US Security Officer Identified as Victim in Yangon Killing

Today in the headlines, get ready for a dry weekend in Bangkok and Pattaya as elections are set to be held, in ASEAN News a US diplomat has been identified as a murder victim in Yangon, then a Thai businessman recovered 400,000 bah stolen during a flight by a fellow passenger, in our foreigners behaving badly for the day we have a couple of British lads finding themselves on the wrong side of the law, in a religious information segment we're going to explore the concept of polygamy as it pertains to Buddhism, and in our feel good news we'll find out exactly where Thailand's islands rank on the list of the world's best.

Bangkok and Pattaya Introduce Election Weekend Alcohol Ban

Bangkok and Pattaya will ban alcohol sales from 6pm on June 27 until 6pm on June 28 during local elections.

The ban covers alcohol sales, distribution, giveaways and related events throughout the affected constituencies.

Violators face up to six months in prison, a 10,000-baht fine, or both.

US Security Officer Identified as Victim in Yangon Killing

US Diplomatic Security Service officer Daniel Riva has been identified as the American found dead in Yangon in May after suffering fatal stab wounds.

His Thai former wife has been charged with murder following her initial detention on immigration offences.

Authorities continue to investigate the case under Myanmar's military-controlled judicial system.

Thai Businessman Recovers Nearly 400,000 Baht Stolen During Flight

Thai businessman Anuchart Rojpitipongsathon recovered nearly 400,000 baht after catching a fellow passenger who allegedly stole cash from his bag during a flight to Hong Kong.

He became suspicious after seeing the passenger access the overhead compartment before the money disappeared.

Although he recovered the cash, Anuchart declined to press charges and urged travellers to keep valuables with them.

British Motorist Charged Following Phuket Barrier Collision

A 28-year-old British man was arrested for drink driving after crashing an SUV into traffic barriers at Chalong Intersection in Phuket.

Police said his blood alcohol reading was 184 milligrams per cent, more than three times Thailand's legal limit.

He faces drink-driving charges, with additional charges possible for damaging public property.

British Man Detained After Attack on Chiang Mai Officer

A British man was detained after allegedly spitting on and repeatedly punching a police officer near Chiang Mai's Tha Phae Gate.

Police said he shouted abuse and became physically aggressive before officers restrained and arrested him.

Authorities added that he had previously caused disturbances involving official vehicles.

Koh Samui Named Asia-Pacific’s Leading Island

Koh Samui has been named the best island in the Asia-Pacific region in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2026.

Samui International Airport ranked second among regional airports, while five local resorts made Thailand's top ten beach and island resorts.

Officials said they will continue focusing on sustainable tourism, safety and improved transport links.

Buddhist Teachings Focus on Harm Rather Than Number of Partners

Buddhism does not require monogamy, as it generally treats marriage as a secular matter rather than a religious one.

Instead, its teachings focus on avoiding sexual misconduct such as betrayal, coercion and exploitation.

Although polygamy was legal in Thailand until 1935, Buddhist teachings still encourage moderation and fewer attachments.

Possible Thousand-Year-Old Temple Ruins Located on Lake Island

Researchers believe they have discovered the remains of an ancient temple on an island in Sakon Nakhon's Nong Han Lake.

The team found a possible temple base, sandstone blocks and other archaeological remains, despite signs of disturbance by suspected treasure hunters.

Further surveys will be conducted with the Fine Arts Department to determine the site's historical significance.