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Thai police have dismantled an alleged Russian organised crime network operating in Phuket, seizing more than 5.4 million baht in cash during coordinated raids linked to online fraud investigations. One Russian suspect was arrested under an outstanding court warrant, while another foreign national was taken into custody for immigration offences as officers continued to investigate suspected links to mule bank accounts and technology-related crime. GeographicReference Get today's headlines by email The operation took place on 8 July as part of a nationwide crackdown directed by the Thai government and the Royal Thai Police against cybercrime, call centre scams, mule accounts and foreign criminal networks. The investigation was led under the authority of Police General Kitrat Phanphet, National Police Chief, together with senior officers from Provincial Police Region 8, the Immigration Bureau, the Tourist Police Bureau and Phuket Provincial Police. The investigation began after Provincial Police Region 8 and Phuket Provincial Police received intelligence from the Anti Online Scam Operation Center (ACSC). Authorities were informed that a group of Russian nationals had been withdrawing large amounts of cash from ATMs across Phuket using funds allegedly linked to mule bank accounts involved in online fraud cases in several parts of Thailand. Police examined CCTV footage, financial transaction records and travel data before obtaining arrest and search warrants from the Phuket Provincial Court. Officers then carried out simultaneous searches at three locations across the province. At the first location in Wichit, Mueang Phuket district, officers arrested 26-year-old Russian national Ilya Kutaisov under a court warrant. Police seized 638,700 baht in cash along with other evidence before transferring him to Wichit Police Station for legal proceedings. At the second property in Chalong, officers found Russian national Igor Stelmak, who is now being investigated for possible links to technology-related crime. Police confiscated 4,594,420 baht in Thai currency together with 6,271 US dollars, bringing the total seized at the property to around 4,800,000 baht. Immigration authorities have also revoked his permission to remain in Thailand and are proceeding under immigration law. GeographicReference A third search in Cherng Talay, Thalang district, failed to locate the intended target. Investigators collected additional evidence and said efforts to trace the individual are continuing. Overall, officers searched three locations, arrested one suspect under a warrant, detained one foreign national for immigration action and seized approximately 5,440,063 baht in cash together with other evidence. Investigators are continuing to examine financial records and possible connections to mule accounts and cybercrime cases across multiple provinces. Police believe additional victims may still be unaware they were targeted by the network or have not yet reported their losses. Authorities said they are working to identify other members of the organisation, including those directing the operation and those who benefited financially. Daily News reported that Phuket Provincial Police said they will continue targeting mule account networks, cash withdrawal operations and transnational organised crime regardless of the nationality of those involved. Members of the public who suspect they have been victims of online fraud or notice suspicious banking activity are encouraged to report it to their nearest police station or contact the AOC hotline on 1441. Picture courtesy of Daily News Newssubscription service Join the discussion? 9 July 2026

A catering business owner has lodged a complaint with Pak Chong Police Station, alleging a Thai-foreign couple failed to pay the remaining 195,000 baht bill for their wedding reception in Nakhon Ratchasima province. Somsak Taemsuay, 39, filed the complaint on July 16 after repeated attempts to obtain payment, according to his account. Police said they intend to summon the couple to discuss the dispute, although no date has been set. Booking and deposit Somsak said a Thai woman identified only as Paphada booked his company on June 9 for a wedding reception held on July 7. The order was for catering for 130 tables, charged at 2,500 baht each, making the total bill 325,000 baht. He said he met Paphada at her home in Ban Rai subdistrict, Thep Sathit district, on June 10 to agree the menu and arrangements for the venue. She subsequently paid a 130,000 baht deposit, he said. Because of the size of the booking, Somsak said his business also supplied drinks free of charge and arranged a live band for the morning wedding ceremony. Caterer says balance was not paid The catering service was completed on the wedding day, and Somsak said his company asked for settlement of the remaining balance afterwards. He alleged that the couple asked to pay the following day, but the 195,000 baht did not arrive. According to Somsak, Paphada later told him that her foreign husband had not provided the dowry he had promised, leaving her unable to pay the outstanding amount. Somsak said the unpaid bill has caused financial pressure for him and his business. Despite making a police complaint, he said he would prefer to resolve the matter through negotiation rather than court action. The complaint remains an allegation, and the report does not identify the foreign husband's nationality or give his response. What foreign residents should note For foreigners planning a wedding or other major event in Thailand, the case underlines the importance of making clear arrangements with suppliers over deposits, final-payment dates and who is responsible for settling the bill. Police have said only that they plan to call the couple in for questioning and discussions over the alleged debt. Pictures courtesy of Facebook/ Khao Pak Chong News Join the discussion? 18 July 2026

The Cabinet approved a further review of visa privileges on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. The draft Ministry of Interior announcements will only take effect 15 days after they are published in the Royal Gazette. Deputy government spokesperson Ploytalay Laksameesangchan said the changes are intended to close security loopholes, curb the misuse of tourist entry for non-tourism activities and apply a "one country, one entitlement" approach. The government said the longer 60-day stay could be used to enter Thailand for illegal activities or purposes inconsistent with tourism. New 30-day, 15-day and Visa on Arrival categories Under the revamped arrangements, 59 countries and territories will receive visa-free entry for tourism stays of up to 30 days. The government said these entitlement have now been extended to six more countries: India, Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta and the Maldives. It said this would mean all 27 European Union member states receive the same entitlement, supporting international relations, negotiations for Schengen visa exemptions for Thai nationals and economic agreements. In considering India, authorities cited a previous fall in Indian visitor numbers, since the changes were first announced, as well as the country's importance to Thailand's economy, trade, investment and international relations. The government noted that Indian tourists stay in Thailand, on average, for only 7.2 days per visit. Mauritius and Seychelles will receive visa-free tourism entry for stays of up to 15 days. Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia will be eligible for Visa on Arrival at designated immigration checkpoints. Visa& Immigration Ploytalay said a total of 65 countries and territories would receive an entitlement under the various revised measures. The review took account of economic and security factors, international relations and reciprocity. Economics What travellers already in Thailand need to know Foreign nationals who entered Thailand before the new announcements take effect will be allowed to stay for the balance of the period originally granted to them. For visitors and expats who regularly use visa-exempt entry for short trips, the main practical change is that the previous 60-day allowance will no longer apply once the rules are in force. Travellers should check the Royal Gazette announcements and their nationality's entitlement before booking, particularly where a stay may exceed 15 or 30 days. TDAC screening to be tightened Security agencies will also improve the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC, system to screen foreign nationals' records and review their travel into and out of the country. Authorities will speed up links between agency databases to assess risks from travellers' points of origin and monitor whether visa privileges are being used as intended. