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Thailand News

All the latest news stories from Thailand are written in English. Fresh news and stories from around the kingdom brought to you daily.

Former MP demands action after Lat Phrao bar fire

Former MP and senator Suradet Yasawat has called for the owners of a Lat Phrao bar and relevant state officials to face criminal, civil and disciplinary action following a fire on the night of 12 July that reportedly claimed 30 lives.

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Speaking on 14 July, Suradet, a former deputy leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, offered condolences to the families of those killed. He said the tragedy showed that authorities had not seriously addressed recurring fire-safety failures at entertainment venues.

He compared the case with the 2009 Santika Club fire and the 2022 Mountain B Club fire, saying Thailand had already had two chances to learn from similar disasters but had failed to do so.

Safety failures under scrutiny

Suradet said mass casualties in such fires commonly arise because people cannot escape in time. He cited blocked or unusable emergency exits, inadequate building structures and safety systems, sealed buildings with poor ventilation, and the absence of fire sprinklers.

He said large indoor entertainment venues of 500 square metres or more, or buildings meeting certain height conditions, are required to install sprinkler systems. Some smaller venues may be licensed as restaurants or single-storey buildings, potentially leaving them outside older building-law sprinkler requirements.
However, he argued that sprinklers or equivalent automatic fire-suppression systems were essential because venues face risks from ceilings, combustible materials, alcohol and delayed evacuation.

The former MP also questioned why circuit breakers did not operate in the event of an electrical short circuit, and whether construction materials met safety standards.

For foreign residents and visitors, the case is a reminder that venue licensing does not necessarily indicate that an entertainment site meets every modern fire-safety expectation.

People going out in Bangkok or elsewhere in Thailand may wish to note visible exits and avoid overcrowded venues, particularly those with enclosed interiors.

Calls for owners and officials to be investigated

Suradet said operators must ensure their businesses meet safety standards, but claimed that some venues had been allowed to operate despite shortcomings. He called for scrutiny of officials involved in issuing licences and carrying out inspections, including whether improper benefits had been involved.

He said accountability should not end with limited compensation, adding that the value of every life could not be measured.
According to Suradet, owners or operators could potentially face charges including negligence causing death, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to 200,000 baht; negligence causing serious injury, carrying up to three years in prison or a 60,000-baht fine, or both; and negligent fire causing danger to life or property, carrying up to seven years in prison or a 140,000-baht fine, or both.

He said the local district office director and relevant staff should be investigated under building-control laws, while local police could also face scrutiny under Section 157 of the Criminal Code if they were found to have neglected their duties.

Suradet said enforcement must apply nationwide, not only in Bangkok, and urged provincial governors, district chiefs and police commanders to inspect entertainment venues more rigorously.


Picture courtesy of Amarin

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15 July 2026
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Kuwaiti Tourists Allege Cash Fine Racket in Pattaya

Kuwaiti tourists have alleged that uniformed police officers in Pattaya repeatedly demanded cash traffic fines of 2,500 to 5,000 baht away from police stations, issuing receipts they were later told were fake.

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The group made their complaint to local reporters on the evening of 14 July, after spending the past month holidaying in Pattaya. They supplied video said to have been secretly recorded during negotiations, along with cash-receipt slips they said were handed to them.

Tourists accept offences but question the process

Speaking through an interpreter, the visitors said they understood Thailand's laws, including rules for riding motorcycles, and accepted that they should face lawful action for genuine traffic offences. Thailandreal estate

However, they said the enforcement process was unclear. They alleged that they were stopped between two and five times on some nights, usually after midnight, and were each asked to pay fines ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 baht.

According to the tourists, officers took them to secluded locations rather than allowing them to pay at a police station. They claimed an unidentified man collected the money while officers stood nearby, and that cash was the only payment method accepted.
They said they were warned that their motorcycles could be seized if they did not pay.

Receipts said to resemble shop slips

The group said they asked to settle fines at a police station but were firmly refused. They were also allegedly not permitted to pay at an impound area somewhere in Pattaya, although they said they could not remember its location.

They claimed they were told they would have to pay towing and storage charges in cash. If they wanted a receipt, they said, an additional 500 baht was demanded.



The receipts they received allegedly resembled those issued by small shops, although they listed the alleged offence and fine amount. When the visitors later showed the slips to other officers, they said they were told the documents were fake.

They further alleged that, after a minor collision in which some fell from their motorcycles, two or three members of the same group of officers again took them away and imposed fines in a similar manner, despite the tourists saying they did not know what offence they had committed.

Call for police inquiry

The visitors said they had travelled to Pattaya many times and had previously considered the city safe because of its policing against crime. This year, they said they had become more afraid of police than criminals.

For foreign visitors and expatriates, the complaint is a reminder to ask for clear details of any alleged offence and official payment procedure. Anyone facing a traffic fine should seek to pay through recognised official channels and retain all documentation, particularly if a cash-only demand or an unofficial-looking receipt raises concerns.

The tourists said they wanted senior local and national police commanders to investigate the allegations, establish the facts and take firm action if wrongdoing is found. They said they did not want Pattaya's image as a tourist destination damaged.


Pictures courtesy of SiamChon

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15 July 2026
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Chiang Mai Karaoke Refunds Brits 150,000 Baht

A Chiang Mai karaoke venue has refunded almost 150,000 baht to two British nationals after they complained to police about a series of charges following a night out.

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The venue's owner agreed to return the full amount after online criticism, according to the latest report. The business had maintained that the men were charged for services actually used and at its stated rates.

The complaint was made by the wife of one of the men and their lawyer. Police at Chiang Mai City Police Station arranged further questioning and talks between the parties shortly after midnight on 13 July 2026, before the refund was made.

How the disputed bill arose

The case dates back to 28 June, when a British man living with his wife in Hang Dong district took a British friend for food and drinks in the Nimmanhemin area. They later went to a karaoke venue at Chiang Mai's old city moat.


Picture courtesy of Manager Online

The wife said both men were heavily intoxicated. She said they initially used the venue and paid less than 1,000 baht, but staff encouraged them to stay when they tried to leave.

According to her account, her husband threatened he would call police before they were finally able to leave. The pair then took a tuk-tuk to drop the friend at his hotel, with the driver meant to take her husband home to Hang Dong.

She alleged, however, that the driver took him back to the same karaoke venue while he was so drunk he was barely conscious.

The following day, the couple found several charges of more than 120,000 baht on the husband's credit card and about 26,000 baht on another account belonging to his wife.

They said financial institutions had indicated there were several transactions within a short period. Some transactions reportedly involved some transfers to a PromptPay account held in an individual's name rather than the venue's name.

Venue disputes the allegation

The karaoke business told investigators that the two tourists had used its services and invited a large number of female staff to drink at their table. It said the charge was 700 baht per person per hour, over around four to five hours.

