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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.

Australian's Bangkok ICU care costs $50,000 a week

An Australian man is in a coma in a Bangkok intensive care unit following an accident in Thailand, with his family saying his medical bills have already exceeded $135,000.

Sydney model and Copini Beauty co-founder Casey James said her father had undergone multiple emergency brain operations and had spent 10 days in the ICU as of Sunday, 23 August.

James, 28, said she received a call from Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs telling her that her father had been involved in an accident and was in a Bangkok ICU.

"Within two hours, my husband and I were on a flight to Thailand," she wrote on Instagram.

She gave not further details of the accident, but did state that her father had previously survived a serious motorcycle crash in March 2025, pulling through, after the hospital had described his injuries as life threatening.

Family faces uncertain wait in Bangkok

James said the extent of her father's future needs was not yet known, but described him as "one hell of a fighter".



"My dad has been in a coma for ten days and counting. What his future looks like is unknown," she wrote.

She added that her mother's 57th birthday fell on the day of her post, saying she was sitting in the ICU while remembering her mother, who had died from cancer.

James urged others to hold loved ones close, saying life could change "in a blink of an eye".

ICU and medical evacuation costs mount

A GoFundMe appeal started by James's cousin, Bridgette Pereira, is seeking $250,000 to help cover the man's treatment. It had received well over $36,000 in donations by Sunday.

In a note on the fundraising page, James said more than $135,000 had already been incurred for emergency brain surgery and continuing ICU care.



"The cost of keeping Dad in the ICU is approximately $50,000 per week, and the cost of transporting him safely home to Australia is expected to be around $500,000," she wrote.

Those sums do not include long-term care and rehabilitation expected after he returns to Australia. James said the family had been told he was likely to need ongoing medical support, potentially for life.

A warning over medical cover in Thailand

The case underlines the potentially substantial cost of emergency private hospital treatment and medical evacuation for foreign visitors and residents in Thailand. James has not stated whether her father held travel or health insurance.

Foreigners arranging travel insurance should check the policy's cover for emergency treatment, intensive care, pre-existing conditions and repatriation, as medical evacuation can involve specialist staff and equipment.


Pictures courtesy of Daily Mall

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24 August 2026
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Thailand amnesty law takes effect after Royal Gazette notice

A broad amnesty law covering political cases dating back two decades took effect in Thailand on Sunday, August 23, 2026, after receiving His Majesty the King's endorsement and being published in the Royal Gazette.

The legislation is intended to address long-running political conflict and promote national reconciliation. It could benefit hundreds of activists, with one analyst estimating that between 1,000 and 2,000 people may qualify.

Who can benefit under the law

The amnesty applies to people involved in political rallies or who expressed political opinions where their actions arose from political conflict or political motivations. Its coverage runs from January 1, 2005, to July 16, 2025.

It includes members of the royalist Yellow Shirts and Red Shirts, supporters of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, whose rival movements clashed repeatedly over the past 20 years. Youth protesters involved in the pro-democracy demonstrations of 2020 and 2021 are also covered.

Yutthaporn Issarachai, an analyst at Sukhothai University, told AFP that it was Thailand's largest amnesty because it spans 20 years.

Most people affected have already completed their sentences. However, the law removes restrictions that prevented them from standing for political office, Yutthaporn said.

New trials involving political activists will also be halted where the alleged offences are not among the exemptions. "The bill does not mean to erase their guilt but will return their political rights," Yutthaporn said.

Lese majeste and corruption convictions excluded

The law does not apply to people convicted under Thailand's lese majeste law, which protects His Majesty the King and the Royal Family from criticism. As a result, many leaders of the youth-led protests calling for monarchy reform will not benefit.

Corruption convictions are also excluded. This means the amnesty does not apply to Thaksin, who was released from prison in June under a Royal pardon after serving eight months of a one-year sentence for corruption and abuse of power.

Civil claims are unaffected. Yutthaporn said Yellow Shirt members found guilty of closing airports would still have to pay compensation.

The law is part of Thailand's continuing effort to resolve divisions that have shaped politics since Thaksin was elected prime minister in 2001 and again in 2005, before going into exile following the 2006 military coup.

Thaksin's Pheu Thai party and its predecessors were the country's most successful political force of the 21st century, producing four Shinawatra-family prime ministers and drawing extensive rural support. The party recorded its worst-ever election result in February, falling to third place, but remains in the ruling coalition led by conservative Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.



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24 August 2026
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Samui visa action sought over Palestinian flag row

Surat Thani security officials are seeking visa revocation and deportation for an Israeli restaurant owner and a French businessman after a Palestinian flag dispute on Koh Samui escalated into online threats and concerns for tourism.

Col Thitiphong Inwasa, deputy director of the Internal Security Operations Command in Surat Thani, said on 22 August that officials were preparing information for a provincial committee to consider action against Israeli national Jacob and French national Kevin.

Dispute began at Samui attraction

The row began when an Israeli tourist visited Samui Exotic Park, operated by Kevin, and became involved in an argument with him. Kevin had displayed a Palestinian flag and a sign welcoming Palestinians at the attraction.

Jacob later contacted Kevin and asked him to remove the flag, but Kevin refused. Their exchange was later circulated on social media, bringing the dispute into the public eye and leading to legal action.

The Samui Provincial Court subsequently fined Jacob 5,000 baht and gave him a two-year suspended prison sentence.

Officials said the situation worsened after an Israeli influencer based in France offered a 500,000-baht bounty for information leading to Kevin’s death.

Officials warn of tourism and security impact

According to security officials, the dispute spread widely online and created the impression that Israeli visitors were threatening people on Samui, while local residents were hostile towards Israeli tourists.

They warned that such perceptions could harm Koh Samui's tourism industry and raise security concerns. However, officials stressed that the matter began as a personal dispute between two individuals, not a conflict involving Israeli tourists and local residents.

Authorities also cautioned against attempts to portray the case as a wider anti-Israel issue, saying this could potentially develop into religious or ethnic tensions.

Checkpoints in place since 15 August

Officials cited the pair's failure to cooperate in resolving the dispute, as well as concerns that it could escalate, in seeking the visa review.

Immigration records show Jacob has lived on Koh Samui for about five years on a business visa and operates a restaurant. Kevin, who is married to a Thai woman from Rayong, has lived on the island and run Samui Exotic Park for about nine years.

Samui police have kept security checkpoints outside the attraction and near the two men's homes since 15 August to prevent further confrontations. Authorities said the measures were intended to stop the dispute developing into a wider conflict that could damage Samui's standing as an international tourist destination.

