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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.

Dog recovers after neighbour shooting in Kamphaeng Phet

A seven-month-old Thai-breed dog is recovering after emergency surgery to remove a 9mm bullet from its body, following an alleged shooting by a neighbour in Kamphaeng Phet's Khlong Lan district.

The dog's owner has filed a police complaint against a 50-year-old municipal employee after CCTV footage reportedly captured events surrounding the shooting on Wednesday, 26 August 2026.

The owner said Khai Nui had entered a nearby property when the animal was shot at about 13:30. The dog reportedly cried out immediately and was taken to a veterinary clinic in Kamphaeng Phet town, more than 30 kilometres away.



Surgery removes bullet from dog's body

Veterinarians carried out emergency surgery and removed a 9mm bullet lodged in Khai Nui's body, the owner said. The dog is now recovering.

After reviewing CCTV footage, she said she identified a neighbour who works for Khlong Lan Phatthana Subdistrict Municipality as the suspected shooter.

Footage reportedly shows the man walking towards the area before a loud gunshot is heard, followed immediately by the sound of a dog whimpering. He is also said to appear to place what is believed to be a firearm into his waistband before leaving.



The owner submitted the CCTV recording and the bullet removed during the operation to Khlong Lan Police Station when she lodged her complaint on 27 August.

Suspect later admitted shooting, owner says

According to the owner, the man initially denied involvement but later surrendered to police and admitted shooting the dog.

She said he told officers he had disposed of the firearm used. Police searched for the weapon but had not found it.

The owner said she was frightened by the incident, as she lives with her two children while her husband works overseas. She questioned why the neighbour had not approached her if Khai Nui had caused a problem, rather than using violence.

Police said they were collecting evidence and preparing the case for prosecutors.


Pictures courtesy of Khoasod

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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Phuket Israeli arrivals rise 52% as new flights planned

Phuket recorded a 52.5% year-on-year increase in Israeli visitors in July, with arrivals from Israel also up 1,205% on pre-Covid July 2019 levels, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand's Phuket office.

The figures were presented at a provincial meeting on August 27, chaired by Phuket Governor Chotinarin Kirdsom. While total visitor numbers were slightly lower over the first seven months of 2026, tourism income remained comparatively steady.

Israeli market leads July growth

Israel was the fastest-growing market among Phuket's 10 leading visitor source countries in July, rising by more than 12 times compared with the same month in 2019.

Russia remained Phuket's largest overseas market between January and July, supplying 619,130 visitors. China was second with 383,918, followed by India on 354,066, Australia on 149,542 and the United Kingdom on 131,344.

The rest of the top 10 consisted of Germany with 106,902 visitors, France with 103,752, Malaysia with 87,854, Kazakhstan with 81,673 and South Korea with 79,960.

China was Phuket's leading single market in July itself, recording 58,634 visitors. That was a 19% increase on July last year, although still 63% below the July 2019 figure.

Visitor total slips but spending holds up

From January to July, Phuket welcomed 8,096,059 visitors, a 1.53% fall from the same period last year. Hotel occupancy averaged 75.56%, down 1.74%.

Despite the lower visitor total, the province generated about 310,961.57 million baht in tourism revenue during the seven-month period, a decline of only 0.72% year-on-year. The TAT attributed the resilience in revenue to a steady flow of high-spending tourists.

New direct services due this year

Kuwait Airways is scheduled to start a Kuwait-Phuket service on October 27, operating twice a week. MIAT Mongolian Airlines will also operate flights between Ulaanbaatar and Phuket three times weekly from December 2026 until March 2027.

The new Middle East and East Asian connections are expected to support Phuket tourism during the second half of 2026 by opening additional markets and giving travellers more direct options to reach the province.


Picture courtesy of Manager Online

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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Vietnamese suspects arrested over 3.6m baht student scam

Thai cyber police say they have arrested five people after a first-year student at a prominent university in Bangkok's Pathum Wan area was allegedly cheated out of 3.617 million baht in an elaborate call-centre scam.

The victim was targeted on 9 August and was kept on calls into the night after fraudsters claimed the student's bank account was connected to money laundering and online gambling. Police announced the arrests on 28 August 2026.

Fraudsters posed as phone firm and police

The scam began with a caller claiming to represent AIS headquarters, saying somebody had used the student's name to register a mobile SIM card at a shopping centre in Loei province.

The call was then transferred to a person posing as an investigating officer at Mueang Loei Police Station. The student was told to add a Line account named Mueang Loei Police Station before another caller, claiming to be the station superintendent, took over.



The caller allegedly said police had arrested a money-laundering suspect who claimed the student had sold their bank account to receive gambling-site transfers. The fraudsters said 8.5 million baht had been frozen and alleged the student had received a 10 per cent share because they had no financial support from their parents.

Frightened by the claims, the student disclosed having about 856,000 baht in their account. They were told to transfer it to a supposed Anti-Money Laundering Office central account for a one- to two-hour check.

The gang then allegedly ordered the student to lie to their father, saying a large sum was needed for an exchange-student scholarship application in Australia. The father transferred a further 2.7 million baht.

Five payments made in one day

Police said the victim made five payments, with a cash handover on 9 August, totalling 3,617,000 baht. These included bank transfers of 856,000 baht at 12.47pm and 1.1 million baht at 3.54pm.

At 6pm, the student withdrew 1.6 million baht in cash and handed it to a person claiming to be a police officer outside a hotel in the Srinakarin area. Two final transfers, of 26,000 baht and 35,000 baht, followed at 7.33pm and 7.36pm.

The callers then moved communications to Telegram and instructed the victim to keep the call open overnight, apparently to seek more money. The student's aunt noticed something was wrong, questioned the victim and took the evidence to investigators at Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau Division 2.

Five arrested, three still sought

Cyber police obtained warrants for eight people and searched three locations in Samut Prakan and Samut Sakhon, arresting five suspects.


Pictures courtesy of Komchadluek

They named Vietnamese nationals Quoc Nam Nguyen, 28, accused of posing as an officer to collect the 1.6 million baht cash, and Huy Tan Nguyen, 26, who allegedly accompanied him. Officers seized eight phones and clothing said to have been worn on the day.