The complainants questioned why multiple charges of differing amounts had been made rather than one normal payment. They also raised concerns that the husband's card, which they said had a 50,000-baht limit, was charged above that amount, and that the wife's card was also used.

They have asked police to examine the tuk-tuk driver's role, citing mobile phone route data which they said showed the vehicle travelling around several parts of the city before returning to the karaoke venue.

Investigators are still gathering statements, banking records and other evidence to determine whether legal action is warranted.

For foreign residents and visitors, the case underlines the importance of checking card transactions promptly after a night out, particularly where alcohol is involved. The report also said members of the public want police and local authorities to check whether karaoke venues have the required operating licences, amid concern that inflated prices could damage Chiang Mai's reputation.


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15 July 2026
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Pattaya Sex Video in Park Prompts Investigation

A video allegedly showing a couple having sex in a Pattaya public park has circulated on Thai social media, prompting an investigation and calls for tighter overnight security.

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The footage, shared on July 14, was reportedly recorded at Chaloem Phrakiat Public Park on Khao Phra Tamnak, a well-known exercise and recreation area used by residents and tourists.

Reporters who visited the park later confirmed that the location shown was a stone picnic table within the grounds. The video appears to show a man in a white shirt and a woman in a red top engaging in sexual activity at the table.

Guard saw man at the table

Winai, a park security guard, said he was patrolling the area between 3.20am and 3.30am when he saw a man sitting alone at one of the tables.

The man appeared to Winai to be from the Middle East, but he said he did not see a woman and had no reason at the time to suspect anything unusual.

Shortly afterwards, another man told Winai he had seen a couple carrying out a sexual act at the same location. Winai said he initially doubted the claim, until a colleague showed him the video circulating online and he recognised the table he had just checked.

He said he had never expected anyone to have sex in the park, although guards had previously encountered couples and people loitering in more secluded areas.

Calls for cameras and night patrols

The video has led to online calls for officials to increase patrols after dark and install more CCTV cameras in secluded parts of the park. Users have also urged authorities to identify those shown and consider legal action.

Officials are continuing to investigate. The identities and nationalities of the people in the footage have not been confirmed.

For foreign residents and visitors in Pattaya, the case is a reminder that conduct in public spaces can quickly attract attention from security staff, police and social media users. There is currently no confirmed evidence that either person in the footage is a foreign national, despite the guard's initial description of the man he saw.

Chaloem Phrakiat Public Park is popular with walkers, runners and visitors during the day, while its quieter areas can be less visible overnight. The calls for additional cameras and patrols may therefore affect how the park is monitored after dark if officials act on them.

ScreenRecording_07-14-2026 16-06-52_1.mp4
Video courtesy of Facebook: อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7

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15 July 2026
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Anutin to Visit China For AI Summit & Xi Talks

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will make his first official visit to China from July 16-20, following an invitation from the Chinese government. The visit will include high-level meetings with Chinese leaders and participation in a major international conference on artificial intelligence, underlining the importance both countries place on strengthening bilateral relations.

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During the visit, Anutin will attend the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai. The event will take place from July 17-20 under the theme “Intelligent Partners, Co-create the Future”, bringing together international leaders and experts to discuss the future of AI and global governance.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to meet Anutin during the visit. Chinese Premier Li Qiang will also hold talks with the Thai Prime Minister, while Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, is expected to meet him separately.

The trip marks Anutin’s first official visit to China since taking office as Prime Minister. According to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand, the visit reflects the high importance both countries attach to the continued development of China-Thailand relations.

China described Thailand as a good neighbour, good friend, good relative and good partner. The embassy noted that last year marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, during which His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn paid a state visit to China.

The Chinese side said President Xi and His Majesty reached an important consensus on promoting the building of a China-Thailand community with a shared future, describing it as the beginning of the next “50 golden years” of bilateral relations. It added that mutual political trust has continued to grow under the strategic guidance of both countries’ leaders.

China also highlighted continued cooperation in trade and investment, the digital economy, aerospace, science, education, culture and public health despite what it described as a volatile and complex global environment. The embassy said these areas have produced fruitful achievements over recent years.

Chinese officials expressed hope that Anutin’s visit would strengthen the longstanding friendship reflected in the phrase, “China and Thailand are not far apart; we are brothers”. They said the visit would deepen comprehensive strategic cooperation, support the modernisation of both countries, and contribute to regional peace, stability, development and prosperity.

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15 July 2026
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Woman Dies in Train Collision in Chachoengsao

A 69-year-old village health volunteer was killed after her motorcycle was struck by a passenger train while crossing an unofficial railway crossing in Mueang district, Chachoengsao. The fatal crash happened on July 14 at a crossing created by local residents behind a housing estate in Moo 15, Tha Khai subdistrict, where authorities believe she did not stop to see the approaching train.

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Police from Mueang Chachoengsao Police Station were called to the scene and informed station superintendent Pol. Col. Phongsan Mee Sri. Forensic doctors from Phutthasothon Hospital and rescue workers also attended the incident.

Investigators found that the crossing had been made by local residents using concrete slabs laid over three railway tracks. The victim, identified as Ms Narisara, 69, was found dead in a grassy drainage ditch about 50 metres from the crossing. A red motorcycle helmet was found nearby, while her blue Honda Wave motorcycle, registration from Chachoengsao, lay about 10 metres away in a damaged condition with debris scattered across the area.

Rescue workers and local residents recovered both the motorcycle and the victim’s body from the ditch. A preliminary examination found she had suffered a broken neck, fractures to both arms and a large laceration to one elbow. Her body was taken to Phutthasothon Hospital for a detailed post-mortem examination.


Picture courtesy of Daily News

Phra Jitti Thanaphuttho, also known as Luang Phi Jack, aged 47, from Wat Krathum, said he arrived after being alerted by local residents and was among the first to reach the scene. Seeing the condition of the body, he removed his monk’s robe to cover the deceased out of respect. He said he had no concerns about doing so and would simply wash and continue using the robe for monastic duties.

The victim’s husband, 58-year-old Kriangsak Matmut, said his wife served as a village health volunteer. After finishing a village health volunteer meeting that afternoon, she received a telephone call from a client requesting a traditional Thai massage on the opposite side of Wat Krathum. He said she regularly used the same route and believed she may not have noticed the approaching train before attempting to cross.

Police said they will coordinate with Chachoengsao Junction railway station to question the train driver and gather evidence as part of their investigation. The case will proceed in accordance with standard procedures.

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15 July 2026
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Fire Safety Warning For Enclosed Venues in Thailand

A Thai report by The Daily News, has raised concerns about fire safety in enclosed public venues after a blaze at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao on July 12, which killed 31 people and seriously injured many others.