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23 August 2026
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SRTET prepares to take over Airport Rail Link

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has told its Electrified Train Company (SRTET) to prepare to manage the Airport Rail Link if Asia Era One's operating contract ends on September 30.

SRTET, which already operates Bangkok's Red Line commuter service, says it can run the airport line but needs around one month to recruit, organise and prepare staff. The SRT must settle the proposed operating terms by September 1 if the company is to be ready immediately after the current agreement expires.

Air Chief Marshal Kongsak Chandrasopha, an SRTET board member and acting director, said the company had previously managed the Airport Rail Link and was confident about its ability to operate the service.

"We have no concerns about running the Airport Rail Link operationally, since we've managed this project before," he said. "But we do need time to prepare staffing. The fastest option we're looking at is transferring Asia Era One's existing employees over to SRTET, so we can keep the service running without interruption."

Staffing and maintenance plans

SRTET estimates it would require about 300 staff to run the Airport Rail Link. Under the proposal, the company would operate the service and transfer its revenue directly to the SRT, rather than establish a separate subsidiary.

Kongsak said SRTET is waiting for the SRT to finalise both the contract conditions and the payment rate. Should that not happen within the one-month preparation period, the SRT could extend a short-term arrangement with Asia Era One to give SRTET more time.

"If SRTET takes the trains back, we'll need to keep running services for passengers while also pushing through maintenance work," Kongsak said. He added that Siemens could be brought in to support interim maintenance before a full overhaul, meaning some trains could be undergoing work while others remain in service.

High-speed rail deal remains unresolved

SRTET has said it needs clarity on the project's management arrangements before it can inspect assets and rolling stock, and establish the legal basis for taking over. Once the SRT agrees the terms, its board must approve them before they are reported to the Cabinet.

Asia Era One's rights to operate the Airport Rail Link are linked to the joint investment agreement for the high-speed rail project connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao airports. That agreement is under review, with the SRT considering whether to amend or terminate it.

The Eastern Economic Corridor Office has proposed two routes forward and is awaiting a meeting of the EEC Policy Committee, chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

Two possible outcomes

One option is to proceed with amendments previously agreed by the committee, based on an amended draft reviewed by the Office of the Attorney General. The Cabinet would then need to approve the draft before both sides signed a revised agreement.

The alternative is to end the contract if the committee decides it cannot be amended. The SRT and its private partner would then need to consider their legal options.

SRT sources said the agency is awaiting the committee's decision. The private consortium submitted a July 6 request to the SRT to negotiate an end to the contract, arguing that the project cannot continue without an amendment.

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23 August 2026
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Phuket lifeguards rescue tourist at Nai Thon Beach

A female tourist was rescued after entering the sea despite red warning flags at Nai Thon Beach in Phuket, where waves and currents quickly left her unable to stay afloat.

The rescue took place at Nai Thon Beach in Sakhu, Thalang district, on 22 August 2026. Lifeguards pulled the woman from the water after she was knocked unconscious by the surf, before she was helped on the beach and brought to safety.

The incident was shared by the Hod Jang Changwat Phuket Facebook page as a warning to beachgoers.

Lifeguards warned woman before she entered

According to the information released, lifeguards had tried to explain the danger and stop the tourist from going into the water. Red flags had been placed along the beach, signalling that swimming was prohibited because of severe wave and current conditions.


Pictures courtesy of Amarin

The woman nevertheless insisted on entering the sea. She was reported to have said: "I flew here because I wanted to swim."

Lifeguards pointed out the red flags and repeated their warning, but she did not cooperate and walked into the water.

Shortly afterwards, the waves and current overwhelmed her. Lifeguards rushed into the sea, brought her ashore and those at the scene helped care for her while she was unconscious. She eventually regained consciousness.

Red flags are a serious warning

Nai Thon Beach lifeguards said their work is difficult every day because some visitors continue to disregard warnings and attempt to enter the sea in red-flag areas.



For foreign tourists and residents in Phuket, the case is a practical reminder that beach conditions can change rapidly, particularly when rough seas and strong currents are present. Being a confident swimmer does not remove the risk from rip currents or heavy surf, and lifeguards' instructions should be followed immediately.

Officials said the red-and-yellow flag area is set aside at specific points where lifeguards are on duty. It is intended to keep people who insist on swimming within sight of staff, allowing a faster response if an emergency occurs.

Nai Thon Beach is about one kilometre long. Lifeguards warned that visitors who slip into the water outside their working area face an even greater risk of drowning because help may not reach them as quickly.

Stay within lifeguard sight lines

Beach staff urged tourists to respect red flags and follow lifeguard advice strictly. They stressed that the flags are not displayed without reason, but warn of waves and currents which can cause a drowning emergency within minutes.

4903992984185318225.mp4
Video courtesy of Phuketinsta

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23 August 2026


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Chiang Mai city buses to resume on August 31

Chiang Mai's city bus network will return on August 31, after its operator suspended services in July amid soaring fuel costs and low passenger numbers.

Regional Transit Cooperation (RTC), which has operated the service since 2018, said its four buses will again run on the Red, Yellow and Green loop routes. The July suspension was the first interruption to the service in eight years.

"We're Back! Ready for service," RTC said in a Facebook announcement confirming the return date.

Three routes from Chiang Mai airport

All three services begin and end at Chiang Mai airport, operating from 7am until 6.30pm. The fare remains a flat 50 baht per journey.

The airport connection is particularly useful for foreign residents, visitors and newly arrived travellers who want an inexpensive public-transport option to move around the city. However, passengers should note that the network has only four buses and operates within the stated daytime hours, rather than as an airport shuttle running late into the evening.

RTC's current buses use compressed natural gas. The company plans to use electricity for its new fleet.

Fuel costs and low ridership

RTC decided to halt operations in July because of high gas prices and weak ridership, according to a June report by business news outlet Prachachat.

The suspension left regular users without the service during a period when the operator was under pressure from rising running costs.

Passengers responding to the return announcement welcomed the resumption, with many saying reliable arrival times mattered more than more frequent buses. They said an on-time schedule would allow them to plan journeys rather than wait indefinitely at stops.



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23 August 2026
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Nene Royal wins Irish new artist award

Phuket singer-guitarist Nene Royal has been chosen as Best New International Artiste 2026 by The Phil Lynott Convention in Ireland. The 16-year-old, whose real name is Rattikarn Amloy, received the honour on Saturday, August 22.

