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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.

Thailand Monitors New Chinese Tanks in Cambodia

Thailand is monitoring Cambodia’s receipt of 39 Chinese-made T59D tanks, but Defence Minister Lt Gen Adul Boonthamcharoen said on June 10 that there was no indication the tanks had been moved to the Thai-Cambodian border. The comments came amid ongoing tensions between the neighbouring countries, although Thai authorities said the overall situation remains manageable.

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Speaking at Government House, Adul said Chinese officials had sought discussions after delivering the tanks to Cambodia. He explained that China and Cambodia have conducted joint military exercises since 2016 and that the tanks were older models refurbished by China. According to current intelligence, the tanks have arrived at a Cambodian port but have not been deployed near the border.

Adul said Thailand was aware Cambodia had acquired new military equipment for national defence purposes. He added that any impact on Thailand’s border security would depend on where Cambodia chose to deploy the tanks. Thailand and Cambodia currently have a Joint Statement governing the movement of military equipment and personnel in border areas.

The defence minister said the tank delivery formed part of an existing arrangement linked to joint training exercises. While reports suggested China could eventually deliver up to 93 tanks, Adul stressed that Thailand was not being complacent and would continue monitoring developments. He also noted reports that China planned to provide vessels to Cambodia, although they had not yet arrived.



Addressing the broader dispute, Adul accused Cambodia of continuing to attempt to stir nationalist sentiment for domestic purposes. He said Thailand would continue to follow the framework established by the Joint Statement and would not be drawn into actions that Cambodia might seek to provoke.

National Security Council secretary-general Chatchai Bangchuad said the border remained sensitive but manageable. He noted that officials at local and regional levels continued to engage in dialogue despite occasional friction and that the ceasefire agreement remained in force.

Chatchai also confirmed that Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs was reviewing Cambodia’s decision to initiate compulsory conciliation under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) regarding a maritime boundary dispute. Cambodia’s move followed Thailand’s termination of a 25-year-old memorandum of understanding covering overlapping maritime claims.

Both Adul and Chatchai were questioned about remarks attributed to Cambodian Senate President Samdech Hun Sen regarding reclaiming territory from Thailand. Adul said that if force was being considered, Cambodia should “think very carefully”, echoing comments made by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on June 9. Cambodian media later reported that Hun Sen had clarified his preference for resolving issues through the Joint Boundary Commission and peaceful negotiations.

The Nation reported the ceasefire reached in December remains the key framework governing relations between the two countries. Armed clashes last year killed nearly 150 people and displaced at least 300,000 people on both sides of the border. Thai officials said they will continue monitoring military movements and diplomatic developments closely in the coming weeks.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 11 June 2026
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Israeli Fugitive Held in Bangkok for Deportation

Thai immigration police have arrested a 20-year-old Israeli national wanted in his home country on fraud and document forgery charges, as authorities prepare to deport him to face legal proceedings in Israel.

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The arrest took place at around 3.30pm on 10 June 2026 after officers from the Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division tracked down Niki Soko, whose visa had been revoked following a request from Israeli authorities. According to officials, he is the subject of an Israeli arrest warrant for fraud and document forgery offences and has also been the subject of an Interpol Green Notice, identifying him as a person who may pose a threat to public safety and could reoffend.

The operation was carried out under the direction of senior Immigration Bureau commanders, including Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau; Pol Maj Gen Pratchaya Prasansuk, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau; Pol Maj Gen Phanthana Nuchanart, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau; and Pol Maj Gen Phanop Worathanatchakul, Commander of the Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division.

The Israeli Public Security Office had formally requested cooperation from Thai authorities to locate and deport Niki Soko to face prosecution in Israel. Investigators found that Soko had entered Thailand legally and that his permission to remain in the country had not yet expired.



However, following a review, the commander of the Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division approved the revocation of his visa and ordered officers to locate him. Police later learned that Soko had travelled to Koh Phangan in Surat Thani province with his Ukrainian girlfriend before returning to Bangkok.

Officers traced him to a condominium in the Phetkasem area of Phasi Charoen district and later discovered he had visited IT Square to submit an application for an extension of stay in Thailand. Immigration investigators coordinated with officers from Immigration Division 1 and located him inside IT Square. He was informed of the visa revocation, taken into custody and transferred to investigators for processing ahead of deportation proceedings.

The case forms part of the Immigration Bureau’s “Three No’s” policy - “No Entry, No Stay, No Escape” - aimed at preventing foreign nationals involved in criminal activity from using Thailand as a base of operations.

Thaitabloid reported that authorities said they continue to intensify inspections and enforcement against foreign nationals who violate Thai laws or are wanted by authorities overseas. Further deportation procedures are now expected to follow, with Thai authorities preparing to return Soko to Israel for legal action.


Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 11 June 2026
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Erawan Shrine Bombing Verdict Due in Bangkok

More than a decade after the deadly Erawan Shrine bombing in central Bangkok, the South Bangkok Criminal Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on June 11, 2026, at 9am. The case against Bilal Mohammed, also known as Adem Karadag, and Yusufu Mieraili has become one of Thailand’s longest-running criminal trials, extending into its 11th year after numerous legal and procedural delays.

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The bombing occurred at about 6.55pm on August 17, 2015, at the Erawan Shrine near the Ratchaprasong intersection, one of Bangkok’s busiest commercial and tourist districts. The explosion killed 20 people, including Thai nationals and foreign visitors, and injured more than 160 others.

Police alleged that Karadag placed a backpack containing the explosive device at the shrine before leaving the scene. Yusufu was accused of assembling the device, procuring equipment and helping deliver it. Both men were later taken by police for a crime-scene re-enactment before authorities formally announced the case in September 2015.



The lengthy court process was heavily influenced by changes in jurisdiction. Because the bombing took place during the National Council for Peace and Order era, the case was initially heard by the Bangkok Military Court under orders covering weapons and explosives offences.

After civilian cases were removed from military-court jurisdiction, proceedings were transferred to the South Bangkok Criminal Court. The move required witness examinations to begin again within the civilian court system, contributing significantly to the delay.

Court proceedings were further disrupted during the Covid-19 pandemic. Additional setbacks arose from interpreter issues, as the defendants speak Uyghur and required translation between Uyghur, English and Thai. In 2016, the trial stalled when a military court rejected one proposed interpreter and another was unable to communicate effectively with the defendants.


Pictures courtesy of The Nation

The scale of the case also added to its duration. Prosecutors called more than 400 witnesses, while the defence presented more than 45 witnesses. The proceedings also involved extensive documentary and physical evidence running to tens of thousands of pages.

From 2023 to 2026, the South Bangkok Criminal Court accelerated witness examinations, allowing the case to progress to the verdict stage. The upcoming ruling is expected to bring a major chapter in the long-running case to a close.