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The report said some victims were trapped and died in toilets after being unable to find an escape route. It argues that avoiding pubs and bars alone does not remove the risks posed by enclosed, air-conditioned premises used daily by people of all ages.

For foreigners living in or visiting Thailand, the warning is relevant well beyond nightlife. Karaoke rooms, cinemas, gyms and underground shopping areas are common parts of daily life, particularly in Bangkok and major tourist centres. Visitors may be unfamiliar with a building's layout, making it especially important to identify exits on arrival.

Four enclosed settings highlighted

The article identified coin-operated karaoke venues and music rehearsal rooms as a potential risk because soundproofing can include ordinary plastic foam rather than fire-retardant material. It said an electrical short circuit involving amplifiers or sound equipment could ignite the foam, which may melt and produce highly toxic smoke, including carbon monoxide and cyanide gases.

Cinemas and mini-theatres were also highlighted. The report described them as buildings without openings, with no external light or ventilation through windows. It said upholstered seating, fabric and thick carpets can add to a fire load, while a power failure, darkness, low-lying smoke and panic among large crowds could make escape difficult.

Indoor gyms, fitness centres and boxing camps may have thick EVA or synthetic rubber flooring designed to absorb impact. According to the report, where such material is not specially fire-resistant it can be difficult to extinguish and can produce large volumes of pungent black toxic smoke. Basement gyms were identified as a particular concern because smoke may build up in poorly ventilated areas.

The fourth category was underground shopping centres and air-conditioned underground markets. The report said narrow walkways created by sales stalls, together with accumulated flammable waste, could speed the spread of a fire and obstruct evacuation routes for children and older people.

What to check before entering

The report urges people entering enclosed venues to look for alternative exits immediately, rather than relying on lifts or the main entrance. In a fire, lifts may stop operating and main routes may be blocked by flames or crowds.

If smoke appears, it advises getting as low to the ground as possible, as smoke tends to accumulate from the ceiling downwards. It also suggests covering the mouth and nose with a damp cloth or clothing.

It specifically warns against seeking refuge in toilets. Referring to the Santika fire tragedy and the reported Lad Phrao blaze, it said deaths had been concentrated in toilets because they have no external exit and can quickly fill with toxic smoke.

The report says public concern remains over inspection standards and whether some operators cut costs on safety materials. Its central message is for customers to assess escape routes themselves before settling into an enclosed venue.

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15 July 2026
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Thailand Searches Five Targets in Nominee Probe

Thai authorities have searched five targets linked to property, hotel and wellness businesses as they broaden an investigation into suspected foreign nominee shareholding arrangements. The Department of Business Development is examining 34 companies over possible breaches of the Foreign Business Act 1999.

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Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Department of Business Development under the Ministry of Commerce, said the information had been passed to the Department of Special Investigation for further examination.

The initial searches involved Chinese- and Israeli-linked businesses. Officials are investigating the source of investment funds, who actually controlled the companies and whether Thai shareholders were genuine investors or held shares for foreign nationals.

For foreigners living, investing or operating businesses in Thailand, the case underlines the risks of using Thai nominee shareholders, particularly in restricted sectors and land-linked businesses. Authorities are also looking at advisers and others who may have helped arrange such structures.

Law firm linked to 150 companies

One principal target was law firm, identified by authorities on as P, which came under scrutiny after investigators widened an inquiry into a legal entity in Koh Samui district, Surat Thani.

The firm was found to be connected to more than 150 companies, while its address was registered as the head office for more than 103 legal entities. Authorities suspect it may have assisted or participated in shareholding arrangements intended to bypass restrictions on businesses reserved for, or restricted to, Thai nationals.

Officials said the scale of those links raised concerns that the firm may have formed part of a wider corporate-registration network.

Property, hotels and wellness businesses examined

Authorities searched a group, identified as J, suspected of using Thai nationals to hold shares for foreign investors in land acquisition and property operations. A Chinese company was identified as developer, while Chinese directors and executives appeared to set policy, manage operations and direct the business.

The address was also registered to at least five related companies, which investigators believe could form an interconnected network for project management, construction and asset holding.

Company identified as B was investigated after an examination of an Israeli-linked business on Koh Phangan. At least five affiliated companies were registered at the same address and appeared to share directors and shareholders.

One business operated accommodation while advertising rehabilitation, wellness yoga and treatment services, with reported assets above 100 million baht. District officials found no hotel operating licence, while the Surat Thani Provincial Public Health Office is checking whether it holds a licence under the Health Establishment Act 2016.

Company identified as N, which has run a Koh Samui hotel since 2013, is also being examined. It has a Thai director and Thai and Israeli shareholders; officials are checking funding sources and whether Thai shareholders could afford their stakes.

Company L, a residential developer and landlord with assets above 330 million baht, owns three land plots bought for more than 11 million baht. A related entity owns another eight plots valued above 30 million baht. The site appeared to operate as a resort catering exclusively to foreign tourists.

Ministry warns of prosecutions

Poonpong said the ministry would continue pursuing suspected nominee arrangements and coordinate with relevant agencies where breaches are found.

The investigation could extend to foreign investors, Thai shareholders and professional advisers. No final legal findings have yet been announced.

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15 July 2026
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Bangkok Raids Net Seven Chinese & Vietnamese Fugitives

Thai immigration police have arrested seven Chinese and Vietnamese nationals wanted on overseas warrants during coordinated raids across Bangkok, officials said on Tuesday, 14 July 2026.

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The suspects were allegedly linked to drug trafficking, fraud, illegal deposit-taking, bribery and embezzlement cases overseas. The alleged losses across the seven cases total more than 37 million baht.

The operation, named "Bangkok: No Stay", followed information supplied by the Chinese and Vietnamese embassies in Thailand through the Royal Thai Police Foreign Affairs Division.

Raids across Bangkok and beyond

Among those arrested was Ms Dong, 39, who was found in a room in the Charansanitwong area of Bang Phlat. She is wanted by Vietnam on allegations of drug trafficking and illegal possession of narcotics, with drugs in the case valued at about 2 million baht.



Mr Wang, 38, was intercepted while allegedly attempting to flee along the Bangkok-Prachuap Khiri Khan main road. He is wanted by China over allegations of illegally accepting public deposits, a case said to have caused about 10 million baht in economic losses.

Police also detained Ms Li, 33, at a residence in the Rang Nam area of Ratchathewi. She is wanted by China on a serious allegation of bribing a person who is not a state official, with reported damage of about 10 million baht.

Ms Wang, 36, was arrested at a condominium in the Sukhumvit area. Chinese authorities want her on an allegation of public fraud involving approximately 3 million baht.