Also arrested were Dolpak, 48, alleged to have moved cash through company and shop accounts to disguise its origin; Thitikan, 25; and Phattharaporn, 33, both alleged mule-account holders. Police seized 792,690 baht in cash and 13 bank books from Dolpak.

They face allegations including public fraud by impersonation, conspiracy to launder money, importing false computer data and supporting offences. Police are seeking the remaining three suspects.


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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thai Airways enters world's top 10 for 2026

Thai Airways International has been named the world's 10th-best international airline in Travel + Leisure's World’s Best Awards 2026, placing Thailand's national carrier among the global top 10 after years of business rehabilitation.

Taiwan's EVA Air took first place for the first time in the publication's history, ahead of Qatar Airways and Emirates in second and third. EVA Air received a reader-survey score of 91.63.

For foreigners living in Thailand or using Bangkok as a regional travel base, the result is a positive indicator for those considering Thai Airways on long-haul international journeys. The ranking is based on passenger views of comfort, service and value, rather than being a measure of fares, punctuality or individual route performance.

More than 207,000 readers took part

Travel + Leisure said more than 207,000 readers worldwide submitted over 661,000 votes across travel-brand categories. Airlines were assessed on cabin comfort, in-flight service, customer service and overall value.

The complete top 10 was:

EVA Air - Taiwan
Qatar Airways - Qatar
Emirates - United Arab Emirates
La Compagnie - France
Singapore Airlines - Singapore
Japan Airlines (JAL) - Japan
Korean Air - South Korea
Virgin Atlantic Airways - United Kingdom
Etihad Airways - United Arab Emirates
Thai Airways International - Thailand

Rehabilitation programme cited

Thai Airways chief executive Chai Eamsiri described the top-10 position as a positive signal after the carrier's sustained rehabilitation programme.

The airline has spent recent years upgrading its fleet, raising in-flight service standards, developing passenger lounges, revising food and beverage menus, and expanding its international route network. The result reflects a measurable recovery in international passenger confidence since Thai Airways entered and subsequently completed its business reorganisation process.

EVA Air praised for business class

Travel + Leisure cited EVA Air's business-class service and its extensive Asian connections as the main reasons for its number-one ranking. Its fourth-generation Premium Economy Class, introduced in 2025, also received strong passenger feedback during the survey period.

Industry analysts said the 2026 results show that price is no longer passengers' only consideration. Seat comfort, food, cabin crew service, in-flight entertainment and punctuality increasingly influence decisions, especially on long-haul routes where travellers spend many more hours onboard than on domestic flights.

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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

French man hurt in knife struggle with girlfriend in Patong

A French man was taken to hospital after suffering a cut to his right palm during a reported struggle over a knife with his Thai girlfriend at a monthly rental room in Patong, Phuket, early on Friday, 28 August.

Police were called to the property at 63/1 Nanai Road, near Kasemsap Village in Patong, Kathu district, at about 07:00 following a report of a fight and assault involving the couple.

Pol. Lt. Thanat Piyanut Khunthong, a deputy investigation officer at Patong Police Station, attended the scene. Patong Police Station chief Pol. Col. Kornkrit Khankrua was informed and later inspected the property.

Argument reportedly began at 05:00

Officers found Montakarn, 23, from Si Sa Ket province, who identified herself as the injured man's girlfriend. She told police she had been in a relationship with the French national, Konate, 28, for about five months.

The initial police investigation found that the pair had argued at around 05:00.

Montakarn was reportedly holding a knife during the dispute. Konate tried to take it from her and grabbed the blade, leaving him with a cut on the palm of his right hand, according to police.

Afterwards, he reportedly lay down to rest. When the bleeding did not stop, he walked to a nearby 7-Eleven convenience store, where rescue workers were called.

Police continuing investigation

Rescue personnel took the man to Patong Hospital for treatment. Investigators later went to the hospital to assess Moussa's condition and question him about what happened.

Police said they would continue to examine the circumstances, gather evidence and take action in accordance with the law.

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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Kanchanaburi pair charged over suspected acid attack

Police in Kanchanaburi have charged a 32-year-old woman's boyfriend and his friend with jointly attempting to murder her after she suffered chemical burns in a car.

The boyfriend, identified as Thep, insists the incident was an accident during an argument with his girlfriend, Namfon. His friend, Dam, denies any involvement.

The development was reported on 28 August 2026, after Namfon's relatives sought help from the Deputy Education Minister, saying she had been attacked with acid by her boyfriend following a dispute in a vehicle.



Thep says chemical spilled during struggle

Thep was taken in for questioning alongside Dam at Mueang Kanchanaburi Police Station. At the time, Thep had a head wound and burns to his hand caused by the chemical, according to the report.

Speaking while being taken into custody, Thep said there had been no plan to harm Namfon. He claimed they had argued in the car and that Namfon struck him on the head with a liquor bottle, leaving a large cut.

He said that during the ensuing struggle he grabbed a bottle from the rear seat of the vehicle, believing it contained air-conditioner cleaning fluid. He claimed the liquid spilled onto Namfon, causing her injuries.


Pictures courtesy of Khoasod

Thep said he had not intended to hurt her, apologised to Namfon and her family, and said he still loved her. He also maintained that Dam had no role in what happened.

Dam told investigators he was not connected to the alleged attack in any way.

Chemical and vehicle evidence being tested

Police have collected evidence from the vehicle, including the plastic bottle containing the chemical that Thep said was air-conditioner cleaning fluid.

Samples taken from Namfon's face and skin have also been sent for examination, along with the liquid from the bottle, as investigators work to establish exactly what substance was involved.

Despite both men's accounts, investigators at Mueang Kanchanaburi Police Station have charged Thep and Dam with jointly attempting to murder another person. They are due to be taken to Kanchanaburi Provincial Court for remand proceedings under legal procedures.


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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Israel Embassy: Patong diners were not Israelis

The Israeli Embassy in Thailand has said tourists accused of leaving a Patong restaurant without paying an approximately 8,000-baht bill were not Israeli, following earlier social-media claims about their nationality.

In a statement issued on August 27, the embassy said Patong Police had confirmed that those involved were visitors from Saudi Arabia and Morocco. The embassy urged media organisations and social-media users to check nationalities carefully before sharing such claims.

Claims spread online after Patong bill dispute

The incident involved a group of tourists who ate at a restaurant in Patong, Phuket, then left without paying a bill of around 8,000 baht, according to reports cited by the embassy.