The Nation reported that authorities also issued arrest warrants for several other alleged members of the network. One Thai woman, Wanna Suansan, accused of renting accommodation for suspects, was acquitted by the South Bangkok Criminal Court in November 2024 after the court found the evidence insufficient. She was one of three people apprehended out of 17 suspects named by authorities.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 11 June 2026
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Constitutional Court Rejects Election Barcode Petition

Thailand’s Constitutional Court has unanimously rejected a petition challenging the Election Commission’s use of barcodes on ballot papers for House of Representatives elections, ruling that the case does not fall within the scope of a constitutional complaint under Section 213 of the Constitution.

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The decision, announced on 10 June 2026, concerns a petition filed by Ratchakhet Rojanamonthian. He asked the court to determine whether the Election Commission’s placement of barcode identifiers on ballot papers caused ballots to become invalid and violated Election Commission regulations governing House of Representatives elections issued in 2023.

The petitioner also argued that the Election Commission’s collection of political opinion data without voters’ consent breached Section 26 of the Personal Data Protection Act 2019. He claimed the actions infringed his rights and freedoms and conflicted with several constitutional provisions, including Sections 25, 26, 27, 32, 34, 50(7), and 224(1)(2).

The case formed part of a long-running dispute over the use of barcode and QR code technology on election ballots. Previous proceedings saw the Constitutional Court request additional information relating to the issue before reaching its latest decision.

The court stated that, based on the petition, supplementary submissions and supporting documents, if the petitioner believed his rights or freedoms had been violated, he could pursue remedies through other judicial channels under Section 25, paragraph three, of the Constitution.

The judges further noted that the Constitution and relevant organic laws already provide specific procedures and authorised parties for submitting such complaints. The court cited Section 47(2) of the Organic Act on Procedures of the Constitutional Court 2018 and noted that Section 46, paragraph three, requires the court to reject petitions that do not meet the prescribed criteria.

As a result, the court ruled that Ratchakhet was not entitled to submit the complaint under Section 213 of the Constitution and ordered that the petition not be accepted for consideration.

Amarin reported that the ruling leaves the Election Commission’s use of barcodes on ballot papers unchanged. It also clarifies that challenges of this nature must follow the legal procedures established under existing constitutional and statutory frameworks.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 11 June 2026

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Woman Ignores Phuket Red Flags, Lifeguards Respond

A foreign woman sparked alarm on Patong Beach in Phuket on 10 June 2026 after she grabbed a red warning flag and ran into the sea despite dangerous conditions, prompting lifeguards to intervene.

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The incident took place on Patong Beach in Kathu district, where strong waves and hazardous conditions had led authorities to display red flags warning visitors not to enter the water. The woman’s actions caused concern among tourists and local residents who witnessed the scene.



Parts of the event was captured on video by Facebook user Sarid Pongpaew, who later shared the footage online. Accompanying the clip was the message: “Live drama with no script. A foreign woman, grabbed a red flag and ran into the sea. Fortunately, Patong Beach lifeguards managed to help her. Thank you.”

Video footage shows the woman, wearing only a shirt and no underwear, running into the water while rough sea conditions persisted along the beach. Lifeguards stationed nearby quickly noticed the situation and rushed to assist, fearing she could be swept into danger by the strong surf.



The situation became more complicated when the woman reportedly refused to cooperate with rescuers. After leaving the water, she ran along the beach and headed towards a rocky area, forcing lifeguards to follow closely while attempting to keep her safe.

Witnesses then saw the woman run back into the sea for a second time, further increasing concerns among those watching from the shore. Lifeguards continued their efforts to prevent her from entering deeper water and to bring the situation under control.

Their intervention was ultimately successful, and the woman was safely escorted back onto the beach. No injuries were reported during the incident.


Pictures courtesy of Naewna

Following the rescue, lifeguards contacted officers from Patong Police Station, who attended the scene and took the woman into their care. Police were expected to assess her condition and speak with her to determine the reason for her actions.

Authorities have not yet established what motivated the woman, who was not identified by authorities, to repeatedly enter the sea despite the red-flag warning and dangerous conditions. Further enquiries are expected as officials continue to review the incident.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 10 June 2026
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Motorcycle Taxi Riders Assault Man in Pattaya Car Park

A 20-year-old Thai man was seriously injured after allegedly being assaulted by a group of motorcycle taxi riders in Pattaya during the early hours of June 10. The incident unfolded at around 1.30am in the car park of Xzyte Square Pattaya, a popular dining and nightlife complex in Pattaya, Chon Buri province.

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The victim suffered significant facial injuries and required urgent hospital treatment after reportedly being punched and kicked by multiple attackers who later fled the scene on motorcycles. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre received reports of a fight and an injured person at the complex and dispatched rescue workers to the scene. Officers from Pattaya City Police Station also attended to investigate the incident.

Rescue personnel found the injured man, identified as Apithan, lying semiconscious, at the side of the road. He had severe swelling to his face, a laceration near his left eyelid and was reportedly unable to speak clearly due to his injuries. Emergency responders provided first aid before transporting him to hospital for urgent medical treatment.

According to a female friend who witnessed the attack, the victim’s group had been socialising and drinking at a venue inside the complex before deciding to leave. As they walked past a motorcycle taxi queue within the area, Apithan and several motorcycle taxi riders allegedly exchanged hostile looks.



The witness told police that the confrontation quickly escalated. The motorcycle taxi riders allegedly contacted associates, with around seven to eight motorcycles arriving at the scene shortly afterwards.

A group of riders then allegedly surrounded Apithan and launched a violent attack, repeatedly punching and kicking him. The assault continued until he lost consciousness and collapsed to the ground.

The attack reportedly took place in full view of numerous tourists and visitors who were present in the area at the time. After the assault, the alleged attackers quickly left the scene on their motorcycles before police arrived.

Authorities have not yet announced any arrests. However, police have begun gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses as part of their investigation.

Officers documented the scene and collected physical evidence before reviewing CCTV footage from cameras installed throughout the complex. Investigators hope the recordings will help identify the individuals involved and support efforts to bring them before the courts.

Under Section 295 of Thailand’s Criminal Code, causing bodily or mental harm to another person may constitute assault. The offence carries a penalty of up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both.

Police said investigations are continuing and further updates are expected once officers have completed their review of CCTV footage and identified the suspects involved in the alleged attack.


Pictures courtesy of SiamChon

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Adapted by ASEAN Now SiamChon 10 June 2026
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Police Bust Illegal Guns Seller in Min Buri

Police from the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s Investigation Division have arrested a former vocational college student accused of manufacturing and selling illegal firearms through Facebook. The operation led to the seizure of firearms, ammunition, gun parts and production equipment from a residence in the Min Buri area of Bangkok.