Two alleged members of the same network, Mr Dalin, 39, and Ms Li, 37, were detained together at a house in the Prawet area. Both are wanted by China for jointly committing fraud, with accumulated losses in the system of around 6 million baht.

The seventh suspect, Mr Yang, 40, was traced and arrested in the Lak Si area. He is wanted by China over an allegation of embezzlement through his employment position, involving about 2 million baht.

Removal proceedings planned

The Immigration Bureau said the operation formed part of its "three no's" policy: no entry, no stay and no escape. The nationwide enforcement drive has been under way since the start of 2026 under orders from national police chief Pol Gen Kittirat Phanphet and Immigration Bureau commissioner Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonyalak.

For foreign residents and visitors, the case is a reminder that Thai immigration authorities exchange intelligence with overseas embassies and can act on international and foreign arrest warrants. Immigration police said all seven suspects would face action under immigration law before being removed from Thailand and returned to their home countries to face punishment.

Deputy Immigration Bureau commissioner Pol Maj Gen Prachya Prasansuk said there would be no leniency for mafias or transnational criminals, adding that authorities would continue sharing information with embassies to target grey-capital networks and threats to public safety.


Pictures courtesy of Naewna

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15 July 2026
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Thailand Approves First Deportation Rules For Foreigners

Thailand's Cabinet on 14 July approved a draft Prime Minister's Office regulation establishing formal procedures for deporting foreigners from the country.

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The proposed rules are intended to speed up the removal of foreign nationals who have entered or remained in Thailand illegally, broken foreign-worker or foreign-business laws, or committed specified criminal offences.

Government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek said the move follows a Cabinet meeting on 16 June 2026, when Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt was assigned to coordinate relevant agencies on changes to immigration-related laws, regulations and rules.

The aim was to make the process of returning foreign offenders and people who entered Thailand unlawfully quicker.

Six grounds for deportation

The draft regulation, proposed by Pakorn, identifies six categories in which a foreigner may be deported when necessary for public order and public morality.

They are illegal entry into or residence in Thailand; working unlawfully under foreign-worker legislation; and conducting business unlawfully under foreign-business legislation.

The other grounds are forging official documents or using forged official documents; committing an offence carrying a prison term of three years or more; and acting as a principal, instigator or supporter in any of the first five categories.

The government said Thailand currently has no formal administrative regulation specifically governing deportation procedures, despite the need for close cooperation between state agencies. The new framework is intended to make administration of deportations faster and more effective.

For foreigners living in or visiting Thailand, the proposal reinforces the importance of keeping immigration permission, work authorisation and business arrangements in order. It is aimed at illegal entry, unlawful work or business activity, document fraud and serious criminal matters, rather than setting out new conditions for ordinary tourists, retirees or other legally resident foreigners.

Prison releases and return arrangements

Under the draft, the director-general of the Department of Corrections must notify the permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry, or a delegated official, of a foreign prisoner's name, nationality, case file and relevant evidence or information before that person is released from prison.

The permanent secretary, or delegate, must then report to the interior minister for consideration of a deportation order without delay.

The Interior Ministry would be responsible for returning a person subject to deportation to their country of nationality. Where nationality is uncertain, the person would be sent to the country where they said they last lived before entering Thailand.

The regulation also covers cases in which another country where the person has no nationality, or an international organisation, makes a request through diplomatic channels. Such a request must state that the requesting party will accept all costs of caring for the deportee before transfer and the costs of removal, and the person facing deportation must give written consent.


Picture courtesy of Amarin

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15 July 2026
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Phetchaburi Fireworks Blast Injures Two, Damages Homes

Two people were injured and 10 homes damaged after fireworks exploded at a licensed fireworks-making property in Phetchaburi on 14 July 2026.

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The blast happened at about 12.45pm at Ban Rai Teen Nam, Moo 2, Ton Mamuang subdistrict, in Mueang Phetchaburi district. Police said the explosion was heard more than 10 kilometres away.

Police Lieutenant Athit Bunkhroe, an investigating officer at Mueang Phetchaburi Police Station, was notified of the incident and reported it to station chief Police Colonel Chokchai Nialseng. Ton Mamuang Municipality mayor Kanoksak Muttakarn also went to the scene.

Former village headman and wife treated

Before police arrived, members of the public and Ton Mamuang Municipality emergency responders assisted two injured people and took them to Phrachomklao Hospital in Phetchaburi.



They were named as 68-year-old Songkran, known as Kamnan Muek, a former headman of Ton Mamuang subdistrict, and his 42-year-old wife, Nantaphat. Both suffered injuries, including abrasions to their bodies.

Initial inquiries found that the couple had been inside their home when fireworks stored in the carport exploded. Police said the fireworks involved black powder.

The property had received permission from Mueang Phetchaburi district authorities to operate a fireworks business legally, according to reports. The business had operated for more than 40 years without a previous incident.

Homes and vehicles hit by blast

The force of the explosion damaged almost 10 nearby homes. Roofs were damaged, ceiling panels were torn away, and door and window glass was shattered.

A saloon car and a pick-up truck were also damaged. The financial cost of the destruction has not yet been assessed.
Police sealed off the area and barred unauthorised people from entering, to protect evidence while Phetchaburi forensic officers examine the site and establish the exact cause of the blast.

Investigation continues

Authorities are awaiting a detailed forensic examination before reaching conclusions on what caused the stored fireworks to explode.


Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath

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15 July 2026
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US man held at Nepal border says passport lost in Thailand

A 36-year-old man claiming to be a US citizen was arrested near India's border with Nepal after allegedly attempting to cross without a passport, visa or other identity documents. During questioning, he told police he had travelled to Thailand on a tourist visa and lost his passport there.

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The man identified himself as Jordan Brown, a resident of California, according to Indian authorities. He also reportedly claimed to be a former US Navy officer, though police said his statements are being verified.

Arrest at the Sonauli border

Brown was stopped by personnel from the 22nd Battalion of India's Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) during a routine patrol near border pillar 516 in Mainihwa, within the Sonauli police station area of Maharajganj district, Uttar Pradesh.

Authorities said he was signalled to stop while attempting to enter Nepal. He allegedly tried to run away but was caught by border personnel.


Picture courtesy of NDTV

Siddharth, additional superintendent of police for Maharajganj, said Brown had no valid travel or identity documents when he was detained.

Officers recovered Rs 31,460 in cash and two mobile phones during a search, but said he could not produce a passport, visa or any other valid document. SSB Assistant Commandant Priya Yadav said he was questioned by the border force and other security agencies before being handed to Uttar Pradesh police in Sonauli for legal action.

Thailand travel claim under scrutiny

Police said Brown told them he had entered Thailand on a tourist visa, where he lost his US passport. He allegedly then travelled by sea to Sri Lanka before arriving in India by sea on 2 November 2025.

