Skip to content
View in the app

A better way to browse. Learn more.
ASEAN NOW

A full-screen app on your home screen with push notifications, badges and more.

To install this app on iOS and iPadOS
  1. Tap the Share icon in Safari
  2. Scroll the menu and tap Add to Home Screen.
  3. Tap Add in the top-right corner.
To install this app on Android
  1. Tap the 3-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the browser.
  2. Tap Add to Home screen or Install app.
  3. Confirm by tapping Install.

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.

Queen Suthida trains for Gripen solo flight in Surat Thani

Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana has begun a Gripen fighter flight-training programme at Wing 7 in Surat Thani, with the course expected to move through to a possible solo flight.

The privately undertaken Royal Thai Air Force programme started on Thursday, August 20, and is scheduled to continue until September 4. Reports said that, if completed successfully, it could make Queen Suthida the first reigning queen to fly a fighter aircraft.

Flight instructors and aviation specialists are supervising the training and guiding Her Majesty through the Air Force's standard stages.

Training at Thailand's Gripen base

Wing 7 is the principal operating base for Thailand's Gripen 39 C/D fleet. Before beginning the fighter programme, Queen Suthida made several private visits to the Surat Thani base, studying the aircraft's technical systems and speaking with operational pilots.

Her preparation also included training on the L-39 advanced jet trainer at the Royal Thai Air Force Flying Training School in Kamphaeng Saen district, Nakhon Pathom. She also completed several simulator sessions, including recent training at the Royal Thai Air Force facility in Don Mueang.

The Air Force marked 15 years since the Gripen 39 C/D fighters and Saab 340 airborne early-warning aircraft entered Thai service at Wing 7 in July 2026.

Aviation qualifications span military and civilian flying

Queen Suthida has extensive military and civilian aviation experience, having completed aviation courses with both the Royal Thai Air Force and Royal Thai Army before undertaking further training in Germany.

She completed the Royal Thai Air Force Civilian Aviation Course on December 8, 2010, flying a Cessna T-41. On January 16, 2011, she completed the Army Fixed-Wing Aviation Cadet Course at the Army Aviation School, also using a Cessna T-41.

On December 6, 2012, Her Majesty completed an aviation course at the Royal Thai Air Force Flying Training School, flying CT-4E and PC-9 aircraft.

Her subsequent German training included a Private Pilot Licence covering the Cessna 172, Mooney M-20 and Piper PA-34 Seneca. She also gained a Commercial Pilot Licence with a Boeing 737 type rating and Airline Transport Pilot Licence theory qualification.

Queen Suthida later obtained an Airline Transport Pilot Licence from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and has served as co-pilot aboard royal Boeing 737-400 and Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

The Gripen programme marks a further move from civilian, military-training and commercial aircraft towards an operational fighter platform.


Picture courtesy of The Nation


Join the discussion?


22 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Pattaya firms raided in foreign nominee probe

Thai authorities have searched three locations in Pattaya and Bang Lamung as part of an investigation into suspected Thai nominee arrangements used to hold land and run businesses for foreigners.

The operation on 21 August was led by Deputy Interior Minister Waris Leangprasert and Justice Minister Police Lieutenant General Rutthaphon Naowarat. It involved the Department of Provincial Administration's (DÒPA) special operations unit, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and police.

Search warrants were issued by the Criminal Court under the Foreign Business Act 1999. The investigation centres on suspected use of Thai nationals as proxy shareholders in companies said to be ultimately controlled by foreigners.

The authorities said the inquiry followed earlier checks on Koh Phangan and Koh Samui in Surat Thani, and Phuket.

Three Pattaya targets searched

Investigators searched the KT International Law and Business office, in Soi Post Office, Pattaya Beach Soi 13, in Pattaya, which they suspect handled the registration of Cozy Beach View Co Ltd.



Officials alleged that staff from the law office had been named as shareholders on behalf of the company's real foreign owners. Documents and other evidence were seized for further examination.

The second target was Shilat Avenue Pattaya hotel, off Soi Buakhao, another legal entity which used the same law office for company registration. Investigators said employees of the office were named among the company's founders.

A deeper check reportedly found changes to the shareholder list linked to Lotus Paradise Development Co Ltd. Authorities also identified a shareholder with work history in the aluminium sales business in Samut Sakhon, which they said pointed to a complex nominee network involving several legal entities.

The third target was Cozy Beach View Co Ltd in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung. Authorities said an Israeli investor was a company director and that its shareholder structure appeared to have used Thai nationals as nominees since 2010.

Officials said there were significant director and shareholder links between Cozy Beach View and Lotus Paradise Development. The companies were said to have combined assets worth several hundred million baht.

What foreign investors should know

The raid is a reminder that foreign nationals cannot simply use Thai friends, employees or service providers to bypass restrictions on land ownership or business activities reserved for Thais.

Thailand's Foreign Business Act regulates foreign participation in a range of businesses. Using Thai nominees to conceal foreign control can expose all involved parties - including foreign investors, Thai shareholders and advisers - to investigation.

Authorities said the searches were conducted under court warrants to secure business documents and electronic communications. Computer equipment and documents were seized and frozen for forensic examination.

Waris said the Interior Ministry would work closely with the DSI to identify everyone involved and would enforce the law strictly. The officials stressed that the investigation remains focused on gathering evidence to establish relationships and conduct within the suspected network.


Pictures courtesy of Matichon

Join the discussion?


22 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thai Airways TG921 declares emergency after fault

A Thai Airways flight from Frankfurt to Bangkok returned safely to Frankfurt Airport on Friday, August 21, after declaring an emergency shortly after take-off.

Flight TG921, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER registered HS-TKK, had left Frankfurt at 14:45 local time for Suvarnabhumi Airport when the crew encountered a hydraulic problem involving the left main landing gear.

Hydraulic problem after departure

The left main gear did not retract after the aircraft became airborne, prompting the pilots to stop their climb at 13,000 feet and declare an emergency with air traffic control.

As the aircraft had been fully fuelled for the long-haul service to Bangkok, the crew remained near Frankfurt to reduce its landing weight. The Boeing 777 spent about 25 minutes in a holding pattern while fuel was jettisoned.

It then made a safe landing on Frankfurt's runway 25C, around one hour and 20 minutes after departure. Emergency services were positioned at the airport as a precaution.

The aircraft taxied under its own power to a remote stand, where passengers disembarked safely. No injuries among passengers or crew were reported.


Picture courtesy of One and More Aviation

Join the discussion?