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The arrest was carried out on 9 June under the direction of Pol Gen Thana Chuwong, Deputy National Police Chief, Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phiwphan, Deputy Inspector General, Pol Lt Gen Sayam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Pol Maj Gen Wasan Techa-akrakasem, Deputy Commissioner, and Pol Maj Gen Chotiwat Luangwilai, Commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau Investigation Division. Authorities said the operation formed part of an ongoing crackdown on crime, particularly offences committed through online platforms.

Pol Col Santi Kornkasem, Superintendent of Investigation Division 4, led officers in arresting 40-year-old Plakorn Sutti-art. Seized items included one .380 calibre handgun, one .22 calibre rifle, four rounds of .380 ammunition, 33 rounds of .22 ammunition, 15 rounds of assorted rifle ammunition, three magazines, 12 gun barrels and various items used in firearm production.

Investigators began the case after receiving information from an informant about a Facebook group used to buy, sell and exchange illegal firearms. Police found that the group had nearly 10,000 members and identified the suspect as allegedly offering illegal weapons for sale through the page.



Officers arranged an undercover purchase of a .380 calibre firearm for 14,000 baht. A meeting was arranged in the car park of a parcel delivery facility in the Min Buri area of Bangkok. When the suspect arrived with the weapon, officers moved in and made the arrest before extending the investigation to a room at the Romklao 2 Eua Arthorn housing estate on Kheha Romklao Road in Khlong Song Ton Nun, Lat Krabang district, where additional evidence was seized.

During questioning, Plakorn allegedly admitted selling firearms and ammunition through the Facebook page. He told investigators he purchased blank-firing guns and modified them by fitting barrels so they could fire live ammunition. He said he had lost his job and wanted additional income to support his family, adding that his automotive engineering background gave him the technical knowledge required.

Police charged him with possession of firearms and ammunition without permission, carrying firearms and ammunition in a public place without reasonable cause, selling firearms without a licence, and manufacturing, modifying, repairing or selling firearms for commercial purposes without authorisation.

Daily News reported that the suspect and seized items were handed to investigators at Min Buri Police Station for legal proceedings. Authorities said they will continue expanding the investigation to identify others involved in purchasing and distributing illegal firearms.


Pictures courtesy of Daily News

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 10 June 2026
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Foreign Woman Strips Naked & Causes Disturbance in Phuket

A foreign woman was taken into police custody after stripping naked and causing a disturbance near Surin Beach in Phuket on 9 June 2026. The incident drew widespread attention after a video was shared on Facebook, showing the woman unclothed and behaving aggressively in a public area.

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The footage was posted with the message: “Haaa, she’s naked now. They’ve grabbed her now. Grabbed her now. Wow. #FreeVisa”. The clip quickly circulated online and generated significant discussion on social media.

The incident took place near Surin Beach on Srisoonthorn Road in Cherng Talay, Thalang district, Phuket. According to the video and witness accounts, the foreign tourist was completely unclothed and appeared to be either intoxicated or under the influence of drugs and in a distressed state.

She was seen walking on the road, shouting loudly, before entering a nearby massage shop where she caused further disruption and attacked a woman. Staff at the shop and a foreign man attempted to cover her with a towel, but the woman reportedly removed it and continued behaving aggressively.


Picture courtesy of Daily News

Witnesses said the woman’s actions alarmed local residents, business operators and tourists in the area. The individual who shared the video stated that she had been travelling alone and appeared intoxicated.

According to witness accounts, the woman moved around businesses near Surin Beach causing disturbances, attempting to assault people, grabbing one person by the hair, striking vehicles and chasing members of the public. Concerned residents subsequently contacted authorities for assistance.

Officers from Cherng Talay Police Station and relevant agencies attended the scene following reports of the disturbance. Authorities approached the situation with caution before successfully bringing the woman under control.

She was then taken to Cherng Talay Police Station to calm down while officers began inquiries into the cause of her apparent distressed or erratic behaviour. Police are also considering what legal action may be appropriate under Thai law.

The Daily News reported that the investigation remains ongoing and further details have not yet been released by authorities on the woman’s name or nationality.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 10 June 2026
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Finnish Court Jails Polarica Ex-CEO in Thai Trafficking Case

A Finnish court has sentenced the former chief executive of wild berry company Polarica to two years and six months in prison after finding him guilty of 78 counts of human trafficking involving Thai berry pickers. The ruling concerns the exploitation of Thai workers who travelled to Finland in 2022 to collect wild berries under conditions the court determined amounted to forced labour.

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The Lapland District Court delivered its verdict on 9 June, sentencing Jukka Kristo, the former CEO of Polarica, for human trafficking offences linked to the recruitment and employment of Thai workers. The court found that the workers had been misled about their expected earnings and actual working conditions before travelling to Finland.

Thai coordinator Kallayakorn “Durian” Phongphit was also convicted on 78 counts of human trafficking and sentenced to nine months in prison. The court reduced her sentence because she had already received a three-year prison term last year in a separate human trafficking case involving another wild berry company.



Finnish public media has described the case as the largest human trafficking case in the country’s history. Dozens of Thai workers were identified as victims.

During the trial, the court heard that the workers were recruited from Thailand and encouraged to travel to Finland to pick naturally growing wild berries. Upon arrival, they became responsible for travel expenses, accommodation costs and other charges, leaving many in debt from the outset.

Although the workers reportedly laboured long hours with little or no time off, the court found that they retained very little income after deductions. It also determined that some accommodation provided was overcrowded and of poor quality, while charges for lodging were unreasonably high.

Most of the workers had only primary school education and spoke only Thai, limiting their access to information and assistance. The court concluded that their financial dependence and lack of alternatives left them with little choice but to continue working, resulting in conditions that constituted forced labour under Finnish law.

The court also imposed a five-year business ban on Kristo and stripped him of his military rank. Kristo, Phongphit and Polarica were ordered to jointly pay approximately EUR500,000 in compensation to the victims for financial losses and emotional suffering, as well as roughly EUR400,000 in legal costs. Polarica was additionally fined EUR150,000.

Both defendants continue to deny the allegations and may appeal the ruling. Prosecutors have also indicated they will appeal, seeking a five-year prison sentence as originally requested.

ThaiRath reported that Finnish authorities are continuing broader scrutiny of the wild berry industry, which relies heavily on foreign workers, particularly from Thailand. The case follows a separate investigation in late May which found that several berry companies, including Polarica, may have cooperated in fixing berry purchase prices between 2013 and 2023, potentially suppressing workers’ earnings.


Picture courtesy of ThaiRath

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Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 10 June 2026
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Ukrainian Suspect Arrested at Samui Airport

A 30-year-old Ukrainian national wanted in connection with an alleged nominee shareholding scheme on Koh Phangan has been arrested at Samui International Airport after returning to Thailand.

