https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around ThailandenIt depends. 2 questions first. 1 unlimited supply of cialis? 2 will you be my pimp ?Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:58:40 +0000But it's only the white swans which get in to trouble. Two tier innit. Black swans can do what they like and it'll be covered up, but if a white swan so much as pecks at someone Keir Starmer will personally wrestle them to the ground and execute them. Fascist swan hating traitor that he is.Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:50:22 +0000Cambodia is a 4th world hell scape. The average height there is like 5'2 (probably same as this forum short fat grandpas), age of consent is like 12, its crawling with scam centers that prey on elderly around the world, one of the lowest iqs on earth, massive wealth disparity, corruption, abject poverty. Let's hold off on letting them manage any more land! Maybe try not being literally the worst country on earth first.Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:47:54 +0000Following on from one of my previous topics, I found myself wondering about this question from the other side. Could you actually do the job yourself? But before anyone starts saddling up their moral high horse, that is not what I am talking about. I mean practically. A lot of people look at sex work and see easy money. They see somebody earning in a night what another person might earn in a week or even a month or two. From the outside it can look like a very favorable arrangement. But I have always thought that depends entirely on whether you could actually tolerate the work itself. Personally, I could not. Not because of morality, social stigma or because I think there is anything wrong with people who choose to do it. I simply cannot imagine forcing myself to be physically intimate with people I found completely unappealing, maybe even physically revolting, purely because money was involved. In fact, the more I think about it, the less appealing the whole idea sounds. Imagine having to wake up every morning knowing that later that day you may have to spend hours with some stranger pretending to be interested in somebody you would never voluntarily spend ten minutes with under normal circumstances, let alone take your clothes off and let them interact with you sexually. Not only interested. Interested, attentive, charming, patient, and enthusiastic. That sounds less like easy money and more like an acting career with unusually demanding performance reviews, but actually it's a lot worse. Whenever people describe sex work as easy money, I find myself wondering whether they are focusing entirely on the money part and not enough on the work part. Because if the job was genuinely that easy, a lot more people would be doing it. Perhaps that is the real dividing line. Some people look at the financial reward and think the sacrifice is worth it. Others look at the sacrifice and decide no amount of money would make it worthwhile. As for me, I cannot even pretend to enjoy small talk with people I dislike. So the idea of taking the concept significantly further for financial reasons sounds utterly exhausting.Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:40:59 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/oncb-warns-of-pink-cocaine-threat-in-thailand-r2414/Thailand’s Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has issued an official warning about the spread of a new synthetic drug known as 2C-B (2C-Bromine), commonly referred to as “pink cocaine”. Authorities say the substance is gaining attention among some nightlife and drug-using groups despite posing serious risks to both physical and mental health. Get today's headlines by email On 20 June, Ms Areepak Ngernbamrung, Deputy Secretary-General and spokesperson for the ONCB, said the agency is concerned about the growing presence of 2C-B. Although it is marketed as pink cocaine, she stressed that the drug is not cocaine but a synthetic psychoactive substance with potentially severe effects on users. According to the ONCB, 2C-B acts as both a stimulant and a hallucinogen, producing effects similar to LSD and ecstasy. Users may experience euphoria, unusual alertness, hallucinations, distorted perception, impaired judgement and reduced self-control. These effects can increase the likelihood of risky behaviour and may endanger both the user and others. The agency warned that prolonged use can damage the brain, leading to irritability and chronic hallucinations. Excessive consumption can be fatal. The ONCB also highlighted concerns raised during the recent International Symposium of Forensic Drug Testing Lab Directors, where experts reported that 2C-B and substances sold as pink cocaine are often distributed as complex drug mixtures. The drug is commonly sold in powder, tablet or capsule form and is increasingly mixed with other substances such as ketamine, cocaine or benzodiazepines. These mixtures are sometimes marketed as “Happy Water”, significantly increasing the risk of overdose and unpredictable reactions. Health risks associated with high doses of 2C-B or its use alongside other drugs include irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, dangerously elevated body temperature, seizures and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, users may suffer sudden heart failure. The ONCB also warned that mixing the substance with the painkiller tramadol can cause respiratory depression, which may lead to immediate death because users often do not know the true composition or quantity of the substances they consume. The spokesperson noted that 2C-B is classified as a Category 1 narcotic under Thai law. Anyone who produces, imports, exports, distributes or possesses the substance without authorisation faces legal penalties. The ONCB urged the public, particularly young people, not to be misled by claims that pink cocaine is safe or harmless. The agency warned that synthetic drugs can have serious consequences for health, finances, future prospects and life itself. Daily News reported that authorities are expected to continue monitoring the spread of 2C-B and related synthetic drugs. Members of the public with information about illegal drug trafficking are encouraged to contact the ONCB hotline 1386, available 24 hours a day. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 21 June 2026Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:36:36 +0000Thailand’s Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has issued an official warning about the spread of a new synthetic drug known as 2C-B (2C-Bromine), commonly referred to as “pink cocaine”. Authorities say the substance is gaining attention among some nightlife and drug-using groups despite posing serious risks to both physical and mental health. Get today's headlines by email On 20 June, Ms Areepak Ngernbamrung, Deputy Secretary-General and spokesperson for the ONCB, said the agency is concerned about the growing presence of 2C-B. Although it is marketed as pink cocaine, she stressed that the drug is not cocaine but a synthetic psychoactive substance with potentially severe effects on users. According to the ONCB, 2C-B acts as both a stimulant and a hallucinogen, producing effects similar to LSD and ecstasy. Users may experience euphoria, unusual alertness, hallucinations, distorted perception, impaired judgement and reduced self-control. These effects can increase the likelihood of risky behaviour and may endanger both the user and others. The agency warned that prolonged use can damage the brain, leading to irritability and chronic hallucinations. Excessive consumption can be fatal. The ONCB also highlighted concerns raised during the recent International Symposium of Forensic Drug Testing Lab Directors, where experts reported that 2C-B and substances sold as pink cocaine are often distributed as complex drug mixtures. The drug is commonly sold in powder, tablet or capsule form and is increasingly mixed with other substances such as ketamine, cocaine or benzodiazepines. These mixtures are sometimes marketed as “Happy Water”, significantly increasing the risk of overdose and unpredictable reactions. Health risks associated with high doses of 2C-B or its use alongside other drugs include irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, dangerously elevated body temperature, seizures and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, users may suffer sudden heart failure. The ONCB also warned that mixing the substance with the painkiller tramadol can cause respiratory depression, which may lead to immediate death because users often do not know the true composition or quantity of the substances they consume. The spokesperson noted that 2C-B is classified as a Category 1 narcotic under Thai law. Anyone who produces, imports, exports, distributes or possesses the substance without authorisation faces legal penalties. The ONCB urged the public, particularly young people, not to be misled by claims that pink cocaine is safe or harmless. The agency warned that synthetic drugs can have serious consequences for health, finances, future prospects and life itself. Daily News reported that authorities are expected to continue monitoring the spread of 2C-B and related synthetic drugs. Members of the public with information about illegal drug trafficking are encouraged to contact the ONCB hotline 1386, available 24 hours a day. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 21 June 2026 View full articleSat, 20 Jun 2026 20:36:36 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/wild-elephant-kills-mushroom-forager-in-buriram-forest-r2413/A 58-year-old man was found dead in Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary in Buriram province after apparently being attacked by a wild elephant while foraging for mushrooms in the forest. The victim, identified as Phaitoon Samniang, was discovered on 20 June 2026 in a remote forest area near Nong Bon village in Lam Nang Rong subdistrict, Non Din Daeng district. Get today's headlines by email Police from Non Din Daeng Police Station responded after villagers searching for mushrooms reported finding a body in the forest. The location was approximately 3 kilometres from the village and 2 kilometres into the woodland. Officers and rescue workers found the victim lying face down on a mound of earth. The body had significantly decomposed. A shoulder bag and a head torch were found nearby. Investigators also found extensive elephant footprints around the scene, with the surrounding ground appearing heavily trampled. Authorities believe the man had been dead for at least three to four days before being discovered. According to the investigation, Phaitoon, aged 58, lived in Nong Bon village, Lam Nang Rong subdistrict, Non Din Daeng district, Buriram. Family members said he was not married and had no children and regularly stayed overnight at a cassava field near the village. He was also known to enter the forest frequently to collect wild produce and mushrooms for food and additional income. His sister, 44-year-old Uea-aree Tunhasing, told authorities that her brother routinely gathered forest products and mushrooms. She believes he may have encountered wild elephants while collecting mushrooms at night. She said it was possible the elephants were startled by his presence and chased him. Investigators suspect he was unable to escape and was fatally attacked. The forest area where the incident occurred is known to be inhabited by a herd of nearly 50 wild elephants that regularly forage in the vicinity. SiamRath reported that authorities documented the circumstances surrounding the death and continue to examine the evidence found at the scene. Pictures courtesy of SaimRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Siamrath 21 June 2026Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:27:03 +0000A 58-year-old man was found dead in Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary in Buriram province after apparently being attacked by a wild elephant while foraging for mushrooms in the forest. The victim, identified as Phaitoon Samniang, was discovered on 20 June 2026 in a remote forest area near Nong Bon village in Lam Nang Rong subdistrict, Non Din Daeng district. Get today's headlines by email Police from Non Din Daeng Police Station responded after villagers searching for mushrooms reported finding a body in the forest. The location was approximately 3 kilometres from the village and 2 kilometres into the woodland. Officers and rescue workers found the victim lying face