The case was posted on social media from August 19, 2024, where the people involved were identified as Israelis. The claim spread quickly and drew wide public attention.

However, Patong Police Station issued a clarification on August 23, 2024, including details of the tourists' nationalities. Police said the individuals in the report were not Israeli, but tourists from Saudi Arabia and Morocco.

The Israeli Embassy said inaccurate reports published without checking with relevant authorities could cause misunderstanding and serious harm. It warned that such claims could also fuel prejudice and hostility towards Israeli tourists and the Israeli community.

Embassy calls for nationality checks

The embassy called on news organisations, social-media users and the public to verify information thoroughly before publishing or sharing it, particularly when identifying a person's nationality.

Restaurant disputes or allegations of unpaid bills should be handled through the police and venue management, rather than through unverified online accusations about a visitor's nationality.

The embassy's intervention comes after police had already publicly clarified the identities of the tourists involved. Its statement focused on preventing reputational damage to people and communities who had no connection to the alleged restaurant bill incident.

Related story

Tourists-accused-of-dine-and-dash-over-8000-baht-Patong-bill

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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Bangkok named world's best nightlife city for 2026

Bangkok has been named the world's best city for nightlife in 2026 by Time Out, climbing from 13th place last year to beat Berlin, New York City, Melbourne and Sao Paulo.

The ranking was based on a survey of more than 24,000 residents in 150 cities, alongside views from more than 100 Time Out editors and city experts. It assessed nightlife quality and affordability, community, and whether a city feels exciting, lively, diverse, welcoming and safe after dark.

Survey puts Bangkok at the top

Some 73% of Bangkok respondents described the city's nightlife as either "good" or "amazing", according to Time Out. The same proportion said it was easy to find connection and community in the capital.

Time Out's expert panel gave Bangkok a 95% approval score. The city was also eighth in Time Out's wider list of the world's best cities for 2026, and second among Asian cities.

The top 10 nightlife cities were:

Bangkok, Thailand
Berlin, Germany
New York City, US
Melbourne, Australia
Sao Paulo, Brazil
Medellin, Colombia
Johannesburg, South Africa
Brighton, UK
Beijing, China
Amsterdam, Netherlands

Bars, clubs and food after midnight

Time Out pointed to Bangkok's breadth of after-dark choices, from major clubs and rooftop bars to small neighbourhood cocktail venues, roadside drinking spots and late-night food stalls. LGBTQ+ venues were also among the attractions cited.

The guide singled out the Soi Nana area, where venues include G.O.D, Tep Bar and Ba Hao. Sing Sing Theater was also highlighted, along with newer rooftop venues: ÆTHER, on the 44th floor of Dusit Central Park, and Sato San, on the 32nd floor of Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong.

Silom and street food add to the appeal

Late-night food was another part of Bangkok's appeal, Time Out said. It noted that people can move between rooftop venues, local bars and street-food stalls serving dishes such as pad kaphrao well into the night.

Silom was highlighted for its LGBTQ+-friendly nightlife scene. For newcomers, that variety may make Bangkok easier to explore than cities where bars, restaurants and clubs are concentrated in separate areas, although visitors should still make their own arrangements for getting back to their accommodation after a night out.



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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Bangkok fire injures three at Khlong Thom Centre

A major fire broke out at Khlong Thom Centre on Worachak Road in Bangkok on 28 August, injuring three emergency responders as firefighters worked to prevent the blaze spreading to neighbouring buildings.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt arrived at the scene at about 10pm, where Surachai Rawiwann, director of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, briefed him on the firefighting operation.

Rama 199, Bangkok's emergency radio centre, reported at 10.00pm that the fire had engulfed the Khlong Thom Centre building but had not spread to adjacent properties. Firefighters had contained the risk of flames spreading on the side facing Chao Khamrop Road.



Building begins to collapse

The operation was complicated by large quantities of combustible materials inside the building, including plastic goods, gas shops and electronic equipment.

At 10.16pm, Rama 199 said the building had begun to collapse, while crews continued efforts to stop the fire from extending further.

By 10.41pm, three people had been reported injured: a volunteer, a firefighter from Suan Mali station and a firefighter from Samsen station. All received first aid and were taken to Klang Hospital.



Jatuporn Buruspat, the deputy interior minister, and Theeraphat Kachamat, director-general of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, also attended the scene to monitor the response.

Jatuporn said machinery, equipment, volunteers and Bangkok officials had been mobilised to control the fire. Scene assessments indicated crews had brought the main fire under control, although firefighters were still tackling hot spots in areas that were difficult to reach.


Pictures courtesy of Amarin

Asked about casualties and fatalities, Jatuporn said he had not yet received a full report, apart from minor injuries to personnel. He also said he had not received confirmation of reports that the fire began on the building's fourth floor, adding that evidence would need to be examined and an investigation will be carried out, once the area is declared safe.

Emergency will remain at the scene throughout the night, ensuring that the fire is fully extinguished.

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Videos from the scene

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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Russian man collapses in Pattaya Walking Street toilet

A Russian tourist was found unconscious in a toilet on Pattaya's Walking Street early on 28 August, while his heavily intoxicated friends initially prevented rescuers from treating him.

White powder was seen inside the man's nostrils, but officials could not establish what substance it was. The group refused to allow him to be taken to hospital and instead took him back to their accommodation.

Rescue workers blocked at Walking Street

The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya rescue radio centre was alerted at 2.30am to reports of an unconscious foreign man in a toilet on Walking Street in South Pattaya, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi.

Pattaya special affairs officials, tourist police and volunteer rescuers attended. A crowd of tourists had gathered at the scene after the Russian man was found slumped and unconscious in the toilet.

He later came around, but was speaking incoherently, appearing severely intoxicated. Friends of the same nationality, who were also reportedly heavily drunk, shouted at and obstructed the officers, initially refusing to let them assist.



The group eventually carried the man outside to an area with better ventilation. However, they continued to oppose an ambulance transfer to hospital.

Powder seen, but cause remains unclear

Rescuers said the man's friends told them he had taken antidepressant medication and consumed alcohol before losing consciousness.

