep hillside on Koh samui for example. I would guess that alot of Thai nominee issues are found by investigators searching for title deed misnomas first for whatever reason; and then cross referenced by ownerships... The latest companies if at all, which will first be researched into are ones the powers that be have paid for information on/Thai snitches,ones on dodgy hilllsides or ones of immense value. So, unless you feel that yours fits into that category, I'd relax a little.....The biggest will always attract the most because of financial gain by whoever......................the old adage 'don't open a tin of worms' .....comes to mind. It'll all work out and maybe when everything calms down, you have time to consider a better approach or stay with existing, I feel time is on your side...............Buona fortuna.......Sat, 16 May 2026 22:18:06 +0000But far far from harmless.Sat, 16 May 2026 22:17:43 +0000Why do you hate Youtubers?Sat, 16 May 2026 22:17:29 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/foreigner-hurt-after-jump-from-pickup-in-pattaya-r1821/A foreign man suffered serious head injuries after jumping from a moving pickup truck at a busy junction in Pattaya before being run over by the vehicle’s rear wheel, police said. The incident happened at 08.55 on 16 May 2026 near the Land Department junction on Pattaya Third Road, Chon Buri province. Get today's headlines by email Officers from Pattaya City Police Station and rescue workers rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a seriously injured person lying on the road. Witnesses told police that a black Toyota Hilux Revo pickup truck, registration from Bangkok, had been travelling normally with the foreign man as a passenger when he suddenly jumped from the moving vehicle as it approached the junction. The man struck the road heavily before the pickup’s rear wheel ran over his head, leaving him critically injured. People nearby were reportedly shocked as the incident unfolded in the middle of busy morning traffic. According to witnesses, the driver failed to stop after the man fell from the vehicle. Instead, the pickup truck accelerated away from the area immediately following the incident. Rescue workers provided emergency first aid at the scene before transferring the injured man to Pattaya City Hospital for urgent treatment. Traffic police officer Pol Sub Lt Somsak, helped manage traffic around the junction during the emergency response. Police said the injured man was wearing a white T-shirt and black shorts. His identity and nationality have not yet been confirmed because he was carrying no identification documents and was unable to speak to officers due to the severity of his injuries. Investigators led by Pol Capt Chainaret Pengkaen, deputy investigation inspector at Pattaya police station, examined the scene and gathered evidence. Pol Lt Col Kosala Ngamphong, deputy superintendent for investigations, ordered officers to review CCTV footage from the Land Department junction and nearby routes. Police are attempting to trace the black Toyota pickup truck and identify the driver for questioning. Officers are also investigating why the foreign man decided to jump from the moving vehicle. Authorities said further legal action would follow once the driver is located and questioned. Pictures courtesy of ฉลาม นิวส์ Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ฉลาม นิวส์ 17 May 2026Sat, 16 May 2026 22:15:32 +0000A foreign man suffered serious head injuries after jumping from a moving pickup truck at a busy junction in Pattaya before being run over by the vehicle’s rear wheel, police said. The incident happened at 08.55 on 16 May 2026 near the Land Department junction on Pattaya Third Road, Chon Buri province. Get today's headlines by email Officers from Pattaya City Police Station and rescue workers rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a seriously injured person lying on the road. Witnesses told police that a black Toyota Hilux Revo pickup truck, registration from Bangkok, had been travelling normally with the foreign man as a passenger when he suddenly jumped from the moving vehicle as it approached the junction. The man struck the road heavily before the pickup’s rear wheel ran over his head, leaving him critically injured. People nearby were reportedly shocked as the incident unfolded in the middle of busy morning traffic. According to witnesses, the driver failed to stop after the man fell from the vehicle. Instead, the pickup truck accelerated away from the area immediately following the incident. Rescue workers provided emergency first aid at the scene before transferring the injured man to Pattaya City Hospital for urgent treatment. Traffic police officer Pol Sub Lt Somsak, helped manage traffic around the junction during the emergency response. Police said the injured man was wearing a white T-shirt and black shorts. His identity and nationality have not yet been confirmed because he was carrying no identification documents and was unable to speak to officers due to the severity of his injuries. Investigators led by Pol Capt Chainaret Pengkaen, deputy investigation inspector at Pattaya police station, examined the scene and gathered evidence. Pol Lt Col Kosala Ngamphong, deputy superintendent for investigations, ordered officers to review CCTV footage from the Land Department junction and nearby routes. Police are attempting to trace the black Toyota pickup truck and identify the driver for questioning. Officers are also investigating why the foreign man decided to jump from the moving vehicle. Authorities said further legal action would follow once the driver is located and questioned. Pictures courtesy of ฉลาม นิวส์ Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ฉลาม นิวส์ 17 