The award follows her appearances on America's Got Talent Season 21, where her vocals and guitar playing brought her international attention and earned her a place in the competition's Live Shows.

Nene is due to compete in the second live quarter-final of America's Got Talent Season 21 on August 25.

Dublin ceremony celebrates Thin Lizzy legacy

The award presentation will took place at the Button Factory in Temple Bar, Dublin.

The event celebrates Phil Lynott, singer and bassist of the Irish rock band Thin Lizzy, and this year's convention marks 40 years since his death.

Organisers introduced two special awards for the 2026 event. Nene's Best New International Artiste honour recognises her potential as an emerging performer on the international stage and is intended to encourage a new generation of rock artists.

From Phuket busking to a global TV audience

Nene began teaching herself guitar at about six or seven years old. She developed her live performance experience by busking at markets in Phuket before gaining a much wider audience through America's Got Talent.

Her first appearance on the programme featured a rock-based version of The Cranberries' "Zombie". She later performed Muse's "Hysteria" during the Judges' Callbacks.

Those performances helped carry her from local market stages in Phuket to one of television's best-known talent competitions. Her latest recognition in Ireland is another overseas milestone as she continues to develop her music for audiences beyond Thailand.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

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23 August 2026
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Pattaya police arrest Chinese over 'Pot K' drug network

Pattaya police have arrested three Chinese nationals and a Thai woman after early-morning raids allegedly uncovered a network preparing "Pot K" vape products for sale, along with methamphetamine and packaging equipment.

The four suspects were detained after police searched two condominium locations at 5am on 22 August 2026.

The operation was carried out by the Pattaya City Police Station narcotics suppression team under the government's drug-prevention and enforcement policy.

Police identified those arrested as Kun Chen, 39; Wichada, also known as Baiphak, Khumkan, 33; Wei Zhang, 32; and Meiling Zhou, 28. Three are Chinese nationals and one is a Thai woman.

Two Pattaya condominium raids

The raids took place at condominiums near Soi Boon Kanjana 5 and Soi Thappraya 9. The operation was overseen by Chonburi provincial police commander Major General Pongphan Wongmanithet.



Also involved were Colonel Kulchat Kulchai and Colonel Wasurat Chaitheerapat, deputy provincial police commanders, and Colonel Anek Sarathongyu, superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, together with investigation officers.

The search team was led by Police Captain Phubet Ruamsap, deputy inspector with Pattaya police investigators.

Police said they found a large quantity of Pot K pod heads and related items, including mixing liquid, digital scales, packing bags, pod-head packaging, scent-identification stickers, and equipment used to mix and prepare products.

Officers also seized 21 methamphetamine tablets, about 11.5 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 13,000 baht in cash and the suspects' mobile phones. Further equipment allegedly linked to dividing and packaging drugs was also recovered.

Charges and visa issue

Police have initially brought charges connected to the sale of Pot K pods, offences involving e-cigarettes and customs law, as well as drug-related offences.

One of the Chinese suspects was also found to have an expired permission to stay in Thailand. Meiling Zhou tested positive for methamphetamine and was charged with consuming a Category 1 narcotic in breach of the law.

Investigation continues

All four suspects and the seized items were handed to Pattaya City Police Station investigators for legal proceedings.

Police said they will expand the investigation to establish the origin of the Pot K products and drugs, identify any additional people linked to the network, and determine where products may have been distributed.


Picture courtesy of แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง

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23 August 2026
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ATM set alight outside Chachoengsao factory

A 27-year-old man has been detained after an ATM outside a factory in Chachoengsao was set on fire shortly after midnight on 22 August. Police say the man told them he acted following an argument with his pregnant girlfriend and wanted to be sent to prison.

The blaze damaged the bank ATM outside Wisdom Auto Part Co Ltd on Suwinthawong Road, inbound towards Chachoengsao town, in Moo 5, Wang Takhian subdistrict, Mueang district.

Police named the suspect only as Natthawat, 27. Lieutenant Colonel Wanchai Prathom, acting deputy superintendent for prevention and suppression at Mueang Chachoengsao Police Station, and Police Major Phatthana Langfak, the station's prevention and suppression inspector, led officers to detain him.

Fire outside factory could not be initially contained

When officers arrived, flames were burning intensely around the ATM. Factory security guards had attempted to put out the fire with extinguishers, but were unable to contain it because it spread quickly.



A fire engine from Wang Takhian Subdistrict Administrative Organisation later arrived and firefighters brought the blaze under control using water.

Suspect describes argument and claimed motive

Natthawat, who police said appeared dazed during questioning, told officers he had hired a vehicle from Bangkok to visit Luang Pho Chet, the abbot of Wat Thawin Silamongkhon, which is not far from the scene.

After meeting the monk, he said he walked to the front of the factory to rest and telephoned his girlfriend, who is pregnant. The pair argued, and he claimed she challenged him and told him she wanted him to go to prison.



He told police he then decided to retaliate by setting fire to the ATM. According to his account, he collected rubbish from a nearby bin, placed it inside the machine and used a lighter he was carrying to ignite it.

The suspect also claimed he had earlier considered robbing a gold shop, but decided against it because it was late. He said he instead set fire to the ATM because he wanted to be jailed.

Officers said a search found no drugs on Natthawat. However, they found a lighter and a pipe used for taking drugs.

Police took him to Mueang Chachoengsao Police Station to calm down before conducting a urine test for narcotics. Investigators question him further, gather evidence and proceed with legal action.


Pictures courtesy of Amarin

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23 August 2026
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Phuket shop sign bars Israeli tourists, sparks debate

A Phuket shopkeeper has put up a sign barring Israeli tourists from entering, prompting a strong reaction on Thai social media after Phuket Times shared an image of it on Saturday, August 22.

According to a report from Naewna, the shop owner said the move followed a previous confrontation outside the business. The report did not identify the shop or give its precise location on the island.

Owner says sign is intended to prevent disputes

The shopkeeper said: "I was once verbally abused by Israelis in front of my shop. I cursed back that time, but my intention in putting up the sign is to prevent future problems arising from among #Israeli tourists."

Phuket Times had previously said it was preparing to submit a letter to authorities seeking an investigation into Israeli nationals at Patong beach. It cited alleged widespread dissatisfaction with what it called "arrogant" behaviour, including claims that locals had been chased away and outsiders barred from an area believed to have been acquired through nominee networks.