During their examination, officers saw a white residue in his nostrils which resembled an illicit drug, although they could not identify it. The man remained confused and intoxicated, saying only that his "leg was missing" and insisting that he wanted to return to his accommodation rather than go to hospital.

A witness, Kriangsak Thapkluea, 64, said the Russian group had come from a nearby Russian entertainment venue before using the toilets. He said one of the friends ran to ask him for help after the man collapsed.

Kriangsak said his own shop had been closed for some time and that the group had only entered to use the toilet. He believed the man's condition resembled drug use after seeing what he described as a large amount of white powder in the nostrils, but said he did not know where any substance may have come from or whether it had been bought or sold.

Officials were only able to record the identities of those involved, other than they were Russian. No clear cause of the man's collapse could be confirmed because his friends would not allow him to be taken to hospital.


Pictures courtesy of SiamChon

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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thai ‘Rental Wives’ Serve Older Western Men, Vietnam Media Says

Vietnamese media outlets have claimed Thai women are hired as "rental wives" by retired Western men, particularly in tourist centres including Pattaya. However, the reports provide no official figures, named providers or evidence that such arrangements are a recognised or widespread practice in Thailand.

The claims appeared in Vietnamese newspaper Tien Phong, which cited Chinese outlets Sina and Sohu. According to the reports, foreign visitors may pay Thai women to act as guides, partners and, in many cases, sexual companions.

The term could cover very different situations, ranging from paid companionship and informal relationships to commercial sex work, with differing legal and personal consequences.

Reports link claims to Vietnam War period

Tien Phong traced the alleged practice to the Vietnam War, when US military personnel were stationed at air bases in Thailand. It said local intermediaries introduced Thai women to American servicemen for fees, while entertainment venues near the bases developed from serving drinks into arranging female companionship.

The newspaper claimed comparable arrangements later became associated with Pattaya and other destinations as more Western men retired in Thailand. It portrayed the women involved as mainly coming from lower-income families seeking better earnings.

It said such arrangements could run from a few days to one or two years. Foreign partners were generally said to pay for accommodation, food, entertainment and other costs, while some couples were eventually reported to have married legally.

Prices and scale unverified

Tien Phong cited prices of around 13,000 baht a day for arrangements of fewer than seven days, falling to 9,000 baht a day for longer bookings. It put the cost of a month-long arrangement at roughly 50,000 baht.

But it did not identify the Thai media outlets said to have supplied those figures, name any service providers or produce official data. Nor did it cite a national survey or government statistics showing the scale of the alleged arrangements.

The reports warned that women could face unintended pregnancies, abandonment and financial insecurity. They also said foreign men could lose money or property through fraudulent relationships.

Thai abortion law misstated

Tien Phong also incorrectly said abortion is illegal in Thailand, claiming many women are left with unwanted children.

Termination is permitted without conditions during the first 12 weeks, and between 12 and 20 weeks after counselling with an authorised medical professional.

Other grounds include health risks, severe foetal abnormalities and sexual assault.



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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Government warns CP rail partner over contract exit

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has warned that withdrawing from a government rail contract is not straightforward, after CP-linked Asia Era One sought to end its agreement for the three-airport high-speed railway.

The company has also indicated it could stop operating Bangkok's Airport Rail Link on September 30, 2026, raising concerns over a service widely used by foreign residents, airport workers and travellers heading to and from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Government to meet EEC officials

Speaking at Government House on August 28, Anutin, who is also interior minister, said he had not yet received the full details of the case involving Asia Era One and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).

He said he would invite Chula Sukmanop, secretary-general of the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee, for discussions next week. Several issues relating to EEC regulations and legislation still needed to be taken forward, he said.

Asia Era One, a company in the CP group, is the private partner for the high-speed rail scheme linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao airports. It has sent a letter seeking to exercise its right to terminate the contract and halt Airport Rail Link operations from September 30.

The disagreement centres on the company's request to change how it receives state payments. Asia Era One wants payments tied to construction progress rather than a lump sum after the whole project has been completed, Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat said.

Airport Rail Link continuity is the priority

Anutin said the matter would need to be discussed, but stressed that contracts with the state could not simply be cancelled.



"I have only seen the state terminate contracts. I have never seen the private sector ask to terminate one," he said, warning that consequences could include blacklisting, being labelled as having abandoned work, or financial liability.

He said that if a replacement tender resulted in a higher price, regulations could require the original party ending the contract to cover the difference. There were also numerous other conditions, he added.

Siripong said the company could not unilaterally end the agreement under the legal framework. Termination would require agreement by both sides, conditions implied in the contract, a court order, or the government's use of its termination rights. He said none of these conditions had been met.

The SRT meet Asia Era One on Thursday, August 27, with uninterrupted Airport Rail Link services the priority, but no agreement was reached. The government considers continued operation by Asia Era One the preferred outcome, but SRT Electrified Train Co Ltd, which previously ran the line, is ready to resume operations. Another private operator could also be considered.

Other rail work may be separated

Future talks will also cover sections overlapping with other railway projects, including the Bang Sue-Don Mueang stretch under Contract 4-1 of the Thai-Chinese high-speed railway and the Red Line "Missing Link" between Bang Sue and Hua Lamphong near Ramathibodi Hospital station.

Siripong said the SRT taking back those works could reduce Asia Era One's investment burden and help preserve the main agreement. Options will go to the next EEC Policy Committee for a decision.


Pictures courtesy of The Nation

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29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Crash at Pattaya City Hall injures Russian tourist

A Russian tourist was injured and a Thai motorcyclist was seriously hurt after two motorcycles collided at a pedestrian crossing outside Pattaya City Hall in Chonburi on 28 August 2026.

The collision happened as members of the public and Pattaya City officials were using the crossing. Emergency workers gave first aid at the scene before both injured people were taken to Pattaya Patthamakun Hospital.

Collision at the crossing

Initial reports said a motorcycle with Chonburi registration had stopped at the traffic lights to allow pedestrians to cross the road.

A second motorcycle, described as green and black and carrying Chonburi registration, then struck the rear of the stationary bike.



The impact left two people injured. Authorities have not yet confirmed the precise cause of the collision and are continuing their investigation.

Russian passenger injured

One of those hurt was a Russian national estimated to be aged about 50, who had been travelling as a passenger on the stopped motorcycle.