He had reportedly been living in Goa since then, spending nearly seven months in India without carrying his passport. Police said he later travelled from Goa to Bengaluru and then headed to the Sonauli border intending to enter Nepal.

A case has been registered at Sonauli Police Station under Sections 21 and 23 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, relating to entering India without valid documents. Indian police are verifying Brown's identity, nationality, travel account and other claims.

For foreigners in Thailand, the case is a practical reminder that losing a passport while on a tourist visa does not remove the need for valid documents for onward travel. Visitors who lose a passport should report it promptly, contact their embassy or consulate for guidance on replacement travel documents, and ensure they have the necessary immigration clearance before leaving Thailand or attempting to cross another international border.

ScreenRecording_07-14-2026 17-23-08_1.mp4

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15 July 2026
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Thailand Amends Proposed Visa Rules Changes

The Cabinet approved a further review of visa privileges on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. The draft Ministry of Interior announcements will only take effect 15 days after they are published in the Royal Gazette.

Deputy government spokesperson Ploytalay Laksameesangchan said the changes are intended to close security loopholes, curb the misuse of tourist entry for non-tourism activities and apply a "one country, one entitlement" approach.

The government said the longer 60-day stay could be used to enter Thailand for illegal activities or purposes inconsistent with tourism.

New 30-day, 15-day and Visa on Arrival categories

Under the revamped arrangements, 59 countries and territories will receive visa-free entry for tourism stays of up to 30 days.

The government said these entitlement have now been extended to six more countries: India, Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta and the Maldives. It said this would mean all 27 European Union member states receive the same entitlement, supporting international relations, negotiations for Schengen visa exemptions for Thai nationals and economic agreements.

In considering India, authorities cited a previous fall in Indian visitor numbers, since the changes were first announced, as well as the country's importance to Thailand's economy, trade, investment and international relations. The government noted that Indian tourists stay in Thailand, on average, for only 7.2 days per visit.

Mauritius and Seychelles will receive visa-free tourism entry for stays of up to 15 days. Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia will be eligible for Visa on Arrival at designated immigration checkpoints.
Visa& Immigration

Ploytalay said a total of 65 countries and territories would receive an entitlement under the various revised measures. The review took account of economic and security factors, international relations and reciprocity.
Economics

What travellers already in Thailand need to know

Foreign nationals who entered Thailand before the new announcements take effect will be allowed to stay for the balance of the period originally granted to them.

For visitors and expats who regularly use visa-exempt entry for short trips, the main practical change is that the previous 60-day allowance will no longer apply once the rules are in force.

Travellers should check the Royal Gazette announcements and their nationality's entitlement before booking, particularly where a stay may exceed 15 or 30 days.

TDAC screening to be tightened

Security agencies will also improve the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC, system to screen foreign nationals' records and review their travel into and out of the country.

Authorities will speed up links between agency databases to assess risks from travellers' points of origin and monitor whether visa privileges are being used as intended.
Visa& Immigration

"This review is not intended to reduce tourism opportunities, but to adjust the system to make it more appropriate, clear and verifiable," Ploytalay said, adding that the aim was to balance economic stimulus, travel facilitation, international relations and national security.

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15 July 2026
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Tourists Evacuated After Chiang Mai Hotel Fire

Tourists and other hotel guests were forced to evacuate in the early hours of Tuesday after a fire broke out on the fourth floor of a hotel in Chiang Mai, leaving one woman injured and prompting a large emergency response.

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The fire was reported at 4.15 a.m. on July 14 at a hotel on Sripingmuang Road in Haiya subdistrict, Mueang district, Chiang Mai. The rescue command centre dispatched fire engines along with volunteers from the Phetkasem Chiang Mai Foundation to tackle the blaze and assist people trapped inside the building.

When emergency crews arrived, thick smoke was billowing from the fourth floor of the hotel. Rescuers went room to room helping to evacuate guests, including tourists, who had been asleep when the fire started, causing scenes of panic as they were led to safety.

Firefighters concentrated their efforts on preventing the flames from spreading to neighbouring rooms by using water hose-lines in the effected room. The fire was brought under control after approximately 40 minutes, preventing more extensive damage to the hotel.



Initial investigations found that the fire originated in a room occupied by a 47-year-old woman. She suffered a burnt index finger, cuts to her foot caused by broken glass and smoke inhalation during the incident.

The injured woman received first aid at the scene before being transported to hospital for further treatment. No other injuries or fatalities were reported.

Following the fire, Chiang Mai City police examined the scene and secured the area around the damaged room. The cordon remained in place until forensic investigators completed their examination.

Authorities have not yet determined what caused the fire. Forensic officers are to continue to investigate the scene, establish the source of the blaze and assess the extent of the damage before releasing their findings.

Amarin reported that the incident highlights the importance of rapid emergency response at hotels accommodating both domestic and international visitors. Officials have not announced whether the hotel will remain open while investigations continue.


Pictures courtesy of Amarin

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14 July 2026
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Thai Call Centre Suspects Held at Sa Kaeo Border

Two Thai men suspected of working for a call centre scam network in Cambodia for more than two years have been arrested after allegedly illegally crossing back into Thailand through the natural border at Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province.

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The arrests were made on July 12 after troops from Burapha Task Force, acting on orders from Colonel Chainarong Kasee, commander of the Aranyaprathet Task Force, deployed a patrol led by Captain Akom Mongkolnam of Ranger Company 1201. The patrol was monitoring the border near Checkpoint A.17 at Ban Khlong Luek in Aranyaprathet district when officers spotted two Thai men crossing Khlong Luek Canal and breaching a barbed-wire border fence.

Checks revealed that the first suspect, aged 28, was wanted under four arrest warrants issued by the Criminal Court. The second suspect, aged 40, had a criminal record linked to 11 cases and was wanted under nine arrest warrants issued by Pathum Thani Provincial Court.

During questioning, both men told investigators they had travelled to Poipet in February 2024 to work for a call centre scam operation. Their duties included responding to online chat messages to persuade victims to invest and using facial recognition to open so-called mule bank accounts through mobile banking applications. They said they were paid 5,000 baht for each account opened.



The pair said their employment ended in June 2026 after Cambodian authorities launched a major crackdown on call centre scam networks. According to their statements, their Chinese employer and several staff fled during the operation, leaving them unemployed in Poipet. After running out of money, they decided to return to Thailand by illegally crossing the border via a natural route, including the canal and the border fence.

Authorities have transferred both suspects to investigators at Khlong Luek Police Station for legal proceedings. Officers are also expanding the investigation into the wider call centre scam network and those involved in opening mule bank accounts connected to the operation.