Online commenters call for wider action

After the image was posted, commenters backed the shopkeeper's decision. Some wrote that preventing problems early was the right approach, while others said they would do the same.

Other comments urged similar action across Phuket, with one saying shops should follow suit "until every shop in Phuket is affected". That comment said Thais should not allow foreigners to take advantage of or bully them, and should not welcome people with bad manners.

Several commenters called for Thai unity. Others said government agencies were weak and ordinary people had to protect themselves, while another said Phuket residents should unite because police, local administration and ISOC could not be relied upon.

One final comment urged people to "resist strongly", adding: "If you weaken, you will end up like the Palestinians."

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23 August 2026
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Thai Airways eyes early return of Bangkok-Auckland flights

Thai Airways could resume direct flights between Bangkok and Auckland earlier than its previously planned 2028 timetable, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has said.

Thailand's government is now targeting March 2027 for the route's return, although Ekniti said officials would push for an even earlier launch if the airline's fleet is ready.

He made the comments on 21 August 2026 while visiting light-aircraft company NZAero at its hangar at Ardmore Airport in Auckland, New Zealand.

Government seeks Auckland Airport slots

Ekniti said Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul had told New Zealand's prime minister that Thailand intended to launch the Bangkok-Auckland service in March 2027.

The direct route was among issues discussed by the Thai and New Zealand leaders, according to Ekniti. The government believes it would make travel easier for business, tourism, trade and people-to-people links between the two countries.

The proposed service still depends on Thai Airways having enough aircraft available, particularly under its plans to receive new planes.

Ekniti said he had instructed Lavaron Sangsnit, permanent secretary of the Finance Ministry and chairman of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, to pursue the plan.

Preparatory work has already begun, with the permanent secretary asked to contact Auckland Airport's management about allocating and reserving flight slots in advance. Securing arrival and departure times early would allow the airline to begin services smoothly once its fleet is ready, Ekniti said.

Possible partnership with Air New Zealand

Ekniti also said there was scope for commercial cooperation between Thai Airways and Air New Zealand. Both airlines belong to the Star Alliance network, meaning they could consider a codeshare arrangement to make passenger connections more convenient.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon previously served as chief executive of Air New Zealand, Ekniti noted, and understands the airline industry's business structure and the potential of routes between Thailand and New Zealand.

"We see an opportunity to work together through codeshare rather than viewing this as competition, because it would benefit both sides," Ekniti said. He added that such cooperation could improve links for travel, trade, investment and tourism.

Wider links between Thailand and New Zealand

An earlier return of direct Bangkok-Auckland flights would support economic cooperation as Thailand and New Zealand seek to deepen relations and open new areas of collaboration, Ekniti said.

He identified tourism, agriculture, food, clean energy and investment as areas where the two countries were expanding cooperation.

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23 August 2026
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Russian father seeks missing daughter in Pattaya

A Russian father has asked Bang Lamung police to help find his 19-year-old daughter, who has been out of contact with her family for more than three months. The last reported, unconfirmed sighting of Anna Gorshkova Andreevna was at a hotel resort and villa in the Na Jomtien area on 15 June.

Kirill Gorshkov, 41, filed the report with investigators at Bang Lamung Police Station at 6.20pm on 21 August 2026, seeking help to trace his daughter.

Police have been asked to examine CCTV footage and other relevant information as part of efforts to establish her movements and locate her.

Trip from Russia through China

According to the initial information given to police, Anna left Russia about three months ago after telling her family she was travelling as a tourist.

Her family later learned that she had travelled to China before continuing to Thailand. It was not stated when she arrived in the country or where else she may have stayed.

A foreign national reportedly told the family that a young woman matching Anna's description had been seen on 15 June at a hotel resort and villa in Na Jomtien, Sattahip district, Chon Buri.

Police asked to check CCTV

Mr Gorshkov lodged the report as evidence and asked officers to urgently review security-camera recordings and any other available material linked to the possible sighting.

Anna's father has appealed for her to be found as soon as possible after the family's prolonged loss of contact.


Picture courtesy of ฉลาม นิวส์

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23 August 2026
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Man charged after body found in Bangkok Park pond

Bangkok police have arrested and charged a 38-year-old homeless man with murder after another homeless man was found dead in a pond at Benchasiri Park on Sukhumvit Road.

Thong Lor police said the body of 39-year-old Wichai Kanya, from Kamphaeng Phet, was discovered at about 10pm on August 21 in the pond at the front of the park in Khlong Toei district.

Police, forensic officers, a Chulalongkorn University forensic doctor and Ruamkatanyu Foundation volunteers attended the scene. Wichai was found lying face-up underwater and was pronounced dead after his body was recovered. Officers reported injuries to his body.

CCTV footage from the area reportedly showed an assault, followed by a man dragging the victim and throwing him into the pond.

Arrest made beside Lumphini Park

A witness, Thanwa Thana, told police he saw a short-haired, bearded man assault Wichai at about 9pm, before dragging him to the park pond. The man then reportedly told a park security guard what had happened before leaving.

Security guard Waiyakorn Phetchuay said the man had approached him for help and that he could remember his appearance. He assisted police in reviewing CCTV footage inside the park.

Thong Lor investigators located the suspect, Thaweesak, also known as Tom, Phanngam, on the pavement of Ratchadamri Road beside Lumphini Park in Pathum Wan district at 5.12am on August 22.

Police said he matched the man seen in CCTV footage and initially confessed to the killing. He was charged with murder.

Suspect gives differing accounts

Thong Lor police chief Pol Col Ratthanon Ektitikulpat said both men were homeless, knew each other and regularly drank alcohol together near the front of Benjasiri Park.

Witnesses told police Wichai had been sleeping near the park for around a month. They also alleged that he regularly caused a nuisance while drunk, including masturbating in the park and sleeping there naked.

Police said the pair would beg for money when they had none, then use it to buy alcohol. On the night of the death, they were drinking near the pond before an argument began. Investigators said Wichai became unconscious at the pond's edge before Thaweesak threw him into the water and fled.

When questioned, Thaweesak said the dispute was not about money. He alleged that Wichai had behaved indecently towards tourists in the park and said he did not want him sleeping there again.

Later, while being taken for further questioning, Thaweesak first said he did not wish to make a statement. He then said they had argued, but claimed Wichai had not been unconscious and was "still out of control", adding that he threw him into the water to restrain him.

He said he did not know why Wichai had become agitated, but claimed he had behaved this way before.

Thaweesak was taken to the South Bangkok Criminal Court for detention proceedings. Investigators opposed bail in their application.