The rider of the motorcycle that hit the vehicle in front, a Thai man estimated to be about 45, suffered serious injuries and complained of chest pain.

Local Pattaya City officials provided initial medical assistance before coordinating with rescue workers to transport both casualties to hospital for further treatment.

Authorities are reviewing CCTV and questioning witnesses, before any legal action is taken. The names of those involved have not been released.


Pictures courtesy of ฉลาม นิวส์

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28 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Vlogger Films Alleged Cocaine Offers on Bangkok’s Sukhumvit Road

A foreign travel vlogger has raised concerns about apparent street-level drug dealing in central Bangkok after filming several men allegedly offering him cocaine while he walked along Sukhumvit Road with his nine-year-old son.
YOUNG DAUGHTER THOUGHT DEALER MEANT COCA-COLA
The vlogger, known online as GlobetrotterJulez, said he decided to document the encounters after repeatedly being approached the previous day while carrying his four-year-old daughter.
During one encounter, he claimed a man offered him “coke”, prompting his daughter to mistakenly believe the stranger was offering Coca-Cola.
After being approached several times that day, the vlogger returned to Sukhumvit on August 18 to record what was happening. This time, he wore Meta smart glasses while his nine-year-old son accompanied him.

NUMEROUS APPROACHES DURING SHORT WALK
During a daytime walk lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes, the vlogger recorded numerous men approaching or attempting to engage him.
He estimated that he was approached at least 10 times, with several encounters allegedly involving offers of cocaine. The presence of his young son appeared to do little to discourage some of those approaching him.
No drugs were shown changing hands in the footage, and the activities of the individuals recorded have not been independently verified.

QUESTIONS OVER DEALING IN BUSY TOURIST AREA
The footage has nevertheless raised concerns about how openly suspected drug dealers appear able to approach foreigners along one of Bangkok’s busiest tourist and entertainment corridors.
Sukhumvit Road and its surrounding sois attract large numbers of international visitors and contain some of the capital’s best-known hotels, bars, restaurants and nightlife districts.
The vlogger stressed that his criticism was directed at the apparent drug dealing rather than the nationality or ethnicity of those shown in his footage.

COCAINE REMAINS HEAVILY RESTRICTED IN THAILAND
Cocaine is classified as a Category 2 narcotic in Thailand, with trafficking, importing, exporting and selling the drug carrying severe criminal penalties.

Thai authorities have made a number of arrests involving international cocaine trafficking networks operating through Bangkok and other parts of the country.
The footage has since generated online discussion about drug enforcement in central Bangkok and whether a greater police presence is needed in parts of Sukhumvit where tourists are frequently approached.




August 28. 2026
CharlieH
CharlieH

Thailand tops Gemini image use but trails on AI at work

Thailand has the world's highest use of Google's Gemini Nano Banana for image generation, ahead of India, according to the Gemini Report for Southeast Asia 2026.

But while Thai users are embracing AI for creative purposes, the country remains behind neighbours such as Singapore in applying the technology to workplace productivity, data analysis and business efficiency.

Saruj Thipsena, country manager of Google Cloud Thailand, raised the findings during a Thailand Focus 2026 panel discussion, "Rebooting Thailand's Future: Digital, Data and the Next Growth Catalysts".

"Thailand has the highest usage of Gemini's Nano Banana for generating images in the world, even exceeding India. That is the level of creativity Thai people have," Mr Saruj said.

Creativity is strong, workplace use lags

The report highlighted Thailand's strong creative economy and what Mr Saruj called the "super creative" nature of Thai users.

However, he said Singapore was more advanced in using AI at work, including for data analysis, streamlining workflows, improving efficiency and raising productivity.

Vietnamese users were also making clever use of AI, he said, particularly to overcome the language barrier between Vietnamese and English in support of their work and businesses.

Thailand has rapidly developing digital infrastructure and strong momentum in technology adoption, especially in everyday life, Mr Saruj said. The challenge is turning that readiness into higher-value economic activity.

"The challenge is how do we capitalise on this infrastructure and people's readiness and deliver high value from technology. That is where the next curve that Thailand is going to be."

Business decisions now matter most

Mr Saruj said AI's value lay in three main areas: handling data more effectively than people, streamlining and transforming business processes, and distributing knowledge to people and businesses.

"With AI and digital technology, data silos are no longer a challenge. The biggest challenge is now on the business side, not the technology side," he said.

"Technology is beyond ready, but businesses need to have the right mandate to drive technology adoption."

Mr Saruj said technology was also helping to level the playing field. "Three years ago, if you wanted to prototype an idea, you might have had to take six months to develop software to support it. Now, six weeks is too long to test your idea."

Infrastructure alone is not enough

Teeranun Srihong, chairman of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency, said Thailand's digital infrastructure and high-speed networks had become a sufficiently developed "digital highway" to attract major global cloud service providers, or hyperscalers, to invest in the country.

Yet Thailand ranked 37th among 70 countries in the International Institute for Management Development's digital competitiveness ranking, despite placing 29th for technology and infrastructure, he said.

That showed infrastructure alone would not strengthen competitiveness. Thailand needed to speed up its use of data and increase AI investment, Mr Teeranun said, as AI was becoming critical to productivity.

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28 August 2026
Georgealbert
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Four held in Bangkok cough syrup online drug raid

Thai cyber police have arrested four suspects at a Bangkok house accused of selling cough syrup online for use in "4 x 100" drinks, seizing more than 26,000 bottles. Police said the network had buyers nationwide through Line groups and transactions totalling 1 billion baht.

The raid took place on 27 August at a house in The Plant Phoem Sin 60 housing estate, Or Ngoen, Sai Mai district. Officers were acting on Min Buri Criminal Court search warrant C343/2569.

Four men were detained: 31-year-old Piya, 32-year-old Manith, 24-year-old Phonphon, and 33-year-old Myanmar national Min Thetoo.

Cyber police trace online sales network

The operation was ordered by Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau commissioner Pol Lt Gen Suraphon Prembutr and led by Pol Maj Gen Sila Kanrak, commander of Cyber Crime Investigation Division 5.

Senior officers involved included Pol Col Ekweer Pongsroiphet, Pol Col Bancha Srisuk, Pol Col Nattawut Chomchoei, Pol Col Pansak Worawiboonlueasawat, Pol Col Thapakon Numas, Pol Col Kritsada Manawongsakul and Pol Col Suttichai Thianpho, along with officers from Sub-Division 3 of Division 5.

Police said the investigation followed an earlier arrest of a suspect accused of selling cough medicine through online media. Further inquiries identified the Bangkok property as a storage point for the alleged operation.

More than 30,000 bottles listed

Officers reported finding 1,576 bottles of ALLERGIN, 3,172 bottles of ASADOG, 3,037 bottles of CHLORIMINE, 4,192 bottles of I-CORDYL and 700 bottles of DATTISSIN.

A further 91 cartons of DATTISSIN syrup were found in the house garage, with 200 bottles in each carton, making 18,200 bottles. The itemised police count comes to 30,877 bottles, although authorities described the seizure as more than 26,000 bottles.

Police alleged that the medicines were being sold and stored without the required permission. The men also face allegations relating to the advertising of medicines, which requires approval for the wording, sound or images used and compliance with conditions set by the licensing authority.

All four were handed over with the seized items to investigators at Sub-Division 3, Cyber Crime Investigation Division 5, for legal proceedings.


Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid

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28 August 2026
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Warehouse owner accused of sexual abuse by 20 workers

A durian sorting warehouse owner in Chanthaburi, identified only as Mor, has been accused of sexually assaulting more than 20 female employees, according to representatives of the alleged victims.

The complaints have yet to progress with police, the representatives said. On August 26, Assistant Public Health Minister Thanakrit Chit-areerat accompanied them in submitting complaints to the relevant agencies.

Channel 8 reported that Mor allegedly recruited young women aged between 15 and 20 to work at the packing house. The victims' representatives said more than 20 women had suffered sexual abuse.

One worker describes resort ordeal

One woman said she had worked as a clerk at the warehouse for just four days when the alleged assault occurred. She said Mor was driving her towards work but diverted to a resort, telling her he wanted to rest briefly.

According to her account, the employer later came out of a shower wearing only a towel and offered her 1,000 baht for sex. She said he touched her private parts, causing her to scream for help.

The woman said he told her to be quiet and keep the matter secret. She said she escaped rape but was threatened with dismissal, withheld wages and death if she went to police.

She said she subsequently told Mor's wife, who allegedly asked her not to pursue the matter because other workers could lose their jobs.

Claims of threats and cash settlements

The report said Mor allegedly used various excuses and methods to take individual workers to resorts. Some women were allegedly molested, while others were raped.

He was then accused of threatening victims into silence. His wife was also alleged to have negotiated cash payments intended to secure the withdrawal of complaints.

Thanakrit said he was coordinating with provincial police in Chanthaburi to collect evidence and move the case forward. He also said psychological care would be arranged for the alleged victims.

No charges or formal police statements have yet been issued by authorities.


Picture courtesy of ThaiRath

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28 August 2026
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Anutin inspects Royal Thai Navy drill off Sattahip

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inspected a Royal Thai Navy task force exercise in the Upper Gulf of Thailand off Sattahip, Chonburi, on 27 August 2026.

The visit focused on the Navy's operational readiness, maritime-security equipment and its capacity to assist people during disasters, according to government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin and Interior Ministry permanent secretary Arsit Sampantharat accompanied Anutin on the visit.

Visit begins at U-tapao naval airfield

On arrival at the Naval Aviation Division of the Fleet at U-tapao, Anutin was received by Admiral Pairoj Fuengchan, the Royal Thai Navy commander-in-chief, before inspecting an honour guard.



Anutin and Defence Minister Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen received honorary special warfare and Navy parachutist proficiency badges. The prime minister's secretary-general received an honorary Navy parachutist badge.

The badges were presented by Admiral Korawit Chayarotee, commander of the Royal Thai Fleet, before the delegation received a briefing.

Drones and naval firepower demonstrated

Anutin and his party then travelled to the aircraft carrier Chakri Naruebet, stationed at sea, to observe the Navy's 2026 annual exercise.

After receiving honours on the flight deck and attending a briefing in the operations centre, the prime minister watched a 19-round salute fired by the frigate Chao Phraya.

From the carrier's flight-control tower, he observed a demonstration of shore-support fire using naval guns and aircraft. The Chakri Naruebet was also shown operating as a control platform for unmanned vehicles used for surveillance, target designation and attack missions, described as a UXV Carrier.


Pictures courtesy of Amarin

The delegation later viewed displays of unmanned aerial vehicles and unmanned surface vessels on the ship's aircraft storage deck. The government said the equipment demonstrated the application of modern technology to military operations and maritime security.

In the visitors' book, Anutin praised personnel's dedication and professionalism, writing that the Royal Thai Navy was "the pride of the nation". He encouraged all service members in protecting Thailand's sovereignty, security and peace.

Disaster response also on agenda

After the naval exercise, Anutin's group travelled to Naval Training Area No. 15 at Hat Yao to visit the Navy's Incident Command Center, which provides assistance to disaster victims and reviewed a number of natural disaster training exercises.


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28 August 2026
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Concrete falls from Bangkok's Ekachai interchange

A 50-kilogramme piece of concrete fell from the Ekachai interchange bridge onto a footpath in Bangkok's Bang Bon district on August 26, leading officials to inspect the structure and close off the area below.

The concrete, measuring about 50 by 30 centimetres, landed on the footpath. Officials also found a severed lighting cable hanging from the bridge at the same location.

No injuries were reported in the information released by authorities. The bridge remains open for normal use after officials said its main structure was unaffected.

Loose concrete found beneath bridge

Department of Highways officers attended the site with municipal enforcement officers and Bang Bon district civil defence volunteers. They put a cordon around the affected section to stop pedestrians passing underneath while checks were carried out.


Picture courtesy of Bang Bon Civil Defense Volunteer

Sompong Tong-on, an officer from the Department of Highways' Bang Khun Thian highway sub-section, said a civil defence volunteer had alerted him that concrete had fallen from the bridge.

Inspectors then examined the underside of the interchange and found further loose concrete which had not yet fallen. Those fragments were removed as an initial safety precaution.

Old construction material blamed

According to Sompong, the fallen piece was concrete left over from the bridge's construction. Although the bridge had been repaired previously, vibrations caused by passing vehicles had loosened the old material and caused it to fall onto the pavement below.