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Immigration officers in Surat Thani, working with Koh Phangan Police and the Central Investigation Bureau, arrested Anatolii Plushev on 8 June 2026 after he arrived on a flight into Samui. He was the subject of an arrest warrant issued by Koh Samui Provincial Court, warrant number 121/2569, dated 21 May 2026.

The arrest stems from the Royal Thai Police operation “Crackdown on Foreign Nominees on Koh Phangan”, launched on 13 and 23 May 2026. The operation targeted businesses suspected of using Thai nationals as nominee shareholders to enable foreign ownership of land and business interests in violation of Thai law.

Investigators gathered evidence leading to arrest warrants for 45 individuals linked to the alleged schemes. Authorities have so far arrested 26 suspects, while 19 remain at large and are being pursued.



According to investigators, Plushev was allegedly involved in submitting false documents to land officials in order to obtain land ownership through a company established using Thai nominee shareholders. He was identified as a shareholder in Rubicon Co., Ltd.

Authorities said the suspect left Thailand before the court approved the arrest warrant. After learning that he intended to return to the country through Samui International Airport, officers monitored his arrival and arrested him immediately upon entry.

During questioning, Plushev confirmed he was the individual named in the warrant. He reportedly told investigators that he became a shareholder alongside his father and helped establish Rubicon Co., Ltd. to acquire land.

The suspect was transferred to investigators at Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings. The case forms part of a wider government and police effort to combat nominee business structures, illegal land ownership, unlawful business operations and practices that authorities say can affect employment opportunities for Thai citizens in key tourist destinations.

The Daily News reported that further investigations are continuing as police seek to locate and arrest the remaining 19 suspects connected to the cases.


Pictures courtesy of Daily News

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 10 June 2026
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Thaksin to Leave for Dubai After Royal Pardon

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is expected to depart for Dubai on Friday after now being fully released from parole following his royal pardon. His return date has not been disclosed and it remains unclear how long he intends to stay in the United Arab Emirates.

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The Department of Corrections confirmed on 9 June that Thaksin’s release was now fully completed and had been carried out in accordance with the Royal Decree on Pardons 2026. Officials stated that he had complied with all parole conditions since being released from Klong Prem Central Prison on 11 May 2026.

Under the decree, which was issued on 3 June 2026, Thaksin qualified for a pardon as a parolee aged over 60 with less than three years of his remaining prison sentence outstanding. Following a review by the relevant authorities, his EM device was removed and he now been issued with an official certificate of release, confirming that he had completed his sentence and was no longer subject to any criminal penalties or supervision.

Thaksin had originally been serving a one-year prison sentence after receiving a previous royal reduction of an eight-year term. Following his return to Thailand in 2023 after nearly two decades in self-imposed exile, he spent six months at Police Hospital before being released on parole. He later returned to prison for a further period before being released again last month.

The Department of Corrections stressed that the decision was made under the same legal criteria applied to all eligible parolees under the Royal Decree. Officials said the process followed all legal requirements and was conducted in a transparent manner.

Speculation continues over whether Thaksin’s sister, former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who has remained overseas since leaving Thailand nine years ago, may meet him during his stay in Dubai.

Thaksin remains an influential figure within the Pheu Thai Party. His daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was removed from the premiership by court order last year over an ethics-related case linked to a leaked telephone conversation with Cambodian leader Hun Sen. Following this year’s election, his nephew Yodchanan Wongsawat joined the Bhumjaithai-led coalition government as deputy prime minister and higher education, science, research and innovation minister.

ThaiNewsRoom reported that future developments are likely to focus on the duration of Thaksin’s stay abroad and any political implications arising from his activities while overseas.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thainewsroom 10 June 2026
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Krabi Seaplane Pilot Scheme Set for Phuket Route

The Thai government has announced plans to introduce seaplane services in the Andaman region as part of a wider strategy to develop Thailand into a regional aviation hub and attract higher-spending tourists.

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On 9 June 2026, Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Pherdsriwattana said the government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, is moving forward with efforts to strengthen the country’s transport and tourism sectors. The initiative aims to position Thailand as an Aviation Hub while supporting quality tourism and generating greater economic value in destinations across the country.

The announcement follows a visit by Deputy Transport Minister Pattarapong Pattarasit to Krabi International Airport, where he met with government agencies and private-sector representatives to discuss the introduction of seaplane services. The proposed service is intended to improve connections between key Andaman tourism destinations and provide a faster and more convenient travel option for international visitors.

Pattarapong said the Ministry of Transport aims to develop Krabi International Airport as an “Airport for Regional Development”. The concept focuses on seamless links between the airport and nearby islands and marine tourism destinations, supporting future growth in the tourism industry. He said seaplanes would become part of the transport infrastructure designed to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.



To advance the project, the ministry is establishing a Strategic Integration Committee for Seaplane Operations. The committee will bring together government agencies, aviation specialists and private-sector stakeholders to develop operational guidelines under aviation safety standards. Pattarapong has been appointed chairman of the committee by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn.

According to the government, seaplane operations could support not only high-value and high-spending tourists but also related industries including aviation, tourism, hotels, restaurants, service businesses, emergency medical services and maritime security operations. Officials believe the project could create jobs and generate additional income for local communities.

Pattarapong confirmed that Krabi will serve as Thailand’s first pilot province for seaplane services. Trial flights on the Krabi-Phuket route are expected to begin during 2026, marking what the government describes as an important step in developing a new form of air transport for the country and a model for other coastal tourism areas.

Amarin reported that Lalida said the government is focused on creating an integrated transport system linking travel, tourism and economic development. She said the Andaman seaplane project is intended to enhance the visitor experience, increase local economic value and strengthen Thailand’s position as a global tourism destination.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 10 June 2026
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Lao Man Killed by Falling Lift in Pattaya Hotel

A 32-year-old Lao national was killed after a lift car fell on him inside an abandoned hotel in Pattaya, Chonburi, on 9 June 2026. Emergency services, forensic officers and police were called to the former four-star hotel on Soi Yume, after receiving a report that a person had been trapped beneath a falling lift.

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The abandoned hotel, which has more than 300 rooms, has remained vacant since closing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Investigators found the lift car at ground-floor level inside a five-storey section of the building. Beneath it was the body of the victim, identified from documents found in a black shoulder bag as Mr Kanthawisak Wongphuthon, 32, from Laos.

Police said the victim’s right wrist was visible beneath the lift, while his head was submerged in standing water at the bottom of the lift shaft. His neck and lower body had been crushed beneath the lift car. Rescue workers used heavy lifting equipment to raise the lift, which weighed at least 500 kilograms, and it took more than two hours to recover the body.