Picture courtesy of ThaiRath

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23 August 2026
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Australian frigate HMAS Perth begins Sattahip visit

The Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Perth has arrived at Sattahip for a week-long visit, bringing about 190 personnel for joint activities with the Royal Thai Navy.

The Anzac-class warship is in Thailand as part of Australia's Regional Presence Deployment in the Indo-Pacific. Its programme includes training with Thai naval counterparts and a reception aboard the vessel for representatives from the two countries' defence, government, business and civil society sectors.

HMAS Perth last visited Thailand in 2024. The ship has served with the Royal Australian Navy for 20 years and has modern maritime capabilities for a range of missions.

Training and regional cooperation

Australian Ambassador to Thailand Pablo Kang said the visit would help reinforce practical cooperation between the two nations.

"HMAS Perth's visit provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen practical cooperation and further deepen the longstanding ties between Australia and Thailand," Kang said.

He pointed to the countries' long record of working together in military education and training. Kang said cooperation with regional partners was important in supporting a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Commanding officer Lt Cmdr Dylan White said the crew welcomed the chance to operate alongside the Royal Thai Navy.

"Our deployment aims to strengthen interoperability, build professional relationships and contribute to regional security," White said.

White added that the ship's company valued joint exercises with Thailand and the opportunity to build on the close friendship between the two navies.

Sattahip, on the Gulf of Thailand in Chon Buri province, is home to major Royal Thai Navy facilities. The port call reflects Australia's broader effort to maintain a regular naval presence and partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

No public access arrangements for HMAS Perth were included in the announcement of the visit.


Picture courtesy of Khaosod

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23 August 2026
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Thai court uses law to dismiss bad-faith SLAPP cases

Thailand's Criminal Court is using Section 161/1 of the Criminal Procedure Code to filter out criminal complaints filed in bad faith, including strategic lawsuits against public participation, or SLAPP cases.

The provision allows judges to dismiss a complaint at the initial review stage where it appears intended to intimidate a defendant or place an unfair burden on them, rather than proceed to trial.

Jiraphat Phanthawi, chief judge of the Criminal Court, described the measure as an important tool against SLAPP litigation during a seminar on legal knowledge and judicial procedures for media representatives.

Such cases can arise from ordinary disputes, politically related matters and defamation complaints involving journalists, he said.

Early review of complaints

The court examines whether a complaint was lodged dishonestly. Where this is clear from the filing, judges may throw out the case during the initial review.

If the purpose behind a complaint is not immediately evident, the court can make further inquiries or order a court case officer to collect additional facts. Judges may also take account of whether the conduct at the heart of a complaint, including journalistic reporting, was in the public interest.

Jiraphat said legal action was sometimes brought against reporters covering grey-business interests or criminal networks. Even where journalists can ultimately defend their work, court proceedings demand time and require them to gather evidence.

He stressed that the court must remain impartial and cannot step in on either side's behalf.

Takedown petitions and specialist courts

People harmed by the publication of damaging images or other content can submit a petition directly to the Criminal Court under its "Take It Down" mechanism. About 50 to 60 petitions have been filed so far.

In technology-crime cases, the court also considers applications to block websites or URLs considered to affect national security. More than 600,000 URLs have been blocked through that process.

This is particularly relevant to publishing, sharing or operating online content in Thailand: online material can be subject to court takedown applications and website-blocking procedures, alongside any separate criminal complaint.

The Criminal Court handles major investigations involving agencies including the Department of Special Investigation, the Central Investigation Bureau and the Crime Suppression Division. Many cases involve complex evidence or organised criminal networks.

Its specialist divisions cover narcotics, human trafficking and technology crime. The court's Rights and Liberties Protection Centre provides legal information to suspects, defendants and victims to help them make informed decisions about exercising their rights.

The court also uses the centre and its spokesperson team to explain legal rights and judicial procedures to the public.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

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23 August 2026
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Narathiwat curfew imposed after attacks across Deep South

Narathiwat Task Force imposed an overnight curfew from 10.15pm on 22 August 2026 until 6am on 23 August, following a series of reported security incidents across the province.

The measure came after unrest was reported in Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani, including explosions, arson, attacks on local government premises and shops, and the burning of tyres on roads. Authorities are continuing to inspect affected areas and gather details.

Curfew and road restrictions

Narathiwat Task Force said people were prohibited from leaving their homes during the curfew to allow officers to secure incident sites, conduct checks and prevent further attacks.

Sungai Kolok district also tightened security following an explosion near the provincial Land Transport Office branch. Roads into and out of the town, as well as adjoining areas, were temporarily closed while officers inspected the scene, screened people and vehicles, and sought to prevent further incidents.

Residents were asked to remain at home and avoid travel unless necessary.

At least 11 significant locations in Narathiwat were cited in initial reports. They included Buket Bueroh village and Bongor Subdistrict Administrative Organisation in Ra-ngae district; the boundary route between Maruebo Tok and Chaloem subdistricts in Ra-ngae; Skupa village in Si Sakhon; and Thamniap village in Mueang Narathiwat.

Other reported sites included the Bajoh Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, the bypass road towards Narathiwat Airport, and Thung Kha on the route into Narathiwat town, where tyres were burned.

Incidents reported across the province

An explosion was reported near the boundary between Kampong Pareh village, Moo 8, Maruebo Tok, and Kuching Luepa village, Moo 4, Chaloem. There were initially no reports of injuries.



A power pole was reportedly bombed at Ai Tue Ngo, before the Skupa three-way junction in Si Sakhon. Arson was also reported at Chang Phueak Subdistrict Administrative Organisation in Chanae district.

Further reports included an incident at a roadside shelter outside the Sungai Kolok Land Transport Office branch at Ban Kualo Sira, Pasemat subdistrict, on the Sungai Kolok-Muno route. No injuries or deaths were initially reported there.

A roadside shelter on Highway 42 at Ban Kubu, Phrai Wan subdistrict, Tak Bai district, was also reported to have been burned.

Public asked not to share live security locations

Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 Forward Command urged the public to be more vigilant, avoid incident locations and officially designated control zones, and not approach or move suspicious objects.

It also asked people not to post real-time photos, video or the locations of security operations, warning that this could affect public safety and efforts to trace those responsible.

Anyone spotting suspicious people, vehicles or objects can contact ISOC Region 4 Forward Command on 1341, or call 191.