May 2026 View full articleSat, 16 May 2026 22:15:32 +0000Including the one's who actually commit crimes while inside ? I don't think so.Sat, 16 May 2026 22:09:50 +0000Far right commentSat, 16 May 2026 22:08:46 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-land-bridge-faces-investor-doubts-r1820/Thailand’s proposed “land bridge” linking the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand has regained attention amid tensions over shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca. The project, which would create a 90-kilometre road and rail corridor between Ranong and Chumphon provinces, is being promoted as a way to strengthen Thailand’s geostrategic role and boost its weak economy. Get today's headlines by email The renewed focus followed comments by Singaporean Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing during a visit to Thailand late last month, when he expressed interest in the project. His remarks came shortly after Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa suggested vessels using the Malacca Strait could face toll charges similar to Iranian pressure tactics in the Persian Gulf. Indonesia later clarified it had no intention of imposing transit fees and would continue following international maritime law under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Singapore also did not formally follow up on Mr Chan’s remarks, but the discussion renewed debate over shipping security and alternative trade routes in Southeast Asia. The land bridge is viewed as a scaled-down alternative to the long-discussed “Kra Canal” proposal, which dates back to the 17th century. Thai governments periodically considered building a canal through the southern peninsula, similar to the Suez or Panama canals, but concerns over national security and fears of separatism in the deep South prevented progress. Former prime minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha formally shelved the canal proposal by 2018 and replaced it with the land bridge concept. The project later became associated with governments linked to the transport ministry, the construction sector and the Chidchob family. The current coalition government led by the Bhumjaithai Party under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is promoting the project as part of efforts to revive Thailand’s economy, which is growing at below 2% annually. The government has also proposed a wider “southern economic corridor” focused on trade, investment, tourism and links to China’s rail network connecting Kunming in Yunnan with Vientiane in Laos and eventually Bangkok. Experts Pavida Pananond of Thammasat Business School and Thitinan Pongsudhirak of Chulalongkorn University questioned whether the project could attract enough shipping demand to justify its estimated cost of more than US$30 billion. They argued that shipping operators prioritise cost, reliability and efficiency, while transferring cargo containers across nearly 100 kilometres of land would add extra handling and expense. The experts also noted that the Strait of Malacca carries not only container cargo but also tankers, bulk carriers and gas carriers that cannot easily use a road and rail corridor. They said the project has drawn more interest from property developers and investors seeking Special Economic Zone incentives than from major shipping companies. The Bangkokpost reported that civil society groups are expected to oppose the project over environmental and social concerns, while the opposition People’s Party is likely to scrutinise costs, feasibility and potential graft allegations. Completion is not expected before the mid-2030s due to feasibility studies, environmental assessments and bidding processes. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 17 May 2026Sat, 16 May 2026 22:06:16 +0000Thailand’s proposed “land bridge” linking the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand has regained attention amid tensions over shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca. The project, which would create a 90-kilometre road and rail corridor between Ranong and Chumphon provinces, is being promoted as a way to strengthen Thailand’s geostrategic role and boost its weak economy. Get today's headlines by email The renewed focus followed comments by Singaporean Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing during a visit to Thailand late last month, when he expressed interest in the project. His remarks came shortly after Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa suggested vessels using the Malacca Strait could face toll charges similar to Iranian pressure tactics in the Persian Gulf. Indonesia later clarified it had no intention of imposing transit fees and would continue following international maritime law under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Singapore also did not formally follow up on Mr Chan’s remarks, but the discussion renewed debate over shipping security and alternative trade routes in Southeast Asia. The land bridge is viewed as a scaled-down alternative to the long-discussed “Kra Canal” proposal, which dates back to the 17th century. Thai governments periodically considered building a canal through the southern peninsula, similar to the Suez or Panama canals, but concerns over national security and fears of separatism in the deep South prevented progress. Former prime minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha formally shelved the canal proposal by 2018 and replaced it with the land bridge concept. The project later became associated with governments linked to the transport ministry, the construction sector and the Chidchob family. The current coalition government led by the Bhumjaithai Party under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is