22 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

US mother arrested in Bangkok, son reunited with father

An American woman wanted in an US parental kidnapping case has been arrested in Bangkok after allegedly hiding with her eight-year-old son for nearly two years.

The 45-year-old, identified only as Linda, was detained at accommodation in Bangkok's Prawet district on August 19. Thai immigration officers found the boy with her and said he was safe.

Arrest followed Oregon custody case

The case began in early 2025 after Linda separated from her former husband, Hassan Mamoud. A US court in Oregon awarded Mamoud custody of their son, citing concerns over Linda's reported alcohol dependence and mental health issues.

Linda later allegedly took the child away from his father. Mamoud reported his son missing to police, hired a private investigator and launched a website aimed at finding him.


Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid

He spent more than a year searching, as the case attracted widespread attention in the United States.

FBI officials later received information indicating that Linda was in Thailand. The agency worked with Thai immigration authorities, who revoked her permission to remain in the country before locating her in Prawet.

Child reunited with his father

Immigration officers went to the accommodation and arrested Linda. Officials contacted relevant agencies to arrange protection and welfare services for the child before he was reunited with Mamoud.

Thai authorities have not released further details about how long Linda and her son had been in Thailand, or the arrangements that led to their stay in Bangkok. Legal proceedings are still ongoing.

AQM5sXVBHKDvfb30TxTVOlbAbjAQuxFd4Zk5-0GFR9yMGI3z0TthMQp7E1gE8unPbXKcfNp0uX-doQ6y3XiMScHtBl9Sgpq82DDLy7JLtQ.mp4

Join the discussion?


22 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thailand and New Zealand sign first cultural pact

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul received a traditional Maori welcome in Auckland on 21 August 2026, before Thailand and New Zealand exchanged their first agreement on cultural cooperation.

The official visit, accompanied by his wife, comes as the two countries mark 70 years of diplomatic relations and seek to elevate ties to a Strategic Partnership. It is the first official visit to New Zealand by a Thai prime minister in 13 years.

Maori welcome at Government House

At 10am local time at New Zealand's Government House in Auckland, five hours ahead of Thailand, Anutin and his wife were greeted by the resident Maori elder, or Kaumatua, and senior Maori woman, or Kuia. They exchanged the customary hongi, touching noses.

The Prime Minister then took part in the Wero, a Maori ritual in which a warrior places a carved object on the ground for a visitor to pick up, signalling peaceful intentions. This was followed by the Karanga ceremonial call of welcome and a Haka performance.



New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his wife then received the Thai delegation. The military band played the Thai and New Zealand national anthems, after which Anutin inspected the guard of honour.

Inside Government House, Anutin signed the visitors' book before the two leaders and their spouses took photographs and exchanged commemorative gifts.

At 10.30am, Anutin and Luxon held a small-group discussion on the future direction of bilateral relations following the move towards a Strategic Partnership. They also discussed their countries' role in supporting regional peace, stability and prosperity, as well as economic strength and people-to-people links. A full delegation meeting was scheduled at 11am.

Five-year agreement for arts and heritage

The cultural cooperation agreement was exchanged in the presence of both prime ministers during Anutin's official visit to Australia and New Zealand.

Thai Culture Minister Sabida Thaised represented Thailand, while New Zealand Trade and Investment, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay, also an associate foreign affairs minister, represented New Zealand Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Paul Goldsmith.


Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath

Sabida said it was the first cultural agreement between the two countries. The five-year framework originated from a Thai initiative in 2021, and Thailand's Cabinet approved the draft on 18 August 2026.

It covers visual and performing arts, fine and applied arts, crafts, museums, archaeology, architecture, cultural heritage, anthropology, ethnology, film and video, history, literature, and cultural and creative industries. It also permits other areas of cooperation agreed by both sides.

Relevant agencies will now develop an action plan, including exchanges of personnel and knowledge, cultural projects, museum and heritage work, and support for film and creative industries.

AQNiac_mCPAeOKBRNWO627MtGyWccuV2FXSP6-CQlEaoko95TUS6nCDjeHoVFN7D_cNRmf6Su0emcDafCQ-UESW7ZmcKTx4BxhqHblN-Jg.mp4

Join the discussion?


22 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thailand sets mobile quake alerts, watches 16 faults

Thailand has set earthquake thresholds for its nationwide mobile phone alert system while agencies increase surveillance of 16 active fault lines, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) said.

Recent earthquakes elsewhere in Asia have not affected Thailand, but agencies are continuing to follow seismic activity and fault movement to maintain readiness, according to DDPM director-general Theerapat Kachamat.

Alert rules for mobile phones

Under the new protocol, the Cell Broadcast system will send alerts for onshore earthquakes in Thailand measuring magnitude 4 or above.

For quakes elsewhere in South-East Asia, the threshold is magnitude 6 or above. Earthquakes in the Andaman Sea will prompt alerts at magnitude 7 or above.

The DDPM said tsunami warnings will be issued for earthquakes of magnitude 7.6 or greater when they occur at depths shallower than 100km.

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) will be the first agency to issue earthquake messages to the public. The DDPM will then send follow-up alerts containing safety instructions, Theerapat said after a coordination meeting.

Monitoring faults across Thailand

The TMD operates 111 seismic stations, 55 ground-acceleration stations and 19 tectonic plate movement monitoring stations nationwide, according to the DDPM statement.

The Department of Mineral Resources also carries out regular surveys of the 16 faults. They extend through northern provinces including Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, western Kanchanaburi, and southern tourism areas including Phang Nga and Phuket.

Officials stressed that all 16 faults are active and capable of producing earthquakes. However, most earthquakes along Thai fault lines are small and do not affect infrastructure.

What this means for foreigners

For foreign residents, tourists and long-stay visitors, the new thresholds provide a clearer indication of when official mobile alerts may be issued, particularly in northern, western and Andaman coast areas.

Anyone staying in fault-zone provinces should follow instructions issued by the TMD and DDPM, and should check evacuation arrangements with hotels, condominiums or workplaces where relevant. Theerapat called for continued public education in fault-zone communities and neighbouring provinces so that people remain informed without panicking.

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026

Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thailand, Myanmar military chiefs meet in Bangkok

Myanmar military chief Ye Win Oo met Thailand's top general Ukris Boontanondha in Bangkok on Thursday 20 August 2026, in his first overseas trip since taking the role.

The talks came as Myanmar's post-coup authorities seek to end five years of diplomatic isolation, while Thailand pursues practical cooperation over security along their 2,400-kilometre border.