down on a mound of earth. The body had significantly decomposed. A shoulder bag and a head torch were found nearby. Investigators also found extensive elephant footprints around the scene, with the surrounding ground appearing heavily trampled. Authorities believe the man had been dead for at least three to four days before being discovered. According to the investigation, Phaitoon, aged 58, lived in Nong Bon village, Lam Nang Rong subdistrict, Non Din Daeng district, Buriram. Family members said he was not married and had no children and regularly stayed overnight at a cassava field near the village. He was also known to enter the forest frequently to collect wild produce and mushrooms for food and additional income. His sister, 44-year-old Uea-aree Tunhasing, told authorities that her brother routinely gathered forest products and mushrooms. She believes he may have encountered wild elephants while collecting mushrooms at night. She said it was possible the elephants were startled by his presence and chased him. Investigators suspect he was unable to escape and was fatally attacked. The forest area where the incident occurred is known to be inhabited by a herd of nearly 50 wild elephants that regularly forage in the vicinity. SiamRath reported that authorities documented the circumstances surrounding the death and continue to examine the evidence found at the scene. Pictures courtesy of SaimRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Siamrath 21 June 2026 View full articleSat, 20 Jun 2026 20:27:03 +0000The reason immigration will give when rejecting the first extension based on international transfers, is they say the transfers must have occurred while you were under non-immigrant status. So unless you were already in Thailand on an extension based on some type of non-immigrant status, they would not accept the monthly transfers. So the normal route is using 800,000 the first year, and then making the transfers during that year (during your retirement extension period) so they all occur while you are under non-immigrant status. Is there anything that actually says this is required? Not that I've ever seen, but you won't get away with starting off using the monthly transfer method. Also, your plan of using an agent and then switching to monthly income also will not work. One of the requirements for the 2nd year and onwards is a 12 month bank statement, so they can retroactively check that you met the previous year's requirements. Those requirements state you kept 800,000 in the bank for 3 months after your extension was granted, and then never let your balance drop below 400,000 baht after that. When you go to show them the statements of bank transfers, but they see you did not meet the previous year's requirements, they will reject your application for an extension. At that point the only option is using an agent again, or leaving Thailand and purchasing a new non-O visa and starting over. This is how people get stuck using an agent year after year, because they cannot show they met the previous year's requirements.Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:25:07 +0000Is someone raping swans - probably black swans ? They are wronguns - owned by the King as well.Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:22:37 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-30bn-land-bridge-plan-to-challenge-malacca-strait-r2412/Thailand’s US$30 billion Land Bridge project, aiming to create a coast-to-coast logistics corridor linking Chumphon on the Gulf of Thailand with Ranong on the Andaman Sea. The project is intended to provide shippers with an alternative route to the congested Strait of Malacca, one of the world’s busiest maritime trade passages. Get today's headlines by email The plan has regained momentum under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s government following the war in Iran and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz, events that highlighted the vulnerability of global trade routes to strategic maritime chokepoints. The proposed 1-trillion-baht corridor would connect two new deep-sea ports through rail, highway and logistics infrastructure across southern Thailand. According to a government presentation, the project could reduce logistics costs by nearly 30% and cut transit times by up to 14 days for cargo travelling between southern China and ports in the Indian Ocean serving South Asia and the Middle East. A 90-kilometre standard-gauge railway between the ports would form the core of the project, with capacity to handle up to 20 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent unit)annually. A separate metre-gauge railway would link the corridor to Thailand’s existing rail network. Thai officials have stressed that the Land Bridge is not intended to replace the Strait of Malacca but to capture part of the regional trans-shipment and feeder cargo market. Jiraroth Sukolrat, director-general of the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, said Thailand was targeting feeder vessels with capacities of 12,000 TEUs or less. Government estimates indicate feeder-to-feeder cargo movements could be around 10% cheaper and six days faster than comparable routes through Singapore. Analysts remain cautious about the project’s long-term viability. Eugene Mark of Singapore’s ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute said the scheme may ultimately prove more valuable as a strategic national transport corridor than as a direct competitor to Malacca. Independent researcher Wipawadee Panyangnoi noted that while the project has been repackaged to focus on ports, railways and light industry, its core concept remains largely unchanged from earlier proposals. Investor interest has been restrained by the project’s high cost, evolving policy framework and geopolitical sensitivities. Thai authorities have stated that the government would primarily act as regulator and facilitator, with funding expected to come from private-sector consortiums involving shipping lines, port operators, financiers and land developers. Local communities have also voiced concerns about potential impacts on livelihoods, marine ecosystems and agricultural land. Reuters reported that fishing and farming groups along the proposed corridor fear disruption to established industries. In Ranong, fisherman Chaiyaporn Arunrasamee expressed concern about development in areas where residents depend on fishing, while coffee entrepreneur Chalermchart Seekhiao questioned the need for large-scale industrialisation in Chumphon’s productive Phato district. The Nation reported that the project recently faced another obstacle after regulators ordered a new Environmental and Health Impact Assessment due to significant differences between government and private-sector estimates of marine life density near the proposed ports. A government-appointed panel is reviewing the project and previous impact assessment reports, with findings expected before the end of July. The results will be closely watched by investors, local communities and neighbouring countries as Thailand considers whether the Land Bridge can become a major logistics asset. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 21 June 2026Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:21:08 +0000Thailand’s US$30 billion Land Bridge project, aiming to create a coast-to-coast logistics corridor linking Chumphon on the Gulf of Thailand with Ranong on the Andaman Sea. The project is intended to provide shippers with an alternative route to the congested Strait of Malacca, one of the world’s busiest maritime trade passages. Get today's headlines by email The plan has regained momentum under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s government following the war in Iran and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz, events that highlighted the vulnerability of global trade routes to strategic maritime chokepoints. The proposed 1-trillion-baht corridor would connect two new deep-sea ports through rail, highway and logistics infrastructure across southern Thailand. According to a government presentation, the project could reduce logistics costs by nearly 30% and cut transit times by up to 14 days for cargo travelling between southern China and ports in the Indian Ocean serving South Asia and the Middle East. A 90-kilometre standard-gauge railway between the ports would form the core of the project, with capacity to handle up to 20 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent unit)annually. A separate metre-gauge railway would link the corridor to Thailand’s existing rail network. Thai officials have stressed that the Land Bridge is not intended to replace the Strait of Malacca but to capture part of the regional trans-shipment and feeder cargo market. Jiraroth Sukolrat, director-general of the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, said Thailand was targeting feeder vessels with capacities of 12,000 TEUs or less. Government estimates indicate feeder-to-feeder cargo movements could be around 10% cheaper and six days faster than comparable routes through Singapore. Analysts remain cautious about the project’s long-term viability. Eugene Mark of Singapore’s ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute said the scheme may ultimately prove more valuable as a strategic national transport corridor than as a direct competitor to Malacca. Independent researcher Wipawadee Panyangnoi noted that while the project has been repackaged to focus on ports, railways and light industry, its core concept remains largely unchanged from earlier proposals. Investor interest has been restrained by the project’s high cost, evolving policy framework and geopolitical sensitivities. Thai authorities have stated that the government would primarily act as regulator and facilitator, with funding expected to come from private-sector consortiums involving shipping lines, port operators, financiers and land developers. Local communities have also voiced concerns about potential impacts on livelihoods, marine ecosystems and agricultural land. Reuters reported that fishing and farming groups along the proposed corridor fear disruption to established industries. In Ranong, fisherman Chaiyaporn Arunrasamee expressed concern about development in areas where residents depend on fishing, while coffee entrepreneur Chalermchart Seekhiao questioned the need for large-scale industrialisation in Chumphon’s productive Phato district. The Nation reported that the project recently faced another obstacle after regulators ordered a new Environmental and Health Impact Assessment due to significant differences between government and private-sector estimates of marine life density near the proposed ports. A government-appointed panel is reviewing the project and previous impact assessment reports, with findings expected before the end of July. The results will be closely watched by investors, local communities and neighbouring countries as Thailand considers whether the Land Bridge can become a major logistics asset. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 21 June 2026 View full articleSat, 20 Jun 2026 20:21:08 +0000In the town of Prachuap there was a shop keeper who would approach tourists and say "You're too fat!" That was just about the extent of his English, I think he was ethnic Chinese, and kind of portly himself. He was trying to sell some sort of herbal tea. This was well over ten years ago, and the place didn't get many foreign tourists. But nothing beat lying on the beach at Hua Hin (do they still let the horses crap on the beach there?) and have Indians/Pakistanis/Nepalis come around saying "soot? soot?"Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:20:14 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/airports-raise-international-departure-charge-in-thailand-r2411/Thailand has increased the Passenger Service Charge (PSC) for international departing passengers from 20 June 2026, raising the fee by 390 baht from 730 baht to 1,120 baht per person. The higher charge applies to passengers travelling on international flights from six major airports across the country. Get today's headlines by email The airports affected by the increase are Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang Airport, Chiang Mai Airport, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai Airport, Phuket Airport and Hat Yai Airport. The revised charge came into effect on 20 June 2026. The Passenger Service Charge is already included in the price of airline tickets, meaning travellers will not be required to pay the fee separately at the airport. The increase applies only to international departures. Domestic travellers are unaffected by the change. The Passenger Service Charge for domestic flights remains unchanged at 130 baht per person. The revised fee structure takes effect immediately and applies to eligible departures from the six airports covered by the policy. Airlines and airport operators have already incorporated the charge into ticket pricing. Komchadluek reported that passengers planning international travel through the affected airports should be aware that the higher Passenger Service Charge is now in force. Picture courtesy of Komchadluek Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 21 June 2026Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:12:53 +0000Thailand has increased the Passenger Service Charge (PSC) for international departing passengers from 20 June 2026, raising the fee by 390 baht from 730 baht to 1,120 baht per person. The higher charge applies to passengers travelling on international flights from six major airports across the country. Get today's headlines by email The airports affected by the increase are Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang Airport, Chiang Mai Airport, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai Airport, Phuket Airport and Hat Yai Airport. The revised charge came into effect on 20 June 2026. The Passenger Service Charge is already included in the price of airline tickets, meaning travellers will not be required to pay the fee separately at the airport. The increase applies only to international departures. Domestic travellers are unaffected by the change. The Passenger Service Charge for domestic flights remains unchanged at 130 baht per person. The revised fee structure takes effect immediately and applies to eligible departures from the six airports covered by the policy. Airlines and airport operators have already incorporated the charge into ticket pricing. Komchadluek reported that passengers planning international travel through the affected airports should be aware that the higher Passenger Service Charge is now in force. Picture courtesy of Komchadluek Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 21 June 2026 View full articleSat, 20 Jun 2026 20:12:53 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/australian-biosecurity-warns-over-thai-herbal-inhalers-r2410/Australian Biosecurity has warned travellers about a popular Thai herbal inhaler after officers detected products containing six plant species of concern at Cairns Airport. The alert highlights potential biosecurity risks and reminds passengers that even traditional herbal remedies may be subject to Australia’s strict import regulations. Get today's headlines by email The warning was issued on 20 June 2026 through the Australian Biosecurity Facebook page. The agency posted an image of a well-known Thai herbal inhaler and stated that officers had found herbal inhalation products at Cairns Airport containing six plant species considered a concern under Australia’s biosecurity framework. According to the agency, traditional herbal products can still pose biosecurity risks when brought into the country. Australian authorities routinely monitor incoming goods to prevent the introduction of pests, diseases and other biological threats that could affect agriculture, the environment and public health. The post stressed that travellers can avoid substantial penalties by declaring items upon arrival and checking import requirements before travelling. Officials advised passengers to declare such products to biosecurity officers for assessment rather than risk breaching entry regulations. The warning comes amid ongoing efforts by Australian authorities to strengthen border biosecurity controls. Products containing plant material, seeds, herbs and other organic substances may be subject to inspection, restrictions or seizure depending on their contents and compliance with import rules. Amarin reported that Australian Biosecurity is expected to continue public awareness campaigns aimed at helping travellers understand import requirements and avoid penalties. Authorities have not announced any further action regarding the specific products shown in the warning but continue to advise passengers to check regulations before travel. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 21 June 2026Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:07:43 +0000Australian Biosecurity has warned travellers about a popular Thai herbal inhaler after officers detected products containing six plant species of concern at Cairns Airport. The alert highlights potential biosecurity risks and reminds passengers that even traditional herbal remedies may be subject to Australia’s strict import regulations. Get today's headlines by email The warning was issued on 20 June 2026 through the Australian Biosecurity Facebook page. The agency posted an image of a well-known Thai herbal inhaler and stated that officers had found herbal inhalation products at Cairns Airport containing six plant species considered a concern under Australia’s biosecurity framework. According to the agency, traditional herbal products can still pose biosecurity risks when brought into the country. Australian authorities routinely monitor incoming goods to prevent the introduction of pests, diseases and other biological threats that could affect agriculture, the environment and public health. The post stressed that travellers can avoid substantial penalties by declaring items upon arrival and checking import requirements before travelling. Officials advised passengers to declare such products to biosecurity officers for assessment rather than risk breaching entry regulations. The warning comes amid ongoing efforts by Australian authorities to strengthen border biosecurity controls. Products containing plant material, seeds, herbs and other organic substances may be subject to inspection, restrictions or seizure depending on their contents and compliance with import rules. Amarin reported that Australian Biosecurity is expected to continue public awareness campaigns aimed at helping travellers understand import requirements and avoid penalties. Authorities have not announced any further action regarding the specific products shown in the warning but continue to advise passengers to check regulations before travel. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 21 June 2026 View full articleSat, 20 Jun 2026 20:07:43 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/police-seize-phuket-krabi-phang-nga-land-in-nominee-crackdown-r2409/Thai police have seized 49 rai of land worth more than THB 1.05 billion in Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga as part of the latest operation targeting alleged foreign nominee business networks. The coordinated raids on 20 June 2026 involved more than 500 officers and resulted from 59 arrest warrants, 60 search warrants and investigations into 89 land plots linked to suspected illegal ownership structures. Get today's headlines by email The operation, named “Foreign Nominee Network Crackdown Phase 3”, was ordered by Pol Gen Samran Nuanma, Deputy National Police Chief and Director of the Centre for Suppression of Transnational Crime and Illegal Immigration. Pol Lt Gen Noppasin Poolsawat led the operation alongside senior officers from Provincial Police Region 8 and other specialist units. Authorities said the investigation focused on companies suspected of using Thai nationals as nominees to hold shares on behalf of foreign investors, allowing them to control land and businesses in violation of Thai law. Across Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, investigators identified 29 companies allegedly operating as nominees and 48 companies holding land while having foreign shareholders in the majority. In Phuket, police examined 56 land plots with a combined value of about THB 231 million. Investigators identified 10 nominee companies controlling four land plots worth approximately THB 116 million, leading to 13 arrest warrants for 12 foreign nationals. Another 39 companies were found holding land while foreigners allegedly controlled more than half of the shares. Among the key targets was the G-Mat group of companies, which operates hotels, resorts, vehicle rental services, restaurants, cannabis businesses and fitness facilities. In Phang Nga, officers investigated companies linked to eight land plots. Authorities alleged that nine nominee companies controlled land worth about THB 269 million. One British national, identified only as Andrew, was arrested after investigators found that Sava Beach Villas was operating seven villas as a hotel business without the required licence. Investigators also found evidence suggesting some Thai shareholders listed on company registrations were employees or relatives of company directors who lacked the financial means to make genuine investments, indicating possible nominee arrangements. Pictures courtesy of Komchadluek In Krabi, police targeted property development and entertainment businesses. Authorities arrested 26 Thai nationals and 12 foreign nationals linked to alleged nominee structures. One major case involved Tropical House, a property development company reportedly controlled by Polish investors through Thai nominees despite being registered as a Thai-owned company. Another investigation focused on Kanj Entertainment Partnership, allegedly owned by a South African national who used Thai nominees. Police also accused a lawyer and an accountant of helping create false registration documents, including the use of signatures belonging to deceased individuals. Komchadluek reported that police seized company registration records, accounting documents, computers, mobile phones and other electronic evidence. The material is being examined as investigators expand enquiries into related networks across the country. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 21 June 2026Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:02:22 +0000Thai police have seized 49 rai of land worth more than THB 1.05 billion in Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga as part of the latest operation targeting alleged foreign nominee business networks. The coordinated raids on 20 June 2026 involved more than 500 officers and resulted from 59 arrest warrants, 60 search warrants and investigations into 89 land plots linked to suspected illegal ownership structures. Get today's headlines by email The operation, named “Foreign Nominee Network Crackdown Phase 3”, was ordered by Pol Gen Samran Nuanma, Deputy National Police Chief and Director of the Centre for Suppression of Transnational Crime and Illegal Immigration. Pol Lt Gen Noppasin Poolsawat led the operation alongside senior officers from Provincial Police Region 8 and other specialist units. Authorities said the investigation focused on companies suspected of using Thai nationals as nominees to hold shares on behalf of foreign investors, allowing them to control land and businesses in violation of Thai law. Across Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, investigators identified 29 companies allegedly operating as nominees and 48 companies holding land while having foreign shareholders in the majority. In Phuket, police examined 56 land plots with a combined value of about THB 231 million. Investigators identified 10 nominee companies controlling four land plots worth approximately THB 116 million, leading to 13 arrest warrants for 12 foreign nationals. Another 39 companies were found holding land while foreigners allegedly controlled more than half of the shares. Among the key targets was the G-Mat group of companies, which operates hotels, resorts, vehicle rental services, restaurants, cannabis businesses and fitness facilities. In Phang Nga, officers investigated companies linked to eight land plots. Authorities alleged that nine nominee companies controlled land worth about THB 269 million. One British national, identified only as Andrew, was arrested after investigators found that Sava Beach Villas was operating seven villas as a hotel business without the required licence. Investigators also found evidence suggesting some Thai shareholders listed on company registrations were employees or relatives of company directors who lacked the financial means to make genuine investments, indicating possible nominee arrangements. Pictures courtesy of Komchadluek In Krabi, police targeted property development and entertainment businesses. Authorities arrested 26 Thai nationals and 12 foreign nationals linked to alleged nominee structures. One major case involved Tropical House, a property development company reportedly controlled by Polish investors through Thai nominees despite being registered as a Thai-owned company. Another investigation focused on Kanj Entertainment Partnership, allegedly owned by a South African national who used Thai nominees. Police also accused a lawyer and an accountant of helping create false registration documents, including the use of signatures belonging to deceased individuals. Komchadluek reported that police seized company registration records, accounting documents, computers, mobile phones and other electronic evidence. The material is being examined as investigators expand enquiries into related networks across the country. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 21 June 2026 View full articleSat, 20 Jun 2026 20:02:22 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-committee-reviews-cannabis-controls-r2408/Thailand’s House Public Health Committee is reviewing the country’s cannabis policy amid growing concerns over widespread sales, legal loopholes and public health risks. The committee is considering whether cannabis should be returned to the narcotics list, a move that could have significant implications for farmers, businesses and consumers. Get today's headlines by email The review follows concerns that uncontrolled sales and unregistered cultivation have expanded since cannabis was liberalised in June 2022. A meeting chaired by Sakoltee Phattiyakul on 18 June brought together representatives from the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), medical networks, academics and civic groups campaigning against drug-related harms. The debate highlighted sharp divisions over cannabis regulation. Medical and anti-drug groups support temporarily returning cannabis to narcotics control while a dedicated cannabis law is developed. Cannabis operators and civic networks oppose the proposal, arguing it could harm farmers and businesses attempting to operate legally. Dr Tewan Thaneerat, deputy director-general of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, said concerns had continued since legalisation. He noted that the Public Health Ministry introduced three regulations in June 2025 covering research, sales, processing and exports in line with international standards. Officials are now working on a new cannabis and hemp bill alongside the FDA, the Department of Health Service Support and the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Public Health. The draft was previously submitted to the Cabinet but was not considered before Parliament was dissolved. Public hearings are expected to conclude by late July before the bill is resubmitted. Ekkapop Sittiwantana, deputy chairman of the committee from the People’s Party, said cannabis should be returned to the narcotics list until the new law is enacted. He warned that widespread unregistered cultivation and informal sales had created loopholes that could be exploited by grey businesses and called for proper registration of cannabis plants. Assoc Prof Dr Smith Srisont, representing doctors, academics and civic groups opposed to drug-related harms, also supported tighter controls. He argued that despite extracts containing more than 0.2% THC remaining classified as narcotics, cannabis availability had already created practical concerns and that narcotics control should be restored before a separate regulatory law is introduced. The FDA told the committee that most inspected cannabis products met labelling and testing standards. However, it said many sales channels remain outside the legal system, creating enforcement challenges. Cannabis operators and the Thai Cannabis Future Network argued that legal businesses face unfair competition from the black market, illegal imports and ongoing legal uncertainty. The network also raised concerns about alleged pressure linked to cannabis licensing and the cost of obtaining medical prescriptions. The Nation reported that Sakoltee concluded the meeting by directing officials to compile a list of all licensed cannabis shops in Bangkok and FDA-certified cannabis products for review. The committee will also examine cannabis-related harm and consider both public-sector proposals and the Public Health Ministry’s draft bill as lawmakers seek a balanced regulatory framework. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 21 June 2026Sat, 20 Jun 2026 19:51:07 +0000Thailand’s House Public Health Committee is reviewing the country’s cannabis policy amid growing concerns over widespread sales, legal loopholes and public health risks. The committee is considering whether cannabis should be returned to the narcotics list, a move that could have significant implications for farmers, businesses and consumers. Get today's headlines by email The review follows concerns that uncontrolled sales and unregistered cultivation have expanded since cannabis was liberalised in June 2022. A meeting chaired by Sakoltee Phattiyakul on 18 June brought together representatives from the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), medical networks, academics and civic groups campaigning against drug-related harms. The debate highlighted sharp divisions over cannabis regulation. Medical and anti-drug groups support temporarily returning cannabis to narcotics control while a dedicated cannabis law is developed. Cannabis operators and civic networks oppose the proposal, arguing it could harm farmers and businesses attempting to operate legally. Dr Tewan Thaneerat, deputy director-general of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, said concerns had continued since legalisation. He noted that the Public Health Ministry introduced three regulations in June 2025 covering research, sales, processing and exports in line with international standards. Officials are now working on a new cannabis and hemp bill alongside the FDA, the Department of Health Service Support and the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Public Health. The draft was previously submitted to the Cabinet but was not considered before Parliament was dissolved. Public hearings are expected to conclude by late July before the bill is resubmitted. Ekkapop