promoting the project as part of efforts to revive Thailand’s economy, which is growing at below 2% annually. The government has also proposed a wider “southern economic corridor” focused on trade, investment, tourism and links to China’s rail network connecting Kunming in Yunnan with Vientiane in Laos and eventually Bangkok. Experts Pavida Pananond of Thammasat Business School and Thitinan Pongsudhirak of Chulalongkorn University questioned whether the project could attract enough shipping demand to justify its estimated cost of more than US$30 billion. They argued that shipping operators prioritise cost, reliability and efficiency, while transferring cargo containers across nearly 100 kilometres of land would add extra handling and expense. The experts also noted that the Strait of Malacca carries not only container cargo but also tankers, bulk carriers and gas carriers that cannot easily use a road and rail corridor. They said the project has drawn more interest from property developers and investors seeking Special Economic Zone incentives than from major shipping companies. The Bangkokpost reported that civil society groups are expected to oppose the project over environmental and social concerns, while the opposition People’s Party is likely to scrutinise costs, feasibility and potential graft allegations. Completion is not expected before the mid-2030s due to feasibility studies, environmental assessments and bidding processes. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 17 May 2026 View full articleSat, 16 May 2026 22:06:16 +0000Incorrect. Terrorism is not unique to political belief.Sat, 16 May 2026 22:04:57 +0000Brits can't play sport.Sat, 16 May 2026 22:03:31 +0000Tens of thousands of demonstrators took part in two separate protests in London on Saturday, prompting one of the largest policing operations in the capital in recent years. Get today's headlines by email The rival events included the “Unite the Kingdom” march organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson and a pro-Palestinian rally marking Nakba Day. More than 4,000 officers from the Metropolitan Police were deployed across central London to maintain separation between the two crowds. Authorities established a so-called “sterile zone” between the marches, using barriers and strict route controls to prevent contact between participants. Police said 43 arrests were made in connection with the demonstrations by 19:30 BST. A further 22 arrests occurred at the FA Cup Final, which was taking place simultaneously at Wembley Stadium. The force described the operation as one of its most significant public-order deployments in recent years, with officers supported by drones, mounted units, police dogs and armoured vehicles. Unite the Kingdom rallyParticipants in the Unite the Kingdom march gathered in Kingsway before proceeding to Whitehall and Parliament Square, where a rally was held. Many demonstrators carried Union flags, and some wore red hats bearing the slogan “Make England Great Again”. Chants calling for the removal of Prime Minister Keir Starmer were also heard. Speakers at the rally included Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, along with media personality Katie Hopkins, actor-turned-politician Laurence Fox and television presenter Ant Middleton. Robinson urged supporters to engage in politics ahead of the next general election, calling on them to register to vote and join political parties. He also led chants backing technology entrepreneur Elon Musk, who has previously voiced support for the group’s rallies. One speaker, Siobhan Whyte, addressed the crowd about the killing of her daughter, Rhiannon, criticising the government’s response to the case. Pro-Palestinian Nakba Day marchA separate pro-Palestinian demonstration began in Kensington and moved through Piccadilly towards Waterloo Place. The march marked Nakba Day, which commemorates the displacement of Palestinians during the conflict surrounding the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948–49. Many protesters wore keffiyehs and carried placards expressing solidarity with Palestinians. Signs included slogans opposing the far right and calling for the release of hostages. Speakers at the rally included Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, co-founders of the political group Your Party, as well as independent MP Diane Abbott and Labour MP Apsana Begum. Abbott told demonstrators they faced a “common enemy” in the far right and urged supporters to unite against racism and antisemitism. Several protesters told the BBC they opposed both antisemitism and violence, saying such behaviour had no place at the rally. Policing and security measuresStrict limits were placed on routes and timing for both demonstrations. Police said the Nakba march concluded around 17:30 BST, while the Unite the Kingdom event ended at about 18:00. By that time, authorities reported that Parliament Square and Whitehall were largely cleared. The Met said the protests had “proceeded largely without significant incident”. Four officers were assaulted during the operation, although none were seriously injured, while six others were subjected to hate-crime offences, police said. Live facial recognition technology was used for the first time in a protest-related policing operation, with cameras deployed at Euston Station and King's Cross St Pancras Station. Drones also monitored both protest routes. The government said 11 foreign “far-right agitators” were prevented from entering the UK ahead of the Unite the Kingdom rally. Among them was US-based influencer Valentina Gomez. Ahead of the protests, Starmer said authorities would take action against anyone seeking to incite hatred or violence. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the right to protest remained a fundamental part of democracy, but warned that those spreading hate or committing violence would face legal consequences. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 17 May 2026 View full articleSat, 16 May 2026 22:03:24 +0000Ya no this isn't going to happen.Sat, 16 May 2026 22:00:17 +0000What happened to the 130% King of Tariffs ?Sat, 16 May 2026 22:00:03 +0000All those immigrants at the top of British football. :-)Sat, 16 May 2026 21:58:38 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chinese-fugitive-arrested-in-yala-r1819/A Chinese national wanted for alleged financial crimes in China has been arrested in Betong district, Yala province, after reportedly hiding in Thailand for more than a decade. Get today's headlines by email The arrest took place on 16 May after officers from the Crime Suppression Division tracked down Mr He Zhanpeng, 61, at Suan Muen Buppha Betong in Tano Maero subdistrict, Betong district. Police said he had been living in Thailand while evading Chinese authorities. The operation was ordered by Pol Maj Gen Pattanasak Bubphasuwan, commander of the Crime Suppression Division. The arrest team was led by Pol Col Anusorn Thongsai, superintendent of Sub-Division 6, and Pol Lt Col Kiettisak Boonthong, inspector of Sub-Division 6. Mr He was detained under Section 12(7) of the Immigration Act BE 2522, which bars entry or residence for individuals believed to pose a danger to society, public safety, national security, or who are subject to arrest warrants issued by foreign governments. According to Thai police, authorities in Foshan, Guangdong province, China, had requested assistance in locating Mr He. Chinese officials alleged that he was involved in a bank credit card fraud case linked to the Agricultural Bank of China and had been wanted for more than 12 years. Investigators were informed that the suspect had fled China and was hiding in Yala province. Officers then launched surveillance and intelligence-gathering operations in the area before locating him while he was reportedly walking in the public garden area in Betong. Police said Mr He had been posing as a tourist in an attempt to avoid detection. After confirming his identity, officers moved in and took him into custody without incident. Following the arrest, Mr He was transferred to Betong Immigration Checkpoint in Yala province. Authorities said he would be deported from Thailand and returned to the People’s Republic of China to face legal proceedings. The case highlights ongoing cooperation between Thai and Chinese law enforcement agencies in tracking foreign fugitives believed to be hiding in Thailand. Officials have not released further details about the alleged fraud case or whether additional suspects are being sought. Thaitabloid reported that authorities have not announced any further charges in Thailand beyond the immigration-related detention. Chinese authorities are expected to continue legal action against Mr He upon his return. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 17 May 2026Sat, 16 May 2026 21:56:01 +0000A Chinese national wanted for alleged financial crimes in China has been arrested in Betong district, Yala province, after reportedly hiding in Thailand for more than a decade. Get today's headlines by email The arrest took place on 16 May after officers from the Crime Suppression Division tracked down Mr He Zhanpeng, 61, at Suan Muen Buppha Betong in Tano Maero subdistrict, Betong district. Police said he had been living in Thailand while evading Chinese authorities. The operation was ordered by Pol Maj Gen Pattanasak Bubphasuwan, commander of the Crime Suppression Division. The arrest team was led by Pol Col Anusorn Thongsai, superintendent of Sub-Division 6, and Pol Lt Col Kiettisak Boonthong, inspector of Sub-Division 6. Mr He was detained under Section 12(7) of the Immigration Act BE 2522, which bars entry or residence for individuals believed to pose a danger to society, public safety, national security, or who are subject to arrest warrants issued by foreign governments. According to Thai police, authorities in Foshan, Guangdong province, China, had requested assistance in locating Mr He. Chinese officials alleged that he was involved in a bank credit card fraud case linked to the Agricultural Bank of China and had been wanted for more than 12 years. Investigators were informed that the suspect had fled China and was hiding in Yala province. Officers then launched surveillance and intelligence-gathering operations in the area before locating him while he was reportedly walking in the public garden area in Betong. Police said Mr He had been posing as a tourist in an attempt to avoid detection. After confirming his identity, officers moved in and took him into custody without incident. Following the arrest, Mr He was transferred to Betong Immigration Checkpoint in Yala province. Authorities said he would be deported from Thailand and returned to the People’s Republic of China to face legal proceedings. The case highlights ongoing cooperation between Thai and Chinese law enforcement agencies in tracking foreign fugitives believed to be hiding in Thailand. Officials have not released further details about the alleged fraud case or whether additional suspects are being sought. Thaitabloid reported that authorities have not announced any further charges in Thailand beyond the immigration-related detention. Chinese authorities are expected to continue legal action against Mr He upon his return. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 17 May 2026 View full articleSat, 16 May 2026 21:56:01 +0000Sat, 16 May 2026 21:53:41 +0000If you merge 8 football clubs you get chaos.Sat, 16 May 2026 21:53:19 +0000