He stressed that the incident had not affected the bridge's structural integrity and confirmed it could continue operating normally.

The Bang Khun Thian highway sub-section regularly inspects the interchange and has already completed some repair work, Sompong said. Officials will now coordinate with a contractor on additional repairs and preventive work.


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28 August 2026
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Koh Larn speedboat crews fight over fares and customers

A group fight involving rival speedboat operators broke out on Tawaen Beach road on Koh Larn, off Pattaya, at about 5.30pm on 27 August 2026. Video shared online showed men who operate the Pattaya-Koh Larn tourist speedboats arguing before punches were thrown in front of beachgoers.

The footage was posted with the description: "Battle of Pattaya-Koh Larn speedboat operators."

Long-running dispute over passengers

Reports said the dispute stemmed from competition for customers and fare-cutting among operators taking passengers back to Pattaya via Bali Hai Pier.

One side was said to comprise speedboat operators based on Koh Larn who have worked in the trade for more than 30 years. The other group reportedly consisted of Pattaya-based speedboat operators who had crossed to Koh Larn to run the same business.

The two sides had allegedly been in dispute for some time over attracting passengers and undercutting fares before the row escalated into the beachside fight.

A group of Koh Larn speedboat operators later posted online that island residents had previously lived and worked peacefully, accusing newcomers of bringing problems to the island.

"Koh Larn people live peacefully and make a living. We have never fought," the post said. "When you came, you brought problems to Koh Larn and fought like this. It damages Koh Larn's name. If it reaches the media, people will say Koh Larn is lawless again. If it is like this, please do not come and make a living on Koh Larn."

Calls for Pattaya to regulate operators

The local operators called on Pattaya City to take serious action to organise speedboat businesses on Koh Larn, saying this would help prevent further conflicts and protect the island's tourism image.

For foreign residents and visitors, speedboats are a common way to travel between Pattaya and Koh Larn, particularly for day trips to beaches including Tawaen. The reported dispute centres on competing services and fares for the return journey to the mainland, rather than changes to official transport rules.

Travellers choosing private speedboats may wish to agree the return fare, departure point and timing before setting off, particularly during busy periods when several operators are competing for passengers.

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28 August 2026
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Police widen Kamphaeng Phet Chinese kidnapping probe

Thai police are expanding an investigation into the alleged abduction of a 29-year-old Chinese woman after photographs found on a suspect's phone appeared to show several other Chinese women with their hands tied.

National police deputy chief Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelabutr chaired a case-progress meeting at Kamphaeng Phet Provincial Police headquarters on 27 August, alongside Provincial Police Region 6 commissioner Pol Lt Gen Kittisak Durongkaviboon and local officers. Social Development and Human Security officials also attended.

The woman was rescued after escaping a vehicle travelling towards the border following events on the night of 23 August 2026. Four suspects were detained after the vehicle fled a police checkpoint.

Woman says she was recruited while in Singapore

Police said the woman had been visiting Singapore before meeting a Chinese female friend who invited her to Thailand. The friend reportedly said there could be business or income opportunities, offering to cover flights and accommodation and saying someone would collect her at the airport to take her to view work.


Picture courtesy of Daily News

A family consisting of a father, mother and child collected her on arrival in Thailand, according to her initial statement. She said they initially took her off the expected route, but returned her to accommodation in Samut Prakan after she challenged them.

The following morning, she said a 24-year-old man named Kittiporn collected her by car. Believing he had been arranged by her Chinese friend, she travelled with him.

Police said Kittiporn then picked up three men. One sat in the front while two sat beside the woman in the rear. She allegedly realised she had been deceived, resisted and was restrained with her hands tied.

The vehicle travelled from Bangkok via the Asian Highway before turning onto secondary roads in Khanu Woralaksaburi district, Kamphaeng Phet, and heading towards Kamphaeng Phet town, police said. Officers preparing a checkpoint reportedly saw the woman signalling for help inside the vehicle, as it drove off.

Phone images raise concern over further victims

The suspects deny the allegations during questioning. However, investigators examining one suspect's phone found images of several Chinese people apparently tied up and held in circumstances similar to the current case, with some information linked to Ayutthaya province.

Police have seized the material and are examining whether it is connected to the same network and how many other people may have been targeted.

The initial investigation covers alleged assault, robbery, unlawful detention and driving offences involving drugs in the body. Further charges may follow the evidence.

Pol Gen Thatchai has ordered investigators to trace those who may have recruited victims, arranged vehicles, held them and planned their movement towards the border. Police have not ruled out human-trafficking charges if evidence supports them.

Investigators trace possible wider network

Police are reviewing money trails, communications, phone records, travel routes and links between the suspects. They are also investigating whether foreign nationals may have used Thai intermediaries.

The deputy chief ordered a transparent investigation and said any state official found involved at any stage would face legal action. Region 6 police are gathering the victim's statement, phone data, photographs and contact records to establish whether those arrested were only operational members of a wider network.


Related story

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28 August 2026
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Nong Khai police arrest Nigerian over alleged illegal entry

Immigration police in Nong Khai have arrested a 29-year-old Nigerian man accused of entering and remaining in Thailand without permission, after he was reportedly found waiting for transport near the Lao border.

Mr Chidera Anthony Ejiogu was detained on 27 August after residents reported seeing a foreign man walking in Soi Ruenrom 3, Pho Chai subdistrict, in Nong Khai's Muang district.

Police said checks found no record of his entry into Thailand. He was taken to Nong Khai Immigration for questioning before being handed to investigators at Muang Nong Khai Police Station for legal proceedings.

Alleged plan to cross into Laos

According to immigration police, Mr Ejiogu said he had entered Thailand illegally around two months earlier and had then stayed with his Thai girlfriend, identified as Yuwadee, in Bangkok.



He told officers that he later contacted a male friend in Laos, identified as Akezey N., through WhatsApp. Mr Ejiogu allegedly paid 30,000 baht by transfer to a Siam Commercial Bank account for help arranging an illegal crossing into Laos.

His Lao contact allegedly arranged for a Thai man to collect him outside his accommodation in Soi Nawamin 36. The man drove him to a hotel in Nong Khai, where he was told to wait for someone to take him across the border, police said.

However, officers located and detained him before the alleged onward journey could take place.

Charge filed after immigration check

The operation was led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Theeyaphat Rangsiphramanakul, deputy superintendent of Nong Khai Immigration, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Apichat Koltha, an inspector with the unit, along with other officials.

Mr Ejiogu has been charged with being a foreign national who entered and stayed in the Kingdom without permission. He has been sent to investigators at Muang Nong Khai Police Station for further action under the law.


Pictures courtesy of SiamRath

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28 August 2026
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Nakhon Sawan karaoke owner held over underage trafficking

Police have arrested the 46-year-old owner of a karaoke venue in Nakhon Sawan after an undercover operation allegedly uncovered the sale of sexual services involving girls aged under 18.

Four girls were removed from the premises and referred for protection after the raid in Nong Pling, Mueang Nakhon Sawan district, on Wednesday, 26 August.

Wadi, also known as Ple, whose surname was withheld, faces allegations of child trafficking for sexual exploitation, procuring or taking a person under 18 for indecent purposes, encouraging or allowing children to engage in inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature, and operating an entertainment venue without a licence.

The operation was ordered by Pol Maj Gen Witthaya Sriprasertphap, commander of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division. Officers from Division 4 worked with the International Protection Alliance, or IPA.

Undercover officer arranged alleged booking

Police said they received information that the karaoke venue was bringing in girls under 18 to provide sexual services. An undercover officer was sent in to investigate and, officers said, found that Wadi owned and managed the business, controlled staff, allocated rooms and collected payments.

The undercover officer allegedly arranged sexual services with a 17-year-old girl for 2,000 baht. Payment was made by scanning the venue's QR code, according to police.

The girl was then taken to a room at a resort, where officers identified themselves and arrested Wadi. The 17-year-old was taken into care.

Four girls referred for care

A second team searched the karaoke venue and found Wadi at the counter, along with nine female employees. Checks found that three more girls aged 16 were working there, police said.

That brought the number of people under 18 assisted in the operation to four.

During questioning, Wadi allegedly admitted that the venue deducted 500 baht from the payment received by each girl sent out to meet customers.

She was handed to investigators from Division 4 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division for legal action.

The four girls have been placed into a screening and protection process involving a multi-disciplinary team and the Nakhon Sawan Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office. Authorities said they will receive rehabilitation, psychological support and assistance under child welfare provisions.

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28 August 2026
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Gold shop robbery sparks police hunt in Aranyaprathet

Picture courtesy of Daily News

Police in Sa Kaeo are searching for a man accused of robbing a gold shop inside a shopping centre in Aranyaprathet district shortly after midday on 27 August.

The suspect allegedly threw an object resembling a bomb into the shop, threatened staff with a firearm and escaped with around two trays of gold. Police have not yet established the weight of the gold or the value of the losses.

The robbery was reported at about 12.30pm at the Aranyaprathet branch of a department store. Aranyaprathet is a major border town near Cambodia, used by many travellers and foreign residents moving through the eastern region.



Suspect fled by motorcycle

Initial police information described the suspect as a man wearing a cap, a long-sleeved shirt and jeans. He was said to have left on a motorcycle, heading towards Aranyaprathet town.

In a later update at 1pm, Pol Col Jaturaphat Singhasthit, deputy commander of Sa Kaeo Provincial Police, described the suspect as tall and slim, wearing a black-and-white checked shirt and jeans, with his face fully covered by cloth.



He said the man had approached the shop calmly before throwing the bomb-like object inside. Terrified gold shop employees dropped to the floor for safety, he said.

The suspect then allegedly jumped over the counter, drew a firearm and used it to smash the display cabinets. He reportedly took a large quantity of gold necklaces before leaving through the rear entrance of the shopping centre.

CCTV and escape route under review

Pol Col Damrong Iampaorot, superintendent of the Sa Kaeo Provincial Police investigation division, led provincial investigators to the scene after the report.



Pol Col Jaturaphat and investigation officers later inspected the shop and continued checking the suspected escape route. Police are gathering evidence at the scene and reviewing CCTV footage in an effort to identify the suspect and trace his movements.

Officers have also asked members of the public to watch for the wanted man and provide information that may assist the investigation. Authorities said they are working to identify, locate and arrest him as quickly as possible.

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28 August 2026
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Thailand seeks South Korea E-8 visa solution

Thailand's Labour Minister, Jullapun Amornvivat, has asked South Korea to expand legal job opportunities for Thai workers and help resolve problems surrounding the E-8 seasonal work visa.

Jullapun met South Korean Employment and Labour Minister Kim Young-hoon on 27 August 2026, alongside Labour Ministry permanent secretary Pol Lt Gen Wannapong Khosrakhon and senior ministry officials. Kim was in Thailand for the 29th ASEAN Labour Ministers' Meeting under the ASEAN Plus Three framework, where South Korea attended as an East Asian dialogue partner.

Push for more legal employment routes

Jullapun said Thailand placed great importance on sending workers to South Korea through legal channels, including Seoul's Employment Permit System (EPS).

The talks focused on seeking South Korean support to increase employment opportunities for Thai nationals in agriculture and other occupations where there is demand in the Korean labour market.

The two ministers also agreed to promote exchange programmes and cultural activities intended to improve understanding between Korean employers and Thai employees.

Thailand plans to develop workers' Korean-language, vocational and digital-AI skills through the DSD Online Training platform, which offers more than 300 courses. The stated aim is to prepare Thai workers for future labour-market needs.

E-8 seasonal visa issue

A key issue was the dispatch of seasonal agriculture and fisheries workers under South Korea's E-8 visa. Thai workers from some provinces had previously been suspended from being sent under the scheme after workers absconded from their employers.

Jullapun said Thai authorities had introduced tighter safeguards before departure. These include providing information to workers, issuing certificates of good conduct, training workers on their roles and employment conditions, and establishing systems for monitoring and reporting in.

The measures are intended to allow faster coordination of assistance when needed and give employers greater confidence in workers recruited from Thailand.

South Korea has shown a positive response, according to the Thai Labour Ministry. It has begun referring to the group as workers who are registered or using the wrong type of visa, rather than using the term illegal foreign workers.

Kim said he would act as an intermediary and raise the matter with South Korea's justice minister to seek a practical solution.


Picture courtesy of Khomchadluek

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28 August 2026

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