A preliminary examination found that the victim had suffered a broken neck and severe crushing injuries. Officers from Pattaya City Police Station, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Itthikon Saikrathok, and forensic investigators from Chonburi Crime Scene Investigation Unit 2 examined the scene.

Rescuers said an anonymous caller had reported the incident to the Sawang Boriboon Foundation emergency centre. However, when operators attempted to call back, the person did not answer. Upon arrival, no one was present at the scene and volunteers only discovered the victim after searching the lift shaft.

Local residents told police that the deceased had been living inside the abandoned hotel with a friend described as a dark-skinned man with closely cropped hair. The friend was not found at the scene and has since disappeared. Police are attempting to locate him for questioning as a potential witness.



The hotel caretaker said the property has been left derelict for years and is frequently occupied by squatters and homeless people. He stated that items had repeatedly been stolen from the building and that the lift had never been removed despite the hotel’s closure.

Investigators have not yet determined the exact cause of the incident. A preliminary theory suggests the victim may have entered the flooded pit beneath the lift, possibly to bathe and inadvertently disturbed the ageing mechanism.

Amarin reported that police noted that the lift cables remained intact, although the equipment was in a severely deteriorated condition. Police and forensic officers are continuing their investigation and will examine all evidence before determining the cause of the fatal incident.


Pictures courtesy of Amarin

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 10 June 2026
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Chinese-Owned Steel Mills Face Scrutiny in Thailand

A Thai reporter has alleged that Chinese-backed investors are using local companies as fronts to operate steel plants in Thailand, while producing substandard steel and bypassing environmental regulations. The claims focus on steelmaker Sin Ke Yuan and at least 10 steel plants previously ordered to suspend operations over concerns including product quality, production methods and regulatory compliance.

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On 8 June, reporter and news presenter Montri Udompong published allegations regarding Chinese investment in Thailand’s steel and heavy industry sectors. He claimed some factories had resumed operations after authorities determined that corrective measures had been completed and that their steel products met required standards.

According to Montri, one key concern is that several steel plants were not operating in accordance with their approved Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) documents. He alleged that some facilities registered as induction furnace (IF) plants with steel refining furnaces, but inspections found no such refining equipment installed.

He also claimed that some factories declared the use of electric arc furnace (EAF) technology in official documentation but were actually operating induction furnace systems. Other alleged violations included the installation of unauthorised equipment, removal of approved equipment and factory expansions carried out without prior approval.

Montri further alleged that some steel plants had effectively been taken over by Chinese investors while retaining the names and licences of Thai-owned businesses. He claimed these operations employed Chinese supervisors and, in some cases, Chinese nationals working on tourist visas.

The allegations come amid wider scrutiny of Sin Ke Yuan, which has been discussed extensively on social media following reports that SKY-branded steel produced by the company was used in the collapsed State Audit Office building. Montri stated that while the steel was present in the project, it was not identified as the cause of the collapse. However, he argued that any failure to meet Thai Industrial Standards Institute requirements remained a separate regulatory issue.

He also questioned whether officials at various levels of government could have been unaware of the alleged violations, citing processes involving factory licensing, public consultations, machinery installation approvals, industrial standards certification and investment promotion.

Montri said any officials found to have improperly performed or neglected their duties could face scrutiny under Section 157 of Thailand’s Criminal Code, while allegations involving improper benefits could potentially relate to Section 149.

Manager Online reported that authorities are expected to face continued pressure to investigate Sin Ke Yuan and other steel and industrial facilities linked to foreign investment. Montri argued that public monitoring and social pressure would remain important as questions continue over environmental compliance, industrial standards and regulatory enforcement across multiple sectors.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 10 June 2026
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Ranong Police and US Step Up Border Nuclear Detection

Police in Ranong have joined US officials and multiple Thai security agencies in efforts to strengthen the detection and prevention of nuclear and radioactive material smuggling along the Thai-Myanmar border.

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On 8 June, Major General Thanawat Watthanakun, Commander of Ranong Provincial Police, led a consultation meeting under the NSDD (Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence) Thailand ISLE (Implementation and Sustainment Local Execution) Survey project. He was joined by deputy commanders Pol Col Seksan Kaewsawang, Pol Col Monthian Baethong, Pol Col Sutthi Nitiakkharaphong and Pol Col Sombat Chumphon, alongside representatives from customs, provincial administration, maritime security agencies, military units, immigration, forensic police, Border Patrol Police, Marine Police, Special Branch, investigation units and local police stations.

The meeting focused on preventing and detecting the illegal transport of nuclear and radioactive materials. Participants discussed global security threats posed by radioactive and nuclear materials that fall outside regulatory control, known as MORC (Material Out of Regulatory Control)

The Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD) programme is operated by the US National Nuclear Security Administration under the US Department of Energy. Its objective is to help partner countries install systems capable of detecting and intercepting illicit nuclear material that could potentially be used in weapons or so-called “dirty bombs”.



The ISLE Survey is a site assessment process designed to identify vulnerabilities, determine the most suitable radiation detection equipment for specific locations and assess training requirements for personnel. Information gathered during the survey will be used to develop permanent protection systems.

Officials said the selection of Ranong for the survey reflects its strategic role as a frontline province. The area is viewed as an important point for intercepting potential threats before they can move further into other parts of Thailand.

The discussions also highlighted cooperation between Thai and US authorities, as well as coordination among local law enforcement, military and border security agencies operating in the province.

Thaitabloid reported that future planning will be based on the survey findings, which are expected to guide the installation of detection systems and the development of long-term measures to strengthen border security against nuclear and radioactive material smuggling.


Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 10 June 2026
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Chinese Migrants Van Crash Kills Rider During Mae Sot Chase

A motorcycle delivery rider was killed during a police pursuit in Mae Sot, Tak province, on 9 June 2026 after a pickup truck carrying four Chinese nationals attempted to evade officers and drove against traffic.

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The incident occurred on the Mae Sot-Rim Moei Road near the Phattharawit intersection in Tha Sai Luat subdistrict. According to police, the pickup truck, registration from Tak, was being driven by Sakchai Trakulpriyaphong, an ethnic Hmong man from Phop Phra district, who was transporting four Chinese nationals.

Police said the driver became alarmed after spotting officers and suddenly turned around before driving the wrong way along the road in an attempt to escape. During the pursuit, the pickup collided with a motorcycle ridden by acting Wisanu Thongprathueang, 35, a delivery rider travelling in the correct direction near a private school.

Wisanu was killed instantly at the scene. Police said the driver did not stop following the collision and instead continued fleeing towards Mae Sot municipality.



As the chase continued, the suspect allegedly attempted to release the four Chinese passengers along the roadside in an effort to help them evade capture. Officers from Mae Sot Police Station pursued the vehicle and eventually fired at its tyres to prevent further danger to the public.