Ye Win Oo, a former spymaster for Myanmar's ruling junta, was greeted by Ukris at a Bangkok hotel. The two generals posed with their delegations before talks began.

Border security and scam networks

Thailand's military said the meeting covered stronger security cooperation on the border, where Myanmar's civil war has brought instability since the military overthrew the elected government in a 2021 coup.

The generals discussed joint action against illicit drug trafficking and cyberscam networks, alongside counterterrorism cooperation, military training, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

The talks also addressed cross-border haze, forest fires and river contamination. Ukris presented Ye Win Oo with air-quality monitoring devices, according to the Thai military statement.

Previous high-level military talks were held in Myanmar in 2023, two years after the coup, when Min Aung Hlaing was still Myanmar's armed forces chief.

Thailand resets relations after disputed polls

Myanmar's military detained elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi during the 2021 takeover, triggering a civil war in which the armed forces have been accused of widespread rights abuses. The conflict is estimated to have killed 100,000 people.

Following deeply restricted elections held around the start of 2026, Min Aung Hlaing became civilian president and handed military command to his loyalist Ye Win Oo.

Democracy watchdogs have described the vote as a charade intended to rebrand military rule, citing Suu Kyi's exclusion, the sidelining of her party and prison sentences for dissenters.

Thailand is among neighbouring countries using the polls as an opportunity to reset relations, citing unavoidable shared border issues. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul gave Min Aung Hlaing a red-carpet welcome in Bangkok this month.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow defended that visit, telling reporters: "It's not about legitimacy, it's about reality."

Criticism over engagement

The Special Advisory Council for Myanmar said this week that Thailand had "torched its credibility" by "embracing a warlord". Allowing Ye Win Oo's visit was "adding to its ignominy", it said.

Ye Win Oo has been sanctioned by countries including the United States for his role in the coup.

Last week, the UN's Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar said the military under his command was escalating aerial attacks on civilian targets. Its annual report also documented arbitrary detention, torture and sexual violence by the military.

Myanmar's government rejected the report as "one-sided allegations against Myanmar's security forces based on unverifiable and inaccurate information".


Picture courtesy of AFP

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

ThaiBev denies KFC Thailand sale as bank values unit

ThaiBev has denied starting a formal sale process for its KFC franchise business in Thailand, after reports in July that Bank of America had been asked to explore a possible disposal.

Panote Sirivadhanabhakdi, a ThaiBev director, Group Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Frasers Property Limited, said the bank had instead been engaged for a targeted study of the portfolio's present value.

"There may have been considerable speculation, but what we actually want to understand is the value we have created for KFC," Panote said.

Portfolio has more than doubled since 2017

ThaiBev subsidiary The QSR of Asia Company Limited, or QSA, paid 11.4 billion baht for 240 KFC outlets in 2017. By March 31, 2026, its estate had expanded to 561 restaurants.

Panote described the work as normal investment discipline after nine years of growth, saying the company needed to reassess returns and be able to answer shareholders' questions. While he said any asset could in principle be sold at the right price, the current aim was to establish the value created since acquisition.

Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi, ThaiBev Group Chief Executive Officer, and other members of the new management generation took part in the discussions and decision-making, Panote added.

He said the bank study also showed financial institutions' confidence in Thailand's food-service sector, where revenue-generating platforms with transparent, auditable systems can still attract investment.

KFC network now covers every province

QSA is one of three KFC franchise operators in Thailand. Central Restaurants Group, part of Central Group, introduced KFC to the country at CentralPlaza Ladprao and had 350 outlets as of June 30, 2026.

Restaurants Development Company operates mainly in southern Thailand and recorded continuing losses between 2018 and 2025. QSA, meanwhile, has reported growth in both revenue and profit over more than nine years of operations.

KFC Thailand said in March it had reached all 77 provinces, operating 1,226 outlets after 41 years in the country. Mae Hong Son was the final province added, following a one- to two-year feasibility study by QSA that required changes to logistics, shipment sizes and food-preservation methods for the route with 1,864 bends.

Industry estimates put Thailand's fried-chicken restaurant market at about 30 billion baht, with KFC the leading player.

KFC supports ThaiBev's food division

For the nine months to June 30, ThaiBev reported sales revenue of 254.040 billion baht, down 1.8% year-on-year, while EBITDA rose 7.2% to 48.288 billion baht.

Food-business revenue rose 3% to 17.059 billion baht, helped principally by KFC despite cautious consumer spending and economic uncertainty. Food EBITDA increased 6.7% to 1.683 billion baht, mainly due to a higher share of profit from associated companies.

QSA's 2025 revenue exceeded 11.2 billion baht, up 5.26%, while net profit rose 9.66% to more than 441 million baht. KFC provides more than half of ThaiBev's food revenue, despite the group operating around 30 restaurant brands.

The valuation comes as QSA considers franchise expansion or renewal, with potentially higher fees payable to the franchisor also under consideration.


Picture courtesy of The Nation
Related story

KFC-thailand-operator-with-500-plus-stores-may-be-sold

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

HRW urges Thailand to halt 26 Karen deportations

Human Rights Watch has called on Thailand to stop the possible deportation of 26 ethnic Karen villagers arrested in Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi province.

The group says returning them to Myanmar could expose them to grave danger, citing widespread abuses by Myanmar's military since the February 2021 coup.

The villagers were transferred to Bangkok's Suan Phlu Immigration Detention Center after officials raided the Karen community at Ban Pa Deng village on 10 August. They now face immigration charges and possible removal to Myanmar.

Raid led to 28 arrests

District and forestry officials, accompanied by Thai military personnel, targeted residents who could not show proof of Thai citizenship during the operation in Kaeng Krachan National Park.

Authorities arrested 28 villagers, among them eight children and two pregnant women. Two people were released after officials checked and verified their residence registration records, leaving 26 in detention.

Concern over return to Myanmar

"Deporting ethnic Karen villagers to Myanmar would put them at risk of grave danger," said Elaine Pearson, Human Rights Watch's Asia director.

Human Rights Watch said Myanmar's military has carried out mass killings, torture, arbitrary arrests and unlawful attacks since seizing power in 2021. More than 2 million people have been internally displaced, while more than 100,000 refugees have fled to neighbouring countries, it said.

Community leaders told the organisation that authorities have recently labelled undocumented Karen living in Kaeng Krachan National Park as "illegal immigrants", leaving them open to arrest and removal.

Ban Pa Deng residents also said at least 10 villagers deported to Myanmar about two months ago remain unaccounted for.

Human Rights Watch said sending the 26 detainees back could breach Thailand's obligations under the UN Convention Against Torture and the international non-refoulement principle, which bars the return of people to places where they face a genuine risk of persecution, torture or other serious harm.

The rights group also cited Thailand's Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act, which prohibits deportation where there is a substantial risk of torture or ill-treatment.

Long-standing Karen communities

Karen communities have lived for generations in areas now within Thailand and Myanmar, including Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan, before Kaeng Krachan National Park was created.

The Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex joined the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2021. Authorities have since prohibited settlement inside the park, including by Karen communities, despite concerns raised by UN human rights experts, Thailand's National Human Rights Commission and Indigenous groups over ancestral land rights.

"Ahead of the UN Human Rights Council's review of Thailand's human rights record in November, the Thai government should immediately end its abusive treatment of ethnic Karen in the Kaeng Krachan National Park," Pearson said.

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026

Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Khon Kaen school shifts online after student threat

Kalayanawat School in Khon Kaen moved all teaching online for Friday, 21 August, after an alleged threat of violence by a student raised safety concerns.

The school said students were to join their normal lessons from home through its designated online channels. Teachers and other education staff were still required to report to the school as usual.

The one-day measure was announced on the school's Facebook page on 21 August. Kalayanawat said it had received information which required careful checking and assessment, and that the temporary move was intended to strengthen safety and reassure pupils, parents, teachers and staff.

Police contacted over reported online argument

An unnamed source cited by Khaosod said students had argued in a Line group chat on 20 August over an unspecified matter. One student allegedly made comments threatening violence before leaving the group.

The school is about 300 metres from Khon Kaen City Police Station and reportedly contacted police while the matter is investigated.

Kalayanawat said it had coordinated with relevant agencies to examine the information, assess the circumstances and put suitable safety measures in place.

It also urged parents to supervise children closely during online lessons. Students, parents, teachers and staff were told to rely solely on the school's official communication channels, with a warning not to circulate unverified claims that could create confusion or unnecessary alarm.

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Two motorcyclists killed in separate highway 331 crashes

Two motorcyclists were killed in separate collisions involving 18-wheel lorries on Route 331 in Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, on the night of 20 August 2026.

The crashes happened about three kilometres apart on the Sattahip-Khao Hin Son road, a route used by residents, workers and travellers heading between the Pattaya area, Bo Win and the eastern seaboard.

Caddie dies after hitting stopped lorry

At 11.06pm, the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya rescue radio centre was alerted to a motorcycle collision shortly before the Khao Mai Kaew ring-road interchange bridge in Khao Mai Kaew, Bang Lamung.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Prakasit Phaladej, an investigating officer at Huai Yai Police Station, attended with Sawang Boriboon rescue volunteers.

They found a Mitsubishi 18-wheel trailer, with tractor registration from Maha Sarakham and trailer registration from Suphan Buri, stopped at the roadside following a tyre blowout.

A white Honda Wave 125 motorcycle with red-plate registration, was wedged into the rear of the trailer. The rider, 34-year-old caddie Miss Ratchanee, from Udon Thani, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The lorry driver, 39-year-old Mr Korakot, told officers that his trailer had suffered a blown tyre. He said another vehicle ahead had also broken down and would not start, and people had been working on repairs at the front of his vehicle.



According to the driver, cones had been placed and warning lights activated at the rear of the trailer. He said he heard a loud impact, found the woman seriously injured and called for help, but she later died at the scene from her injuries.

Second collision near Wat Pong Saket

Around the same time, rescuers were called to another fatal crash on Route 331, near Wat Pong Saket in Takhian Tia, Bang Lamung, on the Bo Win-bound side.

An Isuzu 18-wheel trailer, registration from Chon Buri, was parked at the roadside. A Honda Lead motorcycle, registration from Phichit, was lying damaged in the middle of the road.

The male rider, believed to have been aged between 30 and 35, was critically injured. Rescuers performed CPR, but he later died.

The truck driver told police he had been making a U-turn and did not see the motorcycle approaching. The collision struck the side of the lorry, sending both the bike and rider into the road, he said.

Police examine CCTV footage

Police in both cases photographed the scenes and are checking CCTV footage to establish the precise causes. The bodies were taken to hospital pending collection by relatives for religious rites.

Residents told reporters that accidents regularly occur at both locations because the road is poorly lit. They called on relevant agencies to improve lighting along the route.


Pictures courtesy of SiamChon

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Koh Tao arrests: Six foreign dive instructors held

Six foreign nationals, one Briton and five Spaniards, have been arrested on Koh Tao for allegedly working as diving instructors without work permits.

Surat Thani Immigration Police said the six were using Destination Thailand Visas (DTVs), intended for remote work, but had been teaching diving at businesses on the island without authorisation.

The arrests followed inspections at four targeted premises on Koh Tao by immigration officers, Koh Tao police, Tourist Police, local administrative officials, Department of Business Development staff and public health officials from Koh Phangan district.

Police Colonel Naruwat Phutthawiro, chief of Surat Thani Immigration, said on 20 August that the operation was launched after reports on social media of foreigners and migrant workers allegedly working illegally, particularly in the diving sector.

Dive businesses face further scrutiny

Officials said diving operators need suitably experienced and qualified instructors, particularly on Koh Tao, a globally known diving destination. They said unauthorised work could affect tourist safety and the island's tourism image.



Company directors were also accused of employing foreign workers without work permits. Authorities said they would investigate further to establish whether nominee shareholding arrangements were involved, with legal action to follow if violations are found.

For foreigners living or working in Thailand, the case is a reminder that a visa allowing a stay in the country does not automatically permit local employment. The DTV is designed for remote workers and others who meet its conditions; undertaking work for a Thai business, including teaching or providing services on the ground, generally requires the appropriate work authorisation.

Pharmacy and salon workers also detained

During the same operation, officers inspected a pharmacy where a Myanmar national, identified as Sa Chi Lin, was found selling medicines and taking payments from customers. No pharmacist was present at the shop during the inspection.

She was arrested on an allegation of working beyond the scope of her permitted employment.

At a beauty salon in Ban Haad Sairee, authorities found two Myanmar nationals providing nail services to foreign customers. Their documents allowed them to work in other job categories, officers said, while beauty work is not permitted for foreign workers.

Both were arrested on allegations of working beyond their authorised permissions.

In total, nine people were detained over alleged foreign-worker employment offences and handed to investigators at Koh Tao Police Station for legal proceedings.

Surat Thani Immigration said enforcement would continue. Between 1 January and 19 August 2026, it recorded 47 arrests of foreign nationals on Koh Tao for alleged offences under foreign employment, immigration and narcotics laws, as well as other criminal offences.


Pictures courtesy of Daily News

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Court fines Israeli man over Koh Samui zoo threat

The Koh Samui Provincial Court has fined an Israeli man 5,000 baht for threatening the life of the owner of Samui Exotic Park, a zoo on the island in Surat Thani.

Koh Samui police said on Thursday 20 August 2026, that the man, identified only as Mr Jacob, was arrested after Jindarat Sattayapun filed a complaint over a Facebook post threatening her life.

Police had set up a safety checkpoint outside Samui Exotic Park from August 15 after learning of the alleged threat. They said they are still seeking another person accused of placing a 500,000-baht bounty on the zoo owner.

Dispute followed refusal of entry

The row began after an Israeli couple travelling with two children said they were refused entry to the park on August 12.

Ms Jindarat, described by police as the Thai woman operating the zoo, said she had decided not to admit Israelis after several visitors allegedly refused to pay entrance fees, took animal feed from other guests' baskets, ignored park rules and squirted milk into pigs' faces.

Deputy Interior Minister Polapee Suwunchwee said he had received reports of disputes between the zoo owner and Israeli expatriates living on Koh Samui. Separate reports said an Israeli national had ordered Ms Jindarat to close the zoo and leave the island.

Separate development referring to flags and online exchanges

In a separate development, Koh Samui district chief Amorn Chumchuay said officials, police, immigration officers and other agencies were investigating online claims involving the French co-owner of Samui Exotic Park and his Thai wife.

That account said the online dispute was linked to flags displayed at the entrance to the park in Moo 1, Mae Nam. Officials said a Palestinian flag bearing the words "Free Palestine" was displayed, along with an Israeli flag carrying a symbol saying Israelis were not welcome and a paper shooting target.

Authorities said these displays had offended Israeli people. Immigration officials reportedly found that an Israeli accused of making a death threat online, was in France, rather than on Koh Samui, and had exchanged criticism and challenges with the French zoo owner.

Amorn said authorities would establish the facts before deciding whether any law had been broken, and that safety and legal protection would apply equally to all nationalities on Koh Samui.

Related stories

Israeli-family-says-Koh-Samui-park-refused-entry

Interior-ministry-steps-into-Samui-zoo-entry-dispute

Fire-probe-in-France-at-Samui-park-manager-mothers-home

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Foreign woman eventually admits Koh Pha Ngan shop theft

A foreign woman admitted taking items from a shop on Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani, after the owner shared CCTV footage showing her placing goods in a tote bag. The incident took place on August 18, and the shop owner later met the woman at a police station.

Initially, the woman denied stealing anything. She told the owner that she had paid for all the products placed in her bag and said the footage made her look like a thief.

CCTV reviewed after goods went missing

The shop owner posted the footage online while asking the public to help identify the woman. According to the owner, the woman had entered the shop and asked to charge her phone.

When the owner's mother refused, the woman reportedly went behind the cashier counter and plugged in her charger herself.


Picture courtesy of Facebook Satika Oz

She then spent around an hour in the shop, browsing and asking questions about products. The owner said her mother had tried to help throughout the visit by using a translation app.

After the woman left, the owner found that several items were missing. On reviewing the CCTV recording, she said she saw the customer putting multiple products into her tote bag.

Woman says tote bag was used as a basket

The woman later contacted the shop owner to challenge the accusation. In a message shared by the owner, she said she was shocked by the video and maintained that she had been permitted to use her tote bag as a shopping basket because she was buying many items.

She insisted that she had paid for everything in the bag before leaving the store.

The woman also said the shop owner had spoken to her by phone and she asked for the videos to be removed. The owner replied by telling her to stop "lying and making excuses" and return to the shop.

Police meeting follows online appeal

The owner later said she met the foreign woman at a police station, where the woman admitted the offence. However, the owner did not say whether legal proceedings remain under way or whether the matter ended after payment was made.

AQMNqWgP8uiQ6OoN1Ro6VT_OBN5fZglGorEuHvMqXNpnzGz-ktDDHLWOGqpXm1dvrx3KkWkLZtxIRBcqQ_ggh1JA-ZQsjvsgr_zi4xTtDA.mp4

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Living wills in Thailand: rights for residents

Thailand's National Health Act allows Thai nationals and residents to set out in advance which life-prolonging treatments they do not want at the final stage of terminal illness.

Known formally as a Declaration of Intent and commonly as a Living Will, the document is protected under Section 12 of the National Health Act B.E. 2550 (2007). Medical staff who follow a valid declaration are legally protected from liability.

For foreigners living legally in Thailand, this offers a way to record end-of-life wishes before a medical crisis leaves family members, partners or doctors having to make difficult decisions without clear instructions.

What a Living Will does - and does not do

A Living Will is not euthanasia, which remains illegal in Thailand. It does not authorise anyone to actively hasten death; instead, it permits a person to refuse procedures which artificially extend dying when there is no prospect of recovery.

Palliative and comfort care must continue. This can include pain medication and oxygen, while the treatments declined may include CPR, intubation, tracheotomy, dialysis, feeding tubes, antibiotics or intravenous fluids that offer no clinical benefit.

The declaration takes effect only in two circumstances set out in ministerial regulations: an incurable illness or injury diagnosed by the attending doctor, under medical standards, as inevitably leading to death within a short period; or permanent loss of cerebral cortex function, leaving a person unable to perceive or communicate beyond automatic responses.

It does not apply to emergencies where there is a realistic chance of survival. Someone injured in a car crash, for example, would still receive full resuscitation.

Who can make one and what it needs

Anyone aged 18 or over and of sound mind may make a Living Will, whether or not they are ill. Those with chronic conditions are advised to discuss likely progression and treatment options with their treating physician first.

The document must include the person’s full name, age, national identification number and contact details; the date; and the full name, national identification number and relationship of at least one witness.

It must clearly state which treatments or healthcare services are refused. If another person writes or types it, their name and national identification number must be included. The person, witness and any writer must sign or provide fingerprints.

A person may also appoint someone to clarify their intentions, provided that person signs and supplies identification details. End-of-life preferences - including where they wish to die, emotional or psychological support, and religious or cultural practices - can also be added. Medical facilities must reasonably cooperate with those preferences.

Keep it available and discuss it

The document can be changed at any time, with the latest version taking precedence. People should tell relatives, spouses, siblings and treating doctors where it is kept, and ensure it is presented promptly when they are admitted to hospital.

Dr Thakoon Kanjanopart, an internal medicine physician specialising in palliative care, stated that two or three ICU beds can typically be occupied by patients certain to die while patients with a chance of survival cannot access them.

He said the document is only one part of Advance Care Planning: continuing conversations with loved ones and medical teams. Those discussions can spare families conflict, uncertainty and guilt when a patient can no longer speak.


Example of the form courtesy of The Thaiger

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Laos arrests two over Chiang Rai gold shop robbery

Two Lao men have been arrested in Bokeo province over the armed robbery of a gold shop in Chiang Rai earlier this month, with Thai and Lao authorities preparing to extradite them to Thailand.

The pair are accused of taking 184 baht weight of gold ornaments from a shopping-mall gold shop on August 4 before escaping across the Mekong River to Laos. Thai police had obtained arrest warrants from Thoeng Provincial Court.

Lao police identified the suspects as Somchai, 32, from Houayxay district, and Ai, 31, a boat skipper based in Houayxay town. A handgun was seized, while Ai has been charged as an accomplice, according to the report.

Extradition preparations under way

Authorities in Laos are examining the recovered weapon and searching for the stolen gold before coordinating the men's extradition to Thailand.


Picture courtesy of TNR

Chiang Khong police station said it had gathered evidence identifying the alleged offenders and secured warrants from Thoeng Provincial Court. Officers then worked with the Bokeo Provincial Police Command, with the cross-border cooperation said to have led to mounting pressure and the arrests.

Robbery and escape took 10 minutes

The robbery took place in daylight at a gold shop inside a shopping mall. Police said both suspects were armed with 9mm handguns, with one wearing a face mask and the other leaving his face uncovered.

They arrived by motorcycle, parked it and entered the shop, where they scooped up the gold ornaments and placed them in a shoulder bag before fleeing.

The suspects then travelled to a Mekong River boat dock only 200 metres from the shopping mall and quickly crossed to the Lao side. From the start of the robbery to their escape, the operation took around 10 minutes.

The recovery of the stolen gold remains under way. The two men are expected to face charges in Thailand once Lao authorities complete the necessary coordination for their handover.


Related story

Chiang-Rai-gold-shop-robbed-after-warning-shot

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026


Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thailand, Taiwan target Cambodia scam network

Thai and Taiwanese police have launched a joint operation against a Taiwanese criminal network accused of running call-centre scams from Cambodia and tricking people into joining the operation.

The Anti-Online Scam Centre (ACSC), Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and Taiwan's Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB Taiwan) announced on 20 August that more than 20 suspects had been arrested. They include alleged financiers, operational leaders and the owner of a Taiwanese tour company.

The operation was directed by Police General Thana Chuwong, deputy national police chief and director of the police anti-online scam centre; Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridej, assistant national police chief and deputy director; and Police Lieutenant General Natsasak Chaowanasai, CIB commissioner.



Victims recruited with promises of high pay

CIB Taiwan said its investigation found that the network had operated call centres in Cambodia, with members allegedly impersonating police officers in telephone scams.

Investigators initially identified 46 victims, with reported losses exceeding NT$200 million.

Police said the group also recruited people online by advertising jobs responding to social-media chat messages for a company said to have offices in Cambodia. The adverts offered high pay, free accommodation and food, and reportedly persuaded more than 100 people to join.

The recruits were allegedly being sent from Taiwan to Cambodia to prepare for the opening of call-centre operations.

Thai travel arrangements under scrutiny

According to police, the network worked with a Thai tour company to make the journeys appear legitimate during official checks. Officers said the arrangements included travel documents, fake return air tickets and false accommodation bookings.

Thai credit cards were also allegedly used to pay for air fares in an effort to evade checks by Taiwanese police.

Authorities said 20 suspects were identified as part of the expanded investigation. They include alleged ringleaders, investors, operational figures and the Taiwanese tour company owner who was said to have arranged travel for call-centre members.

Police seized cash, digital assets, bank accounts, ATM cards, electronic devices and vehicles. The suspects face allegations of public fraud and money laundering.


Pictures courtesy of Daily News

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Bangkok eighth in global attractive city index

Bangkok has been ranked eighth worldwide in the 2026 Global Tourism City Attractiveness Index, placing the Thai capital ahead of Okinawa and Chicago but immediately behind Rome.

The study, published by Yanolja Research, assessed 261 cities and issued rankings for the top 200. Chiang Mai, Thailand's second-largest tourist destination, came 27th overall.

The index is based on online traveller discussion and sentiment, not visitor arrival numbers, hotel prices or official safety assessments.

How the rankings were compiled

Yanolja Research developed the index with Purdue University's CHRIBA Institute in the United States and Kyung Hee University's H&T Analytics Centre in Seoul.

Researchers examined global social media conversations in 14 languages, using Brandwatch data to assess both the volume of traveller comments and the sentiment behind them.

New York was ranked first overall, with researchers attributing its position to global visibility and consistently positive visitor sentiment. Paris took second place, followed by Osaka, Kyoto and Seoul.

London was sixth and Rome seventh, before Bangkok in eighth. Okinawa came ninth and Chicago tenth.

The index also uses separate scores for overall performance, awareness and attractiveness. New York led the overall and awareness categories, although it ranked third for attractiveness, behind two Asian cities.

Asia's growing appeal in traveller sentiment

Dr SooCheong (Shawn) Jang, a Purdue University professor and director of Yanolja Research, said the findings suggested the strongest tourism cities were no longer simply those with the highest visitor numbers or biggest promotional budgets.

He said successful cities were those able to turn worldwide recognition into visitor experiences that carried emotional meaning.

Jang said New York demonstrated the strength of combining exceptional global recognition with experiential appeal. He added that the strong showing by Osaka, Kyoto, Seoul and Okinawa indicated that emotional attractiveness was becoming increasingly important in tourism competition.

Researchers found that about 60% of leading destinations in the attractiveness category were in Asia, reflecting a broader shift in traveller sentiment towards the region.

Japan had eight cities in the broader top 50 for attractiveness: Osaka, Kyoto, Okinawa, Tokyo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Yokohama and Sapporo.

The United States had the widest representation in the upper levels of the index, with 16 cities in the global top 50 and 19 in the top 100. Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami and Washington DC joined New York in the top 20.


Picture courtesy of Khoasod

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

17 hurt in giant bee swarm at Bang Lamung offices

Seventeen people, including 13 schoolchildren, were injured after a swarm of giant honeybees attacked people at the Bang Lamung civic centre in Na Kluea, Chon Buri, on 20 August 2026.