Khaosod reported that the arrests come as authorities in Cambodia and neighbouring countries continue to intensify efforts against cross-border scam compounds that have targeted victims across the region. Thai authorities are expected to continue cooperating with law enforcement agencies to identify additional suspects and dismantle criminal networks linked to online fraud.


Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

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14 July 2026
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Georgealbert

Cyber Police Arrest Three in Chinese Scam Probe

Thai Cyber Police have arrested three more suspects as part of an investigation into a Chinese scam network accused of coercing a 19-year-old university student into breaking open his mother’s safe and handing over assets worth more than 6.8 million baht. The latest arrests form part of an expanded money laundering investigation that has led to the seizure of assets valued at more than 11 million baht. GeographicReference

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The arrests were announced on 13 July at the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau Division 2 headquarters by Pol Lt Gen Surapol Prembut, Commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, alongside senior officers. The three suspects were identified as Zheng Likul, who allegedly exchanged cash for digital assets, Suda, who allegedly carried out the same role, and Housi Zhou, who is accused of transferring 218,350 USDT to Zheng Likul.

The case began on 19 November 2025 when the 19-year-old student was targeted by scammers posing as government officials. The gang allegedly sent forged documents and threatened him with legal action before instructing him to isolate himself in his room while remaining on a continuous video call.

Under the scammers’ instructions, the student transferred money and removed valuables belonging to his mother from a safe. The items included more than 50 baht weight of gold bars, gold necklaces, diamond jewellery, gold-framed Buddhist amulets and other valuables, which he placed at designated locations for collection. The total reported loss exceeded 6.8 million baht.

Investigators from Cyber Crime Investigation Division 2 reviewed CCTV footage and gathered evidence showing the group operated through a structured network with separate roles for making fraudulent calls, collecting property, transporting valuables, selling assets and converting cash into cryptocurrency to conceal its origin. The stolen gold was reportedly sold in several locations before the proceeds were converted into USDT.

On 22 November 2025, police arrested 31-year-old Chinese national Qin Hao while collecting property near rubbish bins behind a company in Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi. The investigation later resulted in arrest warrants for Huang Jiyi, accused of driving and selling the stolen gold, and Zhang Haiqing, accused of directing the operation and managing the assets.

Police recovered part of the stolen property, including gold bars and melted gold worth about 3.5 million baht, two vehicles and mobile phones. Investigators also traced photographs of cash and transfers totalling 218,350 USDT, worth more than 7.2 million baht, linking the operation to an alleged money laundering network.

On 19 May 2026, Zheng Likul and Suda were questioned after CCTV footage allegedly showed Housi Zhou removing bundles of cash from a house in Lam Luk Ka district, Pathum Thani. Both denied involvement, but investigators said the evidence warranted further action.

Search warrants executed on 16 and 17 June 2026 at two properties in Mueang Pathum Thani uncovered two mobile phones, approximately 100 kilograms of silver-coloured metal resembling pure silver, 3.8 million baht in cash and a Mercedes-Benz S500e. Following analysis of the financial trail, warrants were issued for Zheng Likul and Suda on charges of money laundering and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Thaitabloid reported that police have now arrested all three additional suspects and transferred them to investigators for legal proceedings. Authorities said four key suspects have been arrested so far, including three Chinese nationals and one Thai national, while several additional arrest warrants have been issued as officers continue to expand the investigation into the remaining members of the network. GeographicReference

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14 July 2026
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Prosecutors Delay Big Joke Gold Bribery Decision

Thai prosecutors have postponed a decision on whether to indict former Deputy National Police Chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, widely known as “Big Joke”, in the 246-baht-weight gold bribery case until September while seeking additional information.

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The postponement was announced on 13 July at the Office of the Attorney General’s Anti-Corruption Office on Ratchadaphisek Road. Prosecutors are considering an investigation file submitted by investigators from the Anti-Corruption Division recommending charges against Pol Gen Surachate and three other suspects.

The case alleges offences relating to jointly providing property or other benefits to a judicial official or prosecutor to induce improper action under Section 167 of the Criminal Code, as well as misconduct in office under Section 157. The other suspects are Sombat Thoratham, Sorapong Wongsuwan and Surasit Phaekerd, in connection with the alleged 246-baht-weight gold bribery case.

Pol Gen Surachate arrived at the prosecutor’s office at about 10.50am to report as required. After signing documents, he left without speaking to reporters, leaving his lawyer to address the media.

His lawyer, Sanyaphat Samart, said prosecutors had rescheduled the hearing for 18 September at 10.00am. He explained that prosecutors were conducting further enquiries and were awaiting documentation relating to the findings of an independent inquiry panel before deciding whether to proceed with the case.

The lawyer said the delay would not affect the separate investigation being handled by the independent inquiry panel because the two matters are distinct. He added that he believed both processes were moving in the same direction.

Daily News reported that all suspects attended the prosecutor’s office as required to report on the scheduled date. Prosecutors will review the additional material before issuing a final decision on whether to bring charges.


Picture courtesy of Daily News

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14 July 2026
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Death Toll Reaches 30 From Lat Phrao Fire

The death toll from the fire at the Lat Phrao entertainment venue, in Bangkok has risen to 30 after two additional critically injured victims died from their injuries. Authorities said a total of 75 people have been injured, while Chatuchak District has opened assistance measures for those affected.

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The fire broke out at the Brewery at Lat Phrao restaurant, located near Soi Lat Phrao 1 on Lat Phrao Road in Chomphon subdistrict, Chatuchak district, Bangkok, at 11.57pm on 12 July 2026. The blaze resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, prompting a large emergency response.

According to an update issued by the Chatuchak District Office on its official Facebook page, the latest figures were recorded at 9.00am on 14 July 2026. Officials confirmed that the number of fatalities had increased to 30 after two patients in the red category, classified as critically injured, later died.

Of the 30 people who have died, authorities have identified 27 victims, while three remain in the process of formal identification. Officials did not release further details about the identities of those who died.

The total number of injured remains at 75. Among them, 24 are classified as red-category patients with severe injuries, 15 are in the yellow category with moderate injuries, and 36 are in the green category with minor injuries.The updated figures reflect the continuing impact of the fire as hospitals continue treating those injured.

Amarin reported that investigations into the cause of the fire are continuing. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the identification process is completed and the condition of those still receiving treatment develops.


Picture courtesy of Amarin

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14 July 2026
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Tourist Police Arrest Illegal Guide in Chiang Mai

Tourist Police arrested a Myanmar national accused of operating an illegal tour business after officers posed as Mexican tourists during an undercover operation at Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai on 13 July 2026. The suspect, identified only as Saw, 39, was taken into custody at the historic temple in Muang district following an investigation by Tourist Police Division 2.