Pictures courtesy of Daily News

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23 August 2026
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American held after Bangkok officer slashed in the neck

A 29-year-old American man has been arrested after a police officer was seriously injured in the neck while intervening in an alleged theft at a convenience store in Bangkok's Suea Pa district on 22 August 2026.

Police identified the suspect as Alexander Troy Lopez, a US national. He was detained in less than 30 minutes after the attack and faces initial charges of attempted murder of an officer on duty and an offence relating to robbery.

Officer injured while stopping alleged theft

Police at Plap Phla Chai 2 station were alerted to an alleged theft at a convenience store on Phadung Dao Road. Lieutenant Prasarn Somkhanay, deputy traffic inspector at Phra Ratchawang police station, was patrolling the area by motorcycle when he came across the reported crime.

He was the first officer to intervene after members of the public had alerted authorities and attempted to follow the suspect.



During the intervention, police said the foreign man used a yellow box cutter to slash Lt Prasarn in the neck, as he approached on his motorcycle, causing a deep wound. The suspect then ran towards Suea Pa Plaza.

Members of the public and officers assisted Lt Prasarn before he was taken to Klang Hospital. He remains under treatment but is now in a safe condition, police said.

Suspect found near Suan Mali junction.

Metropolitan Police Division 6, under the direction of Major General Chaikrit Pho-a, brought together detectives, patrol officers and traffic police to trace the escape route.



Investigators from Plap Phla Chai 1 police station questioned people in the area and received information that the suspect had been seen walking towards the Suan Mali junction.

Police searched the surrounding area and found him hiding at a temporary shelter beside the road. Officers from Plap Phla Chai 1 and Chakkrawat police stations took him into custody and seized a yellow box cutter believed to have been used in the attack.

Lopez was taken to Plap Phla Chai 1 police station for questioning. Police said his initial responses were confused and he was not fully cooperative, leading officers to assess that he might be intoxicated. Tourist Police interpreters were called to help communicate with him.


Pictures courtesy of Amarin

Drug result awaits medical confirmation

A preliminary urine test found methamphetamine in his system, police said. Officers took Lopez to Police General Hospital for a medical examination, blood testing and confirmation by doctors before deciding whether to add drug-related charges.

Police are also checking his background, immigration status and evidence from the scene, including witness accounts and CCTV footage.

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22 August 2026
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Hat Yai student apologises over school shooting threat

A 14-year-old former student has apologised after posting online threats to carry out a shooting at a school in Hat Yai district of Songkhla province. Police questioned the boy and his parents and seized an item later identified as a replica gun.

The Matthayom 2 pupil had already been expelled from the school when he posted photographs showing himself holding what appeared to be a firearm. The posts included threats against the school, its teachers and a teacher identified as Ubol.

"I’m going to carry out a shooting at T.3, especially Kru Ubol. I’ll shoot every one of them," one post said. Another read: "See you at Tor Shor Tor 3. School shooting. I’ll shoot everyone at the school."

Teachers and pupils reported the messages to police on Friday 21 August 2026, amid fears that the post could be a copycat threat following the recent shooting at Debsirin Nonthaburi School.

Police trace boy and seize replica gun

Hat Yai police chief Pol Lt Col Macha Kaewthong ordered investigators to find the teenager. Officers then brought the boy and his parents in for questioning.

Police seized the object shown in the online photographs and later established that it was a replica gun.

The teenager told officers he had written the posts impulsively and had never intended to carry out an attack. He denied holding a grudge against Ubol, his former homeroom teacher.

He said he had named her only after someone commenting on his post asked him to identify a teacher. The boy apologised to Ubol for causing her fear.

Ubol said she was shocked to find her name in the post. She said the student had failed several subjects while in Matthayom 2, and that she had contacted him to attend remedial classes and examinations in an effort to allow him to progress to Matthayom 3.

"It is normal for teachers to ask students to sit remedial exams so they can move on to the next level," she said.

Ubol said the boy may have considered her actions too strict. Because of the threat to shoot everyone at the school, she chose to lodge a police complaint as a precaution.

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22 August 2026
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Cambodian trafficking suspect held in Sattahip

Thai immigration police have arrested a 41-year-old Cambodian man at Sattahip fishing pier in Chon Buri after locating him through an Interpol Red Notice linked to human trafficking and sexual exploitation allegations.

Rin Ran was detained at the Sattahip fish market pavilion in Moo 1, Sattahip district, at 1pm on 21 August 2026. Police said he had been working on a fishing boat in the area after allegedly fleeing to Thailand.

The operation was ordered by Chon Buri Immigration chief Pol Col Naphatphong Khositsuriyamanee and his deputy, Pol Lt Col Kawinwat Arayasuriwong. Pol Lt Col Kittiphat Hongchuawet and Pol Capt Pramot Fueangfung led the investigation and arrest team.

Interpol alert led police to Sattahip

Thailand's Foreign Affairs Division had been contacted by Interpol about a Cambodian suspect wanted in a trafficking case who was believed to be hiding in Sattahip.

Immigration Bureau commissioner Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonyalak and Immigration Division 3 commander Pol Maj Gen Songprod Suriyasu then instructed Chon Buri immigration officers to trace him.


Picture courtesy of แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง

Investigators later found that Rin Ran was employed aboard a fishing vessel near Sattahip pier. Officers surrounded the area and took him into custody.

Workers promised 12,000 baht a month

According to the arrest warrant, Rin Ran and alleged accomplices recruited numerous victims in Cambodia between 2018 and 2019. They were offered fishing-boat work at Prachuap Khiri Khan port in Thailand, with a promised monthly wage of 12,000 baht.

The victims were allegedly brought into Thailand and handed to accomplices in the destination country. Their passports were reportedly seized, their freedom restricted, and they were threatened, assaulted and forced to work on fishing boats.

Some workers later escaped when vessels docked, but were arrested by Thai police. They were subsequently released and returned to Cambodia, where the alleged victims later joined together to file complaints.

The case led to the warrant for Rin Ran, who faces charges carrying a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Visa cancellation and return to Cambodia planned

Chon Buri Immigration Police said they are preparing to revoke the suspect's visa before sending him back to Cambodia for legal proceedings.

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22 August 2026
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Five held over unlicensed dental and medical work

Five people accused of providing dental or medical services without licences have been arrested in Bangkok, Samut Sakhon and Samut Prakan, police said. More than 1,058 items of dental and medical equipment, materials and unregistered medicines worth over 330,000 baht were seized.

The Central Investigation Bureau's Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD), Samut Sakhon public health officials and other agencies searched five premises on August 20.