A 71-year-old food vendor, Aranong Wentry, was seriously injured after being stung by what witnesses said were hundreds of bees. The attack happened beside Bang Lamung District Office, near a food and drink sales area beneath a large rain tree.

The civic complex includes Bang Lamung Police Station, the district office and Bang Lamung School.

Vendor and police officer attacked

Sawang Boriboon Rescue Foundation's Pattaya radio centre sent five ambulances after receiving reports that residents and pupils had been stung. Rescuers initially found 10 injured people waiting for assistance, some with severe allergic reactions and large swollen welts.

They were given first aid before being taken to Pattaya Bhattamakun Hospital.



The final total was 17 injured: four adults - two food vendors, one police officer and one local resident - plus 13 Bang Lamung School pupils.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Ratchaphon Seneewong Na Ayutthaya, a deputy investigation inspector at Bang Lamung Police Station, was among those hurt. He had tried to help Aranong after she collapsed under the bee attack.

Jirapha Patcharawisakorn, 58, another food seller at the site, said Aranong, known locally as Pa Uan, had started a fire to grill chicken when bees from the top of the tree began hovering around her.

At first there were only a small number of bees, she said. Less than two minutes later, hundreds reportedly descended and stung Aranong until she fell to the ground.

Ratchaphon ran in to pull her clear but was also swarmed and fell. He later grabbed a fire extinguisher and sprayed Aranong to drive the bees away, Jirapha said.

Pupils caught while leaving school

The bees also attacked people walking through the area, including pupils who had been allowed to leave school after a power cut meant lessons were suspended that day.

Officials found a large hive, measuring about one metre by one metre, high in the rain tree. Pattaya City's land disaster relief unit used a hydraulic platform for access, to burn the hive immediately in an effort to prevent another attack.

Local residents said a similar bee incident had happened there once before, but it was not as serious as this one.


Pictures courtesy of SiamRath

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Phuket probes Israeli restaurant over refused Thai service claims

Phuket provincial authorities are investigating an Israeli-owned restaurant in Patong following complaints that Thai customers were refused service and denied entry.

Pol. Capt. Khetarat Chansilp, Phuket's Deputy Governor and Acting Security Advisor to the Ministry of Interior, led an inspection of the venue and other local businesses, after the reports emerged on Wednesday, 19 August 2026.

Ownership and management under review

The inspections forms part of a wider government effort to regulate foreign-owned businesses and check that they comply with Thai law.

Officials are reviewing the restaurant's ownership arrangements, management practices and supporting documents. They will assess whether it is operating legally, including whether Thai nationals may have been used as nominees to conceal foreign control.

Nominee business arrangements are prohibited under Thai law, according to the authorities, who said such structures can undermine fair competition.

No outcome of the investigation has yet been announced. Phuket officials said legal action would follow if breaches are confirmed.

Equal treatment warning

Khetarat said businesses must serve customers equally regardless of nationality. He warned against venues operating exclusively for foreign clients.

He also instructed officers to keep watch on establishments advertising mainly in Hebrew or appearing to target international visitors only.

Authorities said the wider objective is to protect consumer rights and public confidence in Phuket's tourism industry. They also said enforcement was intended to maintain Thailand's image as a welcoming destination for both Thai people and overseas visitors.


Picture courtesy of Phuket Express

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thailand considers penalty-free illegal gun surrender

Thailand's Interior Ministry is discussing a scheme that would let people hand in illegal firearms without criminal penalties, as part of a wider rewrite of the country's gun-control laws.

Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt said the proposed firearms bill is expected to go to Cabinet around mid-September 2026, following an initial public consultation through the Central Legal System, or Law Portal, which closes on Thursday, September 10.

The proposed surrender arrangement is intended to bring unregistered guns currently outside official control back into the state system. Discussions have been held between the Interior Ministry and the Council of State.

A gun buyback scheme is also being considered. However, the ministry's preliminary view is that a straightforward surrender programme would be more suitable because buying weapons back would require substantial funding and could create a financial burden for the government.

A full review of gun controls

Pakorn said the new bill is intended to close gaps in the Firearms Act, which has been in force since 1947, and establish a more integrated national system for firearms control.

The consultation responses received through the Law Portal will be used to prepare the draft legislation. It will then be opened to another round of public consultation before being submitted to Cabinet.

One central proposal concerns gun registration and possession licences. At present, different agencies operate separate licensing systems, with no linked data and limited mechanisms for tracking and monitoring firearms.

The bill would also examine legal firearms that have not been registered by their holders, which results in those weapons becoming illegal. The review is expected to cover registration, licensing, possession and use, along with tighter supervision of firearms dealers.

Pakorn said existing legislation does not clearly require firearms retailers to share responsibility for safety and security.

Shooting ranges and border controls

Shooting ranges are another area under review. Pakorn said there is currently no clearly defined control and oversight system, and that clearer standards and operating measures are needed.

He added that legal changes alone would not solve firearms problems. They must be accompanied by strict border monitoring and efforts to intercept firearms and ammunition being smuggled into Thailand.

Join the discussion?


21 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Bangkok mother alleges SUV rammed motorbike with baby

A Bangkok mother has accused an SUV driver of deliberately crashing into the motorcycle carrying her, her husband and their seven-month-old son in Soi Phetkasem 69.

The 25-year-old woman filed a complaint at Phetkasem Police Station on August 18 over the collision, which happened at about 5pm on Friday, August 14. She submitted rear-camera footage from another vehicle as evidence.

The woman said she had been riding pillion behind her husband, holding their infant son, as the family headed to a nearby market.

Dispute followed lane change

According to her account, an SUV was parked in the left lane, where the motorcycle was travelling. Her husband gradually moved into another lane to pass it, but she said the SUV then moved across as well, nearly running over her husband's foot.

She acknowledged that her husband shouted an offensive remark at the driver. The SUV then followed their motorcycle closely before accelerating into its rear, she alleged.



The woman said the car's male and female occupants got out and apologised, initially saying the collision was accidental. The driver reportedly told the family he had intended to brake but mistakenly pressed the accelerator.

She did not immediately make a police report. However, she said she reconsidered after footage from a vehicle ahead was shared online, leading her to believe the crash had been deliberate.

Driver denies deliberate collision

The 31-year-old driver later stated, that he had not intended to hit the motorcycle. He said he apologised at the scene and contacted his insurance company to help resolve the matter.

He said he had indicated before changing lanes after a vehicle on his right slowed and left a gap. However, he admitted he had been careless and had not checked his right-hand mirror closely enough to see the motorcycle entering the lane at the same time.