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The operation was conducted under the direction of Pol Maj Gen Olar Iamprapas, commander of Tourist Police Division 2, and Pol Col Phitsanu Triamdee, superintendent of Division 2. Investigators from Tourist Police Station 1 also took part in the arrest.

According to police, officers disguised themselves as Mexican tourists before approaching and apprehending the suspect inside the temple. Local reports said the undercover tactic enabled investigators to gather sufficient evidence before making the arrest.

Saw faces several charges under Thai law. These include operating a tour business without a licence under the Tourism Business and Tourist Guide Act B.E. 2551 (2008), working as a tourist guide without a valid licence, using a vehicle for purposes other than those specified in its registration under the Motor Vehicle Act B.E. 2522 (1979), working as a foreign national without a work permit or outside the scope of authorised employment, and operating a business in violation of the Foreign Business Act.

Following the arrest, the suspect was handed over to investigators at Muang Chiang Mai Police Station for further legal proceedings. The case forms part of an ongoing effort by Tourist Police to tackle unlicensed tour operators and illegal tourist guides in Thailand.

Authorities said the campaign is intended to strengthen confidence in the country’s tourism industry while improving service standards for visitors. Tourist Police have indicated that similar inspections and undercover operations will continue in tourist destinations across the country.

Khaosod reported that the legal process will now proceed through investigators at Muang Chiang Mai Police Station. Authorities have not released any further details about the suspect or the investigation.

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14 July 2026
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Japanese TikToker Sorry Over Fake Khao San Theft

A Japanese TikToker with around 600,000 followers has apologised after staging a pickpocketing video on Bangkok’s Khao San Road that falsely portrayed a local man as a thief, leading to reputational damage and disrupting his employment. The apology came after the video drew widespread criticism for misleading viewers and potentially harming Thailand’s tourism image.

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The video asked viewers: “If you walk with your wallet sticking out of your pocket, will it be stolen?” It was initially presented as though the creator had genuinely fallen victim to pickpocketing before later revealing that the incident had been staged as a social experiment.

The channel owner later admitted asking a local man to pretend to remove a wallet from his pocket during filming in exchange for in-game items or money. However, the man was reportedly unaware that the footage would later be edited to make it appear that he had committed a real theft.

After the video went viral, the man was reportedly viewed with suspicion by tourists and others in the Khao San Road area, affecting his ability to work. Images of official documents shared online indicated that he filed a complaint at Chanasongkhram Police Station, claiming the video damaged both his reputation and the tourism image of Khao San Road.

The man’s younger sister also posted on social media, stating that her brother did not know the footage would be edited in a way that portrayed him as a thief. She said the incident placed his job at risk and called on the content creator to accept responsibility and explain the facts to her brother’s employer.

The video also prompted criticism from Japanese online communities. Some users argued that the content unfairly suggested Thailand was less safe than it is, while others called for legal action or for the channel to be banned. Others said the participant’s face should have been blurred before publication.

The TikToker later released a video apology, admitting he created the content to attract views and acknowledging it had caused distress to Thailand, the victim and the victim’s family. He also said that after speaking with the victim’s younger sister and learning her brother had lost his job, he recorded an apology addressed to the family and asked that it be shown to the employer to explain what had happened.

According to the TikToker, the victim’s younger sister later informed him that her brother had been allowed to return to work. The creator bowed in apology and accepted full responsibility, saying the entire incident was his fault.

Khoasod reported that here has been no disclosure regarding the progress of the legal proceedings initiated by the victim, and the relevant authorities have not released further details about the case.

ScreenRecording_07-13-2026 14-53-40_1.mp4

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14 July 2026
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Influencer Defends Bar Owner After Bangkok Fire

An influencer who says she has known the owner of Na Lat Phrao Bar for many years has offered a different account of the devastating fire that tore through the venue in Bangkok, insisting the owner is still alive and critically ill after reportedly re-entering the burning building to help customers.
Architecture

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The fire broke out shortly after midnight on 12 July at the entertainment venue near Lat Phrao Soi 1 in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district. Firefighters brought the blaze under control in about 35 minutes, but the incident resulted in multiple deaths and injuries, with authorities continuing to investigate the cause.

On 13 July, well-known influencer Katiya livestreamed on social media to challenge online reports claiming the owner had died. She said she had spoken with people close to him and confirmed he remains alive but is being treated in an intensive care unit (ICU), where he is in a coma and under close medical observation. Doctors are reportedly assessing his condition on a day-by-day basis.

According to Katiya, the owner, who is one of the venue’s major shareholders, initially escaped the building during the fire. However, after realising that people were still trapped inside, he allegedly picked up a fire extinguisher and ran back into the building to assist those still inside despite the danger.
Architecture

She said the owner inhaled a large amount of smoke while attempting to help others and lost consciousness inside the building. Rescue workers later recovered him and rushed him to hospital for emergency treatment.

Katiya also urged the public not to believe rumours or rush to judge the owner while the investigation is ongoing. She said he had always placed great importance on safety measures at the venue, including prohibiting customers from bringing cigarette lighters inside, and argued that the true cause of the fire should be determined only after official investigators complete their work.

She added that the venue’s shareholders and business partners are returning to Bangkok to help coordinate assistance for those affected by the tragedy, including the families of those who died and those who were injured.

Daily News reported that authorities have not yet announced the cause of the fire, and the official investigation remains underway. Medical staff continue to monitor the owner’s condition while investigators work to establish exactly how the blaze started and what legal action will follow.


Picture courtesy of Daily News of Katiya

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14 July 2026
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Myanmar Man Jumps From Building to Avoid Police

A 32-year-old Myanmar national was seriously injured after jumping from the third floor of a rented building while armed with police described as a sparta knife, following a police standoff in Bangkok’s Pracha Uthit area. Officers had responded to reports that he was threatening local residents with the weapon before attempting to attack police during negotiations.

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The incident was reported at 9.30am on 13 July 2026, when officers from Rat Burana Police Station were called to Soi Pracha Uthit 28 in Bang Mot, Thung Khru district. The scene was a five-storey commercial building converted into rental accommodation at 1022/40 Soi Pracha Uthit 28.

Police found the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Myanmar national Chat Min Htoo, on the third floor in an agitated state. He was holding a large sparta knife, waving it around, speaking incoherently and behaving aggressively towards anyone nearby.

Officers spent an extended period attempting to persuade him to put down the weapon. However, police said the man instead tried to attack officers and nearby residents before jumping from the third floor, an estimated height of six metres, while still carrying the knife in an apparent attempt to escape.

He landed heavily on the ground and suffered multiple injuries. Emergency responders reported that he was unconscious, breathing only faintly and unable to respond or move.

Volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation assessed the injured man before requesting an Advanced Life Support (ALS) medical team through the Erawan emergency system. After receiving initial treatment at the scene, he was taken urgently to Bangpakok 8 Hospital.

Thaitabloid reported that police later recovered the sparta knife from beneath a parked vehicle and seized it as evidence for the investigation. The investigation remains ongoing as police establish the circumstances leading up to the incident and continue legal procedures relating to the case.

AQOCLVQo_cjqo5h977pjf9Fh0P21YFlSZ9qmhZoRZbI-Q_yrv4oU89ZEqFQguXy0mjByM__z4R0gW2aGMJ9VOtyKp3ZAy5H1Jdny-Dwbew.mp4

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14 July 2026
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Chinese Bribery Suspect Held at Suvarnabhumi

A Chinese national wanted in connection with an alleged 2.5 million yuan bribery case has been arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport after arriving on a flight from Kuala Lumpur, authorities said. The suspect, identified only as Mr Shen, 44, was taken into custody by officers from the Immigration Bureau after his permission to stay in Thailand was revoked.

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The arrest took place at 12.40am on July 13, 2026, following a joint operation by the Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division and investigators from Immigration Division 2. The operation was carried out under the direction of Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau and Director of the Immigration Bureau’s Transnational Crime Prevention and Suppression Centre, together with senior immigration commanders including Pol Maj Gen Pratchaya Prasansuk, Pol Maj Gen Phanthana Nuchanart, Pol Maj Gen Thanit Thaiwatcharamat, Pol Maj Gen Phanop Worathanatchakul, Pol Col Ratchachot Chotkhun, Pol Col Chitdecha Songhong and Pol Col Thawatchai Narinrat.

The investigation began after the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand asked Thai immigration authorities to help locate a key suspect wanted under an arrest warrant issued by the Chinese authorities. According to the request, Mr Shen allegedly acted as a broker who helped three Chinese private companies secure contracts from another company in China in exchange for payments exceeding 2.5 million yuan, before fleeing the country.

After receiving the information from Malaysian authorities, investigators traced the suspect’s movements and determined that he would travel from Kuala Lumpur to Suvarnabhumi Airport. Officers from Immigration Division 2 were deployed to monitor the airport, where they confirmed his identity before carrying out the arrest.

Following the revocation of his permission to stay in Thailand, officers informed Mr Shen of his legal rights before transferring him to Investigation Division 3 of the Immigration Bureau. He will now undergo legal procedures before being deported to China to face the outstanding charges.

Thaitabloid reported that immigration officials said the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of cooperation between Immigration Division 2, the Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division and overseas law enforcement agencies. The successful arrest highlighted the bureau’s ability to share intelligence, track international fugitives and intercept suspects as soon as they enter Thailand.

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14 July 2026
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Boy, 10, Stabbed With Scissors at Lampang School

A 10-year-old boy required 16 stitches after being stabbed with scissors by a classmate during a group activity at a school in Mueang district, Lampang, on 10 July.

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The boy’s mother, identified only as Mrs A, said the attack happened at about 3.20pm during an arts and crafts lesson. The class had been divided into groups of three, and she said her son and the other boy, both aged 10, were in the same group. According to her account, the alleged attacker became angry after his name was written on the board because he was not taking part in the group work.

Mrs A said the boy cried before allegedly stabbing her son several times in the right thigh and right wrist with a pair of scissors. Her son suffered wounds requiring 13 stitches to his leg and three to his wrist.

She said another parent had told her their child had previously been assaulted by the same pupil, although not as seriously. Mrs A said that if the child displayed violent behaviour, the school should work with the parents to ensure he received appropriate medical assessment and support before returning to school.

Mrs A said the other child’s parents initially agreed to cover all medical expenses if she did not file a police complaint. However, she decided to report the incident because she feared any verbal agreement might later be withdrawn, particularly as she said the alleged attacker’s father was a district official. She claimed that after learning a police report had been filed, the other parent sent a message indicating they would no longer accept responsibility for any costs.

She also criticised the school’s response, saying that by 10.00am on 13 July, four days after the incident, it had not taken sufficient action to reassure her that her son would be safe when he returned to class.

The incident also prevented the boy from taking part in a junior regional football qualifying tournament scheduled for the following day. His mother said he had been devastated to miss the competition after he and his family had invested significant time and effort in supporting his football ambitions.

Amarin reported that the police have received the complaint, while the boy’s mother has called for both the other family and the school to take greater responsibility for the incident and for measures to be introduced to improve pupil safety.

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14 July 2026
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Georgealbert

Influencer Injected Gold Before Thailand Death

American fitness influencer Connor Murphy allegedly injected himself with gold, he had melted down, in the weeks before he drowned while fleeing police in Thailand, according to friends who said his behaviour had become increasingly erratic. Murphy, 32, died on July 7 after jumping into a lake in Samut Prakan while officers responded to complaints from residents.

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Friends claimed Murphy had become obsessed with the idea that gold could give him extraordinary abilities. Australian influencer Androgenic, whose real name is Ronan, said Murphy believed injecting gold would help him “tap into higher levels of consciousness” and alleged he had been melting down gold jewellery before injecting it. Fellow fitness influencer Chris Elkins also told The Sun that Murphy later switched to intravenous infusions of gold, believing they gave him “superpowers”.

According to Elkins, Murphy’s mental health had deteriorated over several years following a 40-day water-only fast in 2020. He said Murphy lost between 50 and 60 pounds during the challenge despite already being in peak physical condition. Elkins also claimed Murphy later experimented with psychedelics, became increasingly isolated from friends and insisted his unusual online behaviour was merely an act.

The US Food and Drug Administration has warned there are significant risks and no proven health benefits from injecting gold or silver outside specific medical treatments using carefully controlled doses. Friends described Murphy’s alleged gold injections as dangerous and said they wished they had been able to persuade him to seek professional help.

Murphy, a former bodybuilding and prank video star with millions of followers, was one of the early influencers linked to the looksmaxxing movement, which promotes improving physical appearance, sometimes through extreme methods. Before his death, police responding to his rented home in Bang Phli found black and yellow paint smeared across walls, furniture and appliances. Authorities also recovered two unused syringes from his car.

Police said Murphy fled when officers arrived following reports of screaming at the property. He jumped into a nearby lake, swam for several minutes and eventually disappeared beneath the surface. Divers later recovered his body around 20 metres from the shore. Authorities have not yet released an official cause of death, and his remains have undergone a post-mortem examination at a hospital in Bangkok, with the final report pending.

The Dun reported that friends also claimed Murphy had recently spoken about faking his own death as part of a documentary project, leading some to initially doubt reports that he had died. Police said neighbours had heard him praying and shouting before officers arrived, while officers reported he became increasingly agitated before entering the lake.


Picture courtesy of The Sun

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