Sittiwantana, deputy chairman of the committee from the People’s Party, said cannabis should be returned to the narcotics list until the new law is enacted. He warned that widespread unregistered cultivation and informal sales had created loopholes that could be exploited by grey businesses and called for proper registration of cannabis plants. Assoc Prof Dr Smith Srisont, representing doctors, academics and civic groups opposed to drug-related harms, also supported tighter controls. He argued that despite extracts containing more than 0.2% THC remaining classified as narcotics, cannabis availability had already created practical concerns and that narcotics control should be restored before a separate regulatory law is introduced. The FDA told the committee that most inspected cannabis products met labelling and testing standards. However, it said many sales channels remain outside the legal system, creating enforcement challenges. Cannabis operators and the Thai Cannabis Future Network argued that legal businesses face unfair competition from the black market, illegal imports and ongoing legal uncertainty. The network also raised concerns about alleged pressure linked to cannabis licensing and the cost of obtaining medical prescriptions. The Nation reported that Sakoltee concluded the meeting by directing officials to compile a list of all licensed cannabis shops in Bangkok and FDA-certified cannabis products for review. The committee will also examine cannabis-related harm and consider both public-sector proposals and the Public Health Ministry’s draft bill as lawmakers seek a balanced regulatory framework. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 21 June 2026 View full articleSat, 20 Jun 2026 19:51:07 +0000It's the swans I feel sorry for.Sat, 20 Jun 2026 19:48:26 +0000Yep, I think you have a point. Trump used anti-immigration as a huge platform, stoking his MAGA followers into believing the immigrants were rapists, drug dealers, drug smugglers, killers. He said he was going to go after the criminals. Well, today we have ICE centers filled with working people, something like 5% in detention actually have criminal records. The white nationalist groups,Proud Boys,Oath Keepers, Three Percenters MAGA Nazis were the main instigators in the January 6 riots to try and stop our nations peaceful transfer of power. So yes, the far right extremists are racists. Makes me laugh when they talk of the radical left. Calling the kettle black I think is the expression.Sat, 20 Jun 2026 19:45:35 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/american-dj-arrested-for-illegal-work-in-chiang-mai-r2407/An American man was arrested in Chiang Mai after police alleged he was working as a DJ without a valid work permit, highlighting ongoing enforcement of Thailand’s labour laws affecting foreign nationals. Get today's headlines by email The suspect, identified as Eick Alberto, 30, was detained by tourist police during an inspection of an entertainment venue on Charoen Rat Road in Muang district. The arrest took place at approximately 00:20 on Saturday, 20 June 2026. According to police, Alberto was found performing as a DJ at the venue despite not holding the work permit required under Thai law. Authorities said foreign nationals must have appropriate authorisation before undertaking employment in the country. Police charged Alberto with working as a foreigner without a permit or working beyond the scope of authorised employment. Following his arrest, he was handed over to investigators for further legal proceedings. The operation formed part of ongoing inspections by tourist police targeting illegal employment by foreign nationals. Authorities said the checks are intended to ensure compliance with Thailand’s labour regulations and employment requirements. The arrest comes amid continued enforcement efforts across the country, with officials monitoring workplaces and entertainment venues for potential violations involving foreign workers. Tourist police have stated that such inspections are conducted to identify individuals who may be working without the necessary legal documentation. Khaosod reported that the case will now proceed through the investigative process. Authorities have not announced any further charges, and the outcome will depend on the findings of investigators and subsequent legal proceedings. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 21 June 2026Sat, 20 Jun 2026 19:44:53 +0000An American man was arrested in Chiang Mai after police alleged he was working as a DJ without a valid work permit, highlighting ongoing enforcement of Thailand’s labour laws affecting foreign nationals. Get today's headlines by email The suspect, identified as Eick Alberto, 30, was detained by tourist police during an inspection of an entertainment venue on Charoen Rat Road in Muang district. The arrest took place at approximately 00:20 on Saturday, 20 June 2026. According to police, Alberto was found performing as a DJ at the venue despite not holding the work permit required under Thai law. Authorities said foreign nationals must have appropriate authorisation before undertaking employment in the country. Police charged Alberto with working as a foreigner without a permit or working beyond the scope of authorised employment. Following his arrest, he was handed over to investigators for further legal proceedings. The operation formed part of ongoing inspections by tourist police targeting illegal employment by foreign nationals. Authorities said the checks are intended to ensure compliance with Thailand’s labour regulations and employment requirements. The arrest comes amid continued enforcement efforts across the country, with officials monitoring workplaces and entertainment venues for potential violations involving foreign workers. Tourist police have stated that such inspections are conducted to identify individuals who may be working without the necessary legal documentation. Khaosod reported that the case will now proceed through the investigative process. Authorities have not announced any further charges, and the outcome will depend on the findings of investigators and subsequent legal proceedings. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 21 June 2026 View full articleSat, 20 Jun 2026 19:44:53 +0000