Picture courtesy of X/@R4RacingChannel

The driver said the motorcyclist's shouted remark caused him to lose his temper. He maintained that he followed the motorcycle only because he wanted to stop and discuss the earlier incident, not to attack the family.

He added that the motorcycle braked suddenly, causing the collision seen in the footage. He said he checked whether anyone was injured, helped move the motorcycle off the road, and agreed at the scene to pay for the damage.

The mother said her son cried in fear during the incident and had seemed subdued in the following days.

The driver said he was prepared to give a statement to police and accept responsibility for the incident.

ScreenRecording_08-20-2026 05-37-35_1.mp4

Join the discussion?


20 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Ezy Airlines delays three Chiang Mai northern routes

Ezy Airlines has indefinitely postponed the launch of three planned northern Thailand services while it awaits approval from Chiang Mai International Airport.

The affected routes are Chiang Mai-Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai-Pai and Chiang Mai-Nan. The airline had planned to open bookings on August 17, but said the airport had not yet approved its request to provide its own ground handling, known as self-handling.

A message shared by a passenger who contacted Ezy Airlines to book a ticket said the delay applied both to ticket sales and the start of flights on all three routes.

Airport approval still pending

Ezy Airlines said self-handling approval would allow it to cut operating costs, helping to limit the effect of those costs on passenger fares.

The carrier said it remained committed to launching the three services, citing demand for domestic travel, tourism support and stronger economic connections between provinces in northern Thailand.

It said it would announce any timetable changes and further updates when they become available. No revised date for bookings or the first flights has been given.

Small-aircraft carrier has wider plans

Ezy Airlines is a short-haul airline operating small aircraft, including the Cessna Grand Caravan EX. It focuses on linking major provinces with smaller destinations through scheduled and charter services.

Its principal scheduled route is currently Hat Yai-Betong, whose inaugural flight took place in June. According to a report by the NBT news agency, fares start at 3,100 baht, excluding VAT.

The airline has also outlined plans for several southern Thailand routes, although it has not yet released further details on those proposals.

The postponed northern links would have added an air option between Chiang Mai and destinations often reached by road. The delay does not change existing travel arrangements, but it means visitors and residents will need to wait for Ezy Airlines to receive the required airport clearance before the new flights can begin.


Picture courtesy of Facebook/Ezy Airlines

Join the discussion?


20 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Pokemon card scam complaint after 11 year old loses B1m

An 11-year-old boy who says he and his family lost more than 1 million baht buying a rare Pokemon card is among at least 25 people who have complained to police over an alleged collectibles scam in Thailand.

The group, accompanied by consumer advocate Tankhun Jitt-itsara, filed its complaint with the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) on Wednesday. They want action against a man identified only as "Mr Mor", who allegedly offered to obtain sought-after cards and other collectibles from overseas.

Complainants told police their combined losses exceed 5 million baht.

Trust built through early deliveries

According to the victims, Mr Mor became trusted in Thailand's trading-card community by offering access to rare Pokemon cards and other valuable items from abroad.

They said he initially supplied genuine products, allowing him to build a reputation before customers placed bigger orders. He allegedly later failed to deliver, blaming customs, tax and import issues, before ending contact and closing his Facebook trading page.

A 15-year-old trader said successful early deals led collectors to recommend the seller within the community. The difficulties only began after buyers made larger purchases.

A 22-year-old collector said he lost more than 120,000 baht after buying two high-value cards, priced at about 60,000 baht each. He said previous transactions had made a profit, leaving him with no reason to suspect the seller.

A growing market draws young buyers

Many of the complainants are young collectors who trade cards as a hobby or as a source of income. Thailand's expanding market has seen rare and limited-edition cards sell for hundreds of thousands, or even millions, of baht, drawing collectors and investors alike.

High-value trading cards, including Pokemon, One Piece, sports cards and trading card games, were displayed at Extreme Card Fest Thailand at Chamchuri Square in Bangkok in June.

Tankhun, president of the Santiprachadham Club, said the growing card business had attracted many young participants and called for stronger anti-fraud protections. He urged authorities to find the suspect and establish whether there are further victims.


Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

Join the discussion?


20 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

MaxValu Thailand to close on 30 September

MaxValu, the Japanese supermarket chain in Thailand, is to serve customers for the final time on 30 September 2026, with its 30 branches set to be converted to the Tops brand.

The closure follows Central Retail Corporation's plan to acquire Aeon (Thailand), the operator of MaxValu supermarkets.

Central Retail plans 30-store conversion

Central Retail Corporation Plc (CRC) informed the Stock Exchange of Thailand on 7 August that its wholly owned subsidiary, Central Food Retail Co Ltd (CFR), had signed an agreement to buy ordinary shares in Aeon (Thailand) Co Ltd.

Aeon (Thailand) operates 30 MaxValu supermarkets across Bangkok and the surrounding provinces. The sites include smaller branches inside buildings and larger stand-alone stores.

CRC said the acquisition would allow it to convert the branches to Tops outlets, expand its store network in strategic locations, strengthen its food business and add 900,000 customers to its base.

For expats, retirees and visitors living near these locations, the main immediate issue is likely to be shopping convenience. Customers who rely on a particular MaxValu branch should watch for store notices on closing arrangements and the opening dates of replacement Tops branches.

Staff say 30 September is the final day

Sales staff contacted by Matichon said they had been told that MaxValu would remain open until 30 September 2026, its final day of trading.

From 1 October, the MaxValu name will therefore disappear from Thailand's retail market.

However, staff have not yet been told clearly whether they will remain employed after the changeover. Central Retail has not detailed the timetable for individual branch conversions.

Large sites could have wider potential

Analysts cited in the report said several of the locations are in high-potential areas. They suggested Central could do more than simply install Tops branding at larger stand-alone branches close to mass-transit lines, given the group's interests in retail, property and hotels.

MaxValu's Lak Si branch was highlighted as one site attracting attention. It occupies a large plot beside the Pink Line and opposite Phranakhon Rajabhat University, with condominium developments nearby.

There has been no confirmation of any broader redevelopment plans for that branch. For now, the confirmed plan is for the 30 MaxValu stores to become part of the Tops network.

Join the discussion?


20 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Account

Navigation

Search

Search

Configure browser push notifications
Chrome (Android)
  1. Tap the lock icon next to the address bar.
  2. Tap Permissions → Notifications.
  3. Adjust your preference.
Chrome (Desktop)
  1. Click the padlock icon in the address bar.
  2. Select Site settings.
  3. Find Notifications and adjust your preference.