The pursuit ended about seven kilometres from the crash site when the pickup left the road. Police reported that all four tyres had been punctured and that the vehicle had sustained eight bullet impacts to the bonnet.

Officers arrested Sakchai at the scene and launched a search for the four Chinese nationals. Three men were later apprehended, while one person remains at large..


Picture courtesy of Daily News

Pol Col Rang Daodung, superintendent of Mae Sot Police Station, said the suspect was a Thai national of Hmong ethnicity and was believed to have been transporting illegal migrants for payment. He said the driver panicked when confronted by police and drove against traffic, causing the fatal collision.

Daily News reported that the superintendent added that officers considered the use of tyre-deflation gunfire necessary to prevent further harm to members of the public. The suspect and those arrested have been handed over to investigators for legal proceedings, while the search for the remaining fugitive continues.

Caution video shows fatal collision
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 10 June 2026
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Thailand Education System Fails Poor Pupils, Experts Warn

Thailand’s education system is failing to provide genuinely free and equitable schooling, with experts warning that current policies are deepening inequality and limiting opportunities for disadvantaged children.

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Speaking at a Nation Visionary Club roundtable on Monday 8 June 2026, education specialists and student representatives said poor families continue to face significant education costs despite nearly 20 years of free education policies. They argued that children from low-income households not only pay more than they can afford but also receive a lower quality of education than wealthier students.

Dr Kraiyos Patrawart, managing director of the Equitable Education Fund (EEF), said data collected over nearly two decades shows Thailand’s education system is not truly free. He noted that the Covid-19 pandemic increased the number of economically disadvantaged students, with figures falling briefly before rising again in the post-pandemic period.

According to Dr Kraiyos, households in the poorest tenth of the population still spend about 10,000 baht annually on their children’s education. Families in the wealthiest tenth spend around seven and a half times more. He described this as a “two-dimensional inequality”, where poorer families face financial burdens while receiving lower-quality education.

The disparity is also reflected in learning outcomes. While Thailand regularly produces world-class students who win gold and silver medals in international academic Olympiads, Dr Kraiyos said roughly two-thirds of the population remains below the OECD baseline standard for learning proficiency.

Parit Wacharasindhu of the People’s Party said Thailand would fail if quality education could only be accessed through international schools. He argued that public education is currently neither sufficiently high in quality nor genuinely free, despite substantial government spending on the sector.

A major concern raised during the discussion was the Ministry of Education’s per-pupil funding model. Under the system, schools receive funding based on student numbers, leaving many rural schools with insufficient budgets to cover basic operating costs. In some cases, primary schools covering six year levels have fewer than six teachers, requiring one teacher to teach multiple year groups at the same time.

Student representative Krai Satarak of Chulalongkorn University said the problem is compounded by a national curriculum that often ignores local needs. Drawing on fieldwork in Nan province, he described students leaving school to help on family greenhouse farms despite possessing valuable agricultural knowledge. He argued that the curriculum prioritises abstract subjects over practical skills relevant to local economies.

The Nation reported that Dr Kraiyos urged Thai society to reconsider the purpose of education in a future shaped by artificial intelligence, artificial general intelligence, brain-computer interfaces and quantum computing. He called for debate on future curricula, the role of the National Education Act and whether memorisation-based learning should continue to dominate classrooms.

The roundtable concluded that structural reforms are needed within the next decade. Participants called for needs-based funding, greater autonomy for schools and reform of the National Education Act, warning that the gap between well-resourced and under-resourced schools will widen further as technology advances.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 10 June 2026
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Couples Risqué Tuk-Tuk Fun Draws Criticism

Two foreign tourist couples have drawn criticism after being filmed engaging in suggestive behaviour aboard a moving tuk-tuk in Phuket, prompting concerns about the province’s image.

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On 9 June 2026, the Phuket Times Facebook page published a post claiming that two foreign couples were seen “playing around” on a tuk-tuk, with actions including spanking, straddling and provocative movements while travelling through Phuket. According to the post, the group also took turns filming each other to create social media content.

The page later shared additional images in the comments section. The images appeared to show a female tourist straddling a male companion while making physical contact and displaying behaviour many online viewers considered inappropriate for a public setting.

The footage and images quickly attracted attention on social media, where many users criticised the tourists’ conduct. Commenters argued that the behaviour was unsuitable in a public place and could damage Phuket’s reputation as a tourist destination.



Public reaction was largely focused on calls for stronger enforcement. Comments included claims that existing fines were too low to act as a deterrent, while others questioned why the tuk-tuk driver had not taken the tourists directly to a police station. Some users also called for substantial penalties and travel bans for those involved.

The incident follows ongoing public debate in Thailand about the conduct of some visitors at popular tourist destinations. Online discussion centred on whether authorities should take firmer action against behaviour viewed as disrespectful or disruptive in public areas.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation that authorities have identified the individuals shown in the footage or taken any legal action. No formal statement has been issued by the relevant agencies regarding an investigation into the incident.

Daily News reported that officials are expected to determine whether the matter warrants further review. Until then, the status of any potential enforcement action remains unclear.


Pictures courtesy of Daily News

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 9 June 2026
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Chinese-Linked Fraud Ring Leaders Arrested in Nonthaburi

Thai cybercrime police have arrested two alleged leaders of a fraud network accused of luring victims into fake online investment schemes linked to counterfeit luxury brand sales. The suspects, identified as Pakin “Lai”, 43, and Tipawan “Meena”, 33, were arrested in Nonthaburi province under Criminal Court warrants issued on 4 June 2026.

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The arrests were made following an investigation by the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) after victims reported being deceived through a Facebook page called “Clearance Sale Genuine Brand Bags”. The scheme caused financial losses after victims were persuaded to transfer increasing amounts of money under the guise of building credibility for an online shop.

According to police, victims were first invited via a Facebook link to join a group on the LINE messaging application, which was presented as an online trading community. Participants were encouraged to complete activities by transferring money in return for promised rewards.

In the early stages, victims reportedly received genuine returns, creating trust in the operation. However, they were later persuaded to transfer larger sums with promises of higher profits before eventually being unable to withdraw any funds, leading them to realise they had been defrauded.



Investigators traced financial transactions linked to the scheme and previously arrested a suspect identified as Niwat, who allegedly withdrew cash from mule accounts and recruited account holders through Facebook. Police said he arranged bank account openings and cash withdrawals in exchange for payments of around 5,000 baht per transaction.

Authorities seized mobile phones, ATM cards and vehicle-related documents during the earlier arrest. The investigation later expanded and identified additional members of the network.

Police allege that Pakin and Tipawan acted as operational leaders, directing the recruitment of mule accounts and ordering cash withdrawals. They are also accused of serving as intermediaries between the network and a Chinese man believed to be a key organiser and the primary beneficiary of the operation.