Four suspects were arrested over alleged unlicensed dental work, while a fifth was accused of practising medicine without a licence. All were transferred to CPPD investigators for further legal proceedings, with the four dental suspects admitting the charges, according to police.



Home and roadside dental services

Police said some of the services were being offered from adapted homes and roadside premises, including dentures, retainers and fashion braces.

In Krathum Baen district of Samut Sakhon, officers found a 30-year-old woman allegedly fitting fashion braces for a customer using a mouth retractor and dental etching solution.

She reportedly told officers that she had taught herself procedures through YouTube, practised on her own teeth and then promoted the service on social media. Police said she earned more than 15,000 baht a month.



Nearby, a 61-year-old man was found who had worked in a dental laboratory around 30 years ago. He was accused of using that experience to take dental impressions and make dentures at home for local people and healthcare facilities, reportedly earning 40,000 to 50,000 baht monthly.

A 44-year-old woman, formerly a dental technician at a private company, was also accused of taking impressions and making retainers from her home. Police said she charged almost 10,000 baht per course.

In Bangkok's Bang Khen district, officers arrested a 56-year-old woman while she was allegedly making and repairing dentures for a customer at a roadside dental shop. More than 500 resin dentures and dental equipment were seized.



She said she had previously worked in a dental laboratory and had run the roadside business for more than five years, serving about four to five customers a day.

Vitamin drip case in Bang Phli

The fifth arrest was at a beauty clinic in Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan. Police said a 26-year-old woman was administering an intravenous vitamin drip without a doctor supervising the clinic.

Although she holds a bachelor's degree in nursing, police accused her of practising medicine without a licence. Vitamin drip equipment and unregistered medicines were also seized.


Pictures courtesy of CIB

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22 August 2026
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Anutin rejects claims Japanese firms are leaving Thailand

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has rejected reports that Japanese manufacturers are shifting production out of Thailand, saying his government will support long-established investors and the country's conventional automotive industry.

Speaking in Wellington, New Zealand, on 21 August, Anutin said Japan remained especially important to Thailand after using the country as a major manufacturing base for decades. Japanese businesses are deeply embedded in Thailand's industrial sector, he said.

The government values investors from every country and is ready to adjust business conditions and remove barriers to maintain Japanese confidence, according to Anutin.

"The government's core policy is to remain open and improve various conditions to make business operations more flexible under our good relationship, so that we can achieve sustainable growth and long-term economic cooperation and maintain Japan's strong production base in Thailand," he said.

Thailand's established car industry

Anutin said the automotive sector was particularly significant because Japanese brands manufacture most vehicle components in Thailand, including engines, bodies, chassis and other systems.

"This is something we cannot abandon, and we must ensure that investors do not abandon Thailand either," he said.

He added that Japanese companies had operated in Thailand for so long that the countries' automotive production systems had become closely intertwined.

"We are ready to ease obstacles to reassure them that we have not abandoned them. It cannot be a situation where we give them everything when we need them, but once they are doing well, we later add more conditions," Anutin said.

EV measures to be reviewed

The prime minister said he had instructed Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas to review measures applying to investors from different countries.

The aim is to ensure Japan's automotive industry is not disadvantaged as Japanese firms move into Thailand's electric vehicle sector, while maintaining fair competition and confidence among carmakers of different nationalities.

Anutin acknowledged that EV manufacturers initially import many parts. However, he said local supply chains for batteries, computer systems and other components were expected to emerge as production requirements encouraged companies to establish operations in Thailand.

Anutin also said political and economic stability would remain central to attracting and retaining investment.

Investment figures cited

He pointed to foreign investment figures as evidence that confidence had not weakened. Foreign investment exceeded 1 trillion baht last year, he said, while actual foreign investment had reached about 530 billion baht in the first half of 2026.

"Since this government took office, foreign investment in Thailand has increased," Anutin said, adding there was no indication that production bases were leaving or that investment was slowing because Thailand was unprepared.

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22 August 2026
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Bangkok student hurt in knife attack over pay dispute

A university student suffered a facial wound after she was allegedly attacked with a Stanley knife by a classmate at a Bangkok dormitory on August 18, following a dispute over unpaid commission from a part-time job.

The victim has filed a complaint at Nong Chok Police Station and sought help from the non-profit organisation Saimai Survive. She said she feared the fellow student could attack again, after allegedly threatening to throw acid at her.

Dispute began over Facebook job commission

According to the victim, the accused was a student in the same faculty who had asked her to work as an administrator for her business's Facebook page, replying to customer messages.



They reportedly agreed to a daily wage of 1,500 baht, with additional commission if the required target was met. After six days, the victim decided that the work was unsuitable and messaged her classmate to resign, while also raising the issue of commission she said had not been paid.

The pair arranged to meet and settle the disagreement, but an argument followed when they could not reach a resolution.

Footage shared by the victim shows the two students facing each other outside her room. The suspect, dressed in pink pyjamas, was holding the Stanley knife throughout the confrontation, according to the report.

The victim said her classmate suddenly cut her face, leaving a long wound running from her eye to her mouth. Images of the injury were also provided to Saimai Survive.

Alleged acid threat raises safety fears

Before leaving, the alleged attacker demanded that the victim return any commission she had previously received, the victim said. She also alleged that the student threatened an acid attack.


Pictures courtesy of Workpoint News

Police reportedly told the victim they could not take further action until medical examination results were available. Worried by the alleged threat, she returned to her home province before approaching Saimai Survive for support.

After the case became public, the superintendent of Nong Chok Police Station said investigators were tracking down the alleged attacker. Police also invited university representatives to give statements, as the investigation continues.

The superintendent said the offence could carry a more serious penalty if the medical examination concludes that the victim suffered facial disfigurement.

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22 August 2026
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UK woman convicted over Thailand cannabis smuggling

A mother from Worcestershire has been convicted for her part in an operation that attempted to bring 460kg of cannabis from Thailand into Britain in 22 suitcases.

Paige Crisp, 24, of Malvern, was among a group stopped by Border Force at Birmingham Airport on August 9, 2024, after travelling from Thailand via France. The cannabis, a Class B drug in the UK, was valued at GBP13.8 million.

Suitcases carried 20kg each

The group had flown from Birmingham to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris before continuing to Thailand. National Crime Agency officers became suspicious after four members travelled from Birmingham with two large suitcases each.



On the return journey, each gang member had two large cases, each containing over 20kg of cannabis. The luggage was so heavy that the group paid excess baggage charges at Bangkok Airport to place it in the aircraft hold.