Police further revealed that Pakin has previous criminal convictions for assault and offences under immigration law. Both suspects have denied all allegations during questioning.

Matichon reported that the suspects have been transferred to investigators from Division 3 of the TCSD for legal proceedings. Authorities said efforts are continuing to identify and arrest other members of the network, particularly the Chinese suspect believed to be directing the fraud operation from behind the scenes.


Pictures courtesy of Matichon

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 9 June 2026
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Chinese Junior Ice Hockey Player Punches Thai Referee

A 14-year-old Chinese ice hockey player was disqualified after allegedly punching a Thai referee during the Bangkok Fly Ice Hockey Tournament 2026 at the Thailand International Ice Hockey Arena (TIIHA) on Rama 9 Road, Bangkok, late on Friday night. The incident occurred at around 23:00 during an Under-14 Division B match between Anesthetist and A/B Hockey and has prompted strong reaction within the local ice hockey community.

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The player accused of assaulting the referee was identified as Venom Liu, a 14-year-old forward from Chengdu, China, born on 16 January 2012. The referee, known as “Coach Ang”, was Sgt. Teerasak Rattanachot, a former member of Thailand’s men’s national ice hockey team who was officiating the match.

According to a parent from the Young Ducks Under-12 team who witnessed the incident, the confrontation began near the end of the game when player number 77 committed a foul and disagreed with the referee’s decision. The parent said the player initially chest-bumped the referee, leading to his ejection from the match under tournament rules.

As the player left the ice, he allegedly pushed the referee again before taking an opportunity to punch him. The witness stated that the referee’s decision had been correct and suggested the player may have been frustrated because his team was scoring very few points and trailing heavily. The parent also noted that the 14-year-old was his team’s key player and the only one scoring points.



Tournament organisers responded by imposing sanctions on the team. Nuchanart Ponglerkdee, known as “Coach Phung” and Tournament Organiser of the Bangkok Fly Ice Hockey Tournament 2026, confirmed that the Anesthetist team had been disqualified from its two remaining tournament matches and had since returned to China.

The witness said that physical assaults on referees are virtually unheard of in the sport, despite the physical nature of ice hockey. He added that players normally respect officials, accept penalties and serve time in the penalty box, even when they disagree with decisions.

The parent also criticised the behaviour of an adult who allegedly entered the playing area and pointed a finger in the referee’s face during the match. He said organisers should take greater steps to prevent parents from entering the rink and described the incident as something that should never occur in any sport.

Khaosod reported that officials have not announced any further disciplinary measures. However, the incident has highlighted concerns about player conduct, emotional control and sideline behaviour at youth sporting events.


Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 9 June 2026
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UK Officials Thank Thai Police Over Cannabis Smuggling Blacklist

British diplomatic and Home Office officials have thanked Thailand’s Royal Thai Police for strengthening enforcement measures and blacklisting foreign nationals involved in attempts to smuggle cannabis flower buds from Thailand to the United Kingdom and Europe.

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On 8 June, Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, assigned Deputy Commissioner-General Pol Gen Niran Leumsri to welcome and hold official talks with Mr David Thomas, Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy in Thailand, Mr Sam Bullimore, Deputy Director of Border Intelligence at the UK Home Office, and embassy officials at Royal Thai Police Headquarters in Bangkok.

The British delegation expressed appreciation for Thai authorities’ efforts to enforce the law and place British nationals involved in cannabis flower smuggling on Thailand’s blacklist. The measure is intended to help prevent criminal activity and stop the illegal movement of cannabis into the United Kingdom. The two sides also discussed expanding cooperation in law enforcement and integrating offender databases for wider security purposes.

Pol Gen Niran explained that the initiative stemmed from his role as the Royal Thai Police representative on the Customs Act Settlement Committee under the Customs Act B.E. 2560 (2017), chaired by the Director-General of the Customs Department. During committee work, authorities identified foreign nationals involved in illegal cross-border movements of gold, Thai currency and foreign currency, as well as cannabis exports destined for Europe.

He said customs cases can be settled through fines, which results in criminal proceedings being terminated without a formal criminal investigation. As a result, offender records were previously retained only by the Customs Department, leaving the Royal Thai Police and Immigration Bureau without access to the information. Some offenders were therefore able to repeatedly return to Thailand and reoffend, with some entering and leaving the country more than 50 times.

To address the issue, the Royal Thai Police and Customs Department established closer cooperation, linked the databases and shared customs offender records with the Immigration Bureau. This led to 86 foreign nationals being placed on Thailand’s blacklist. Among them were 35 British nationals who had attempted to export cannabis with the United Kingdom as their destination.

Authorities have also increased screening and enforcement measures at departure points. Between January and May 2026, Thai police intercepted 135 passengers attempting to take cannabis out of Thailand illegally. Of those cases, 68 involved travel to the United Kingdom, while 51 involved British nationals.

Matichon reported that officials said the measures contribute to wider security efforts and have improved the effectiveness of preventing illegal cannabis exports, particularly shipments destined for the United Kingdom.


Picture courtesy of Matichon

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 9 June 2026
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Yakuza Call Centre Boss Arrested at Suvarnabhumi

A Japanese Yakuza member accused of leading a major call centre scam operation was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport on 8 June 2026 as he allegedly attempted to leave Thailand for a third country.

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The suspect, Mr Takafumi Sugawara, 31, a Japanese national, was detained by officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Immigration Bureau. He was classified as a prohibited person under Thailand’s Immigration Act B.E. 2522, Section 12(7), which covers individuals believed to pose a threat to society, public safety, national security, or those wanted by foreign authorities.

Japanese investigators identified Sugawara as a senior member of a Yakuza organisation and the leader of a call centre scam network operating from Cambodia. According to the investigation, the gang used a three-stage telephone fraud scheme targeting victims in Japan.

The operation began with automated international calls falsely claiming to be from telecommunications company NTT, warning victims that their telephone service would be disconnected. Victims who pressed a designated number were connected to operators who collected personal information before transferring calls to other gang members posing as police officers and public prosecutors.

Victims were allegedly told they were linked to Yakuza criminal activity and were instructed to transfer money to prove their innocence. Investigators said the network was also involved in recruiting people in Japan through fake job advertisements before forcing them onto flights to Phnom Penh, where they were allegedly detained and compelled to work as call centre operators. Authorities said the network was linked to at least 40 fraud cases during 2024 and obtained more than 1 billion yen.

The Anti-Online Scam Centre (ACSC) and the CIB’s transnational crime unit received information from the Japanese Embassy indicating that Sugawara had been using Thailand as a hiding place while evading prosecution in Japan. Investigators later discovered he had booked a flight to another country and deployed undercover officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Thaitabloid reported that police located Sugawara near a check-in counter shortly before it closed and moved in to arrest him. Authorities revoked his permission to remain in Thailand and transferred him to an immigration detention facility pending deportation. Officials said Sugawara will be returned to Japan to face legal proceedings under Japanese law.


Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 9 June 2026
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Koh Samui Court Revokes Brit’s Bail Over Fatal Crash

A British businessman accused of causing a fatal motorcycle crash on Koh Phangan has been remanded in custody after the Koh Samui Provincial Court revoked his bail. The decision follows the death of Associate Professor Dr Teerasak Kaewamtuang, known locally as “Dr Ton”, who died on 7 June 2026 after spending 15 days in hospital with severe brain injuries.

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Duncan Wilcock, 51, a British national and owner of Reef Charter Co Ltd, based at Wok Tum Beach in Koh Phangan, Surat Thani province, appeared at Koh Phangan Police Station on 8 June to acknowledge an additional charge of reckless driving causing death. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to 200,000 baht. He entered a partial denial to the charge.

The case stems from a crash on the night of 23 May, when Duncan riding a motorcycle that struck Dr Teerasak as he was exercising along a road in Moo 1, Koh Phangan. The collision occurred at 9.21pm and left the doctor with critical head injuries. Despite surgery and intensive treatment, he later died from his injuries.

Before the doctor’s death, Wilcock had been granted bail during the detention stage of the investigation, with a condition prohibiting him from leaving Thailand. However, police later sought the cancellation of his bail after the case escalated and the additional charge emerged.


Picture courtesy of Daily News

Investigators told the court that Wilcòck now faces 11 criminal charges in total, including offences linked to the fatal crash, drug use, nominee business activities and the operation of an illegal tour company. Police argued that the increased severity of the case and the potential penalties created a risk that he could flee.

According to police, Duncan attempted to delay proceedings by requesting time to wait for a lawyer travelling from another province. Investigators rejected the request and escorted him to court. At 3.45pm on 8 June, the Koh Samui Provincial Court ordered the cancellation of his bail and issued a detention warrant. He was transferred immediately to Koh Samui Prison.

The death of Dr Teerasak has prompted an outpouring of grief on Koh Phangan. The Koh Phangan Hospital Facebook page posted a tribute describing him as a highly skilled respiratory and critical care specialist who provided treatment for local residents. The hospital also called on relevant authorities to enforce stricter controls on foreign motorists and intensify efforts to combat drug abuse on the island.

The Daily News reported that as the investigation continues, Wilcock now remains in custody while legal proceedings move forward on all 11 charges.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 9 June 2026
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FBI Conference Unites 26 Nations in Bangkok

Thailand’s national police chief officially opened the 26th FBI National Academy Associates (FBINAA) Asia Pacific Chapter Retraining Conference, bringing together more than 150 senior law enforcement representatives from 26 countries in Bangkok. The event marks the 40th anniversary of cooperation between Thailand and the FBINAA Asia Pacific network and focuses on strengthening international efforts against transnational organised crime in the digital era.

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Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, presided over the opening ceremony at the Grand Centre Point Lumphini Hotel in Bangkok. Senior Thai police officials joined representatives from international law enforcement agencies, including FBINAA President William J. Carbone, FBI Associate Deputy Director Andrew Bailey, US Ambassador to Thailand Sean K. O’Neill, and Pol Gen Visanu Prasarttong-Osoth, President of the FBI National Academy Associates Thailand Chapter.

The conference is being held under the theme “United in Action: Combating Transnational Organised Crime in the Digital Age”. Organisers said the gathering reflects the growing challenges posed by increasingly complex, borderless crimes driven by modern technology.

Speaking at the event, Pol Gen Kitrat said criminal networks are exploiting digital tools to expand their operations and avoid detection. He highlighted online fraud as a major concern, noting that it causes widespread financial damage and undermines public confidence.


Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid

Thailand is facing similar challenges, particularly the rise in cybercrime. The police chief said these threats underline the need for stronger international cooperation through information sharing, joint operations and enhanced law enforcement capabilities.

He added that the conference provides an important platform to deepen cooperation among partner agencies and strengthen operational networks. Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with international partners to address shared security threats.

The relationship between Thailand and the FBINAA Asia Pacific network spans four decades. In 1986, Thailand became the first country in history to host the FBINAA Asia Pacific Chapter conference, which was held in Pattaya, Chonburi province.

Since then, the network has expanded to cover 49 countries and includes more than 14,000 senior law enforcement members across 173 countries worldwide. All members are graduates of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, United States.

Thaitabloid reported that according to Pol Gen Visanu, Thailand’s selection as host nation for the 40th anniversary conference marks only the third time the country has hosted the event. He said the decision reflects the confidence the international law enforcement community places in the Royal Thai Police and Bangkok’s ability to serve as a venue for global knowledge-sharing and cooperation.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 9 June 2026
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EV Station PluZ to Start 10-Baht Idle Fee Nationwide

EV Station PluZ has announced a new idle fee policy targeting electric vehicle (EV) drivers who leave their cars connected to chargers after charging has finished. The measure is designed to reduce charger congestion and improve access for other users across Thailand’s charging network.

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Under the new rules, drivers who do not disconnect the charging cable and move their vehicle within three minutes of a charging session ending will face a penalty. A preparation period will run from 9-30 June 2026, during which the idle fee will be set at 1 baht per minute. From 1 July 2026 onwards, the full charge of 10 baht per minute will apply.

The policy was announced on 7 June 2026 via the EV Station PluZ Facebook page. The charging network is operated by PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR), which said the move aims to address complaints from EV users who are forced to wait for occupied chargers, sometimes losing valuable charging opportunities because only limited time remains available for their own charging sessions.

The idle fee will apply at all EV Station PluZ locations and across all AC and DC charging points. Charges will be collected through the payment method linked to each user’s account at 2pm on the following day and will appear separately from the original charging transaction.



Users will be able to review any penalties through the EV Station PluZ mobile application. The company will also send notification alerts whenever an idle fee has been incurred.

In addition to the new penalty system, the EV Station PluZ application will introduce a dedicated idle fee feature on 9 June 2026. The company will also adjust its reservation system, limiting bookings to three slots per account.

EV Station PluZ currently operates 1,300 charging stations nationwide. These are located at PTT Station service stations, LPG Auto Stations, NGV Stations and off-site locations including office buildings, shopping centres, hospitals, hotels, restaurants and resorts. The company states that the average distance between charging stations is no more than 100 kilometres, providing coverage across every province in Thailand.

Manager Online reported that the network is also continuing to expand its high-capacity EV HUB facilities. These sites provide charging power of up to 180kW per charging point and offer at least six charging connectors per location. Ten EV HUB sites are currently operating on major routes across the country.


Pictures courtesy of MGR online

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Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 9 June 2026
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