Investigators found a thin layer of clothing placed over vacuum-packed cannabis in the bags. Eight Apple AirTag trackers, all linked to the same Apple ID, were also recovered.

Three due to be sentenced in October

Crisp was convicted on August 19 of attempting to carry, remove, deposit, harbour, keep, conceal and deal with Class B drugs with intent to evade prohibition on importing.


Gideon Olumoyegun with suitcases prior to return flight

She was one of the final three members of the group to be convicted at Birmingham Crown Court. Crisp appeared alongside Tasia Nelson, 22, of Newquay, Cornwall, and Jaden Ramen, 23, of Merton, London. The three are due to be sentenced on October 22.

Carsten Kyei, 21, of Plaistow, London, and Nathan Vitorino, 26, of Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, were found guilty after a three-week trial on May 26.

Bradley Lloyd, 27, of Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester, and Lewis Ross, 35, of Bolton, Lancashire, changed their pleas to guilty during that trial. Claire McCullough, 36, of Wythenshawe; Ryan Boachie, 32, of Edmonton; Gideon Oluwasetemi Olumoyegun, 26, of Dagenham; and Jamal Clarke, 22, of Mile End, had pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing.


Lewis Ross in conversation with Lloyd at Birmingham Airport

Kyei, Vitorino, Boachie, Olumoyegun, Ross, Lloyd and McCullough are to be sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court on September 3.

Agencies warn prospective couriers

NCA senior investigating officer Paul Boniface said the operation involved extensive planning and co-ordination of flights and luggage. He thanked Border Force for stopping the drugs and warned anyone approached to smuggle drugs that they would face justice.

Adam Chatfield, head of Border Force Midlands Command, said the convictions should be a "stark warning" and that those involved now faced serious criminal records affecting job prospects and life chances.


Pictures courtesy of Daily Mall

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22 August 2026
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TikTok launches new anti-scam campaign in Thailand

TikTok has launched the third season of its ThaisAware anti-scam campaign in Thailand, working with 13 government and civil-society organisations to address deepfake, online-shopping and financial fraud.

The campaign comes after people in Thailand lost nearly 9 billion baht to online scam networks in the first six months of 2026, according to the Thailand Consumers Council (TCC). More than 170,000 cases were recorded, with average losses above 52,000 baht per case.

For foreign residents and visitors, the message is equally relevant: transactions moved outside an established platform, especially through unfamiliar payment links, can remove refund and buyer-protection options and make recovery of money far harder.

Three layers of online protection

The 2026 campaign is built around a "three-layer digital shield". The first, "Think before you trust", focuses on AI-driven scams and deepfakes, with support from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES), Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) and AOC 1441.

The second layer, "Check before you pay", advises consumers to verify sellers, product details, safety standards, certifications and consumer rights before buying. It also aims to help users spot counterfeit, substandard and illegal goods.

This part is led by the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI), Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) and TCC.

The final layer, "Spot the risk before falling victim", covers investment fraud and fraudulent money-transfer schemes. The Bank of Thailand (BOT), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and Cofact lead that work.

Scam tactics are becoming more sophisticated

Chanida Klyphun, TikTok's Director of Public Policy and Government Relations for Southeast Asia, said digital literacy was the main foundation for user protection.

"Scammers are constantly evolving. They are using new methods and increasingly systematic and sophisticated schemes. That is why ThaisAware Season 3 was created," she said.

Chanida said TikTok's work with regulators, financial agencies and civil-society groups helps it identify emerging scam terminology and techniques. This information can then be used to respond through technology and human oversight.

She warned that consumers can be tempted by immediate savings, such as a 20% discount offered for taking an online-shopping transaction outside a platform. Once money is sent directly, platform payment, return and refund protections may no longer apply.

TikTok is continuing to promote its "Stop, Think, Decide, Act" principle, urging users to pause before believing content, sharing information or transferring money.

ThaisAware reaches its third year

ThaisAware began in 2024 with eight partners and expanded to 12 in its second year. TikTok said related video views rose from 3.4 billion in the first season to 17 billion in the second, while partner agencies saw a noticeable fall in people becoming victims after viewing educational content.

TISI is the 13th partner for the 2026 campaign, themed "Stay Alert. Stay Ahead of Digital Threats". TikTok aims to reach more than 50 million users in Thailand through educational videos, creator collaborations and a "Safe or Scam" interactive activity using #ThaisAware.

The platform is also highlighting back-end safety systems, automatic privacy settings and screen-time management features for users under 18.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

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22 August 2026

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Israeli couple blame Thai lawyer after Koh Samui arrest

An Israeli property developer and his wife, arrested in a Koh Samui investigation into alleged nominee-shareholder arrangements, say a Thai lawyer and accountant were responsible for guiding their business setup.

Gal Bieber, 45, and his wife Roni Bieber were arrested by police from Bo Phut Police Station and Surat Thani Immigration. The Samui Provincial Court had reportedly issued 20 arrest warrants for Israeli nationals linked to the wider investigation.

Roni Bieber denied the accusations in an interview with The Jerusalem Post, saying she and her husband had intended to comply with Thai laws and had followed advice from local professionals.

"We respect Thai law and the authorities. All our actions were accompanied by a Thai lawyer and accountant who told us how to do everything and accompanied us when the companies were opened, and the businesses were established.

"We placed our full trust in them and did as they instructed, but when the law changed, they disappeared and took no responsibility, and because they are Thai, they are free from law enforcement," Roni said.

Police allege nominee ownership structure

Investigators reportedly found that Thai nationals had been named as shareholders in companies in order to conceal foreign ownership of land, property and businesses restricted under Thai law.

According to local reports, Israeli nationals were the largest group of foreigners targeted in the operation.

Police allege that Bieber's network used Thai shareholders in a corporate structure to acquire, develop and rent luxury properties on Koh Samui. Many of those properties were marketed towards Israeli customers.

The investigation further alleges that businesses were operated without the required permissions, including an international school and luxury pool villas.

Authorities are continuing to examine financial transactions and investigate other people allegedly involved in the network. Officials are also working to seize and freeze assets connected to the case.

What the case means for foreign investors

The case is a reminder for foreigners buying property or establishing companies in Thailand that local professional advice does not, by itself, determine whether a business structure complies with Thai law.

Roni Bieber said all shareholders, including the Thai nationals, took part in the business activities. The Jerusalem Post reported that she and Gal Bieber had been released on bail while the investigation continues.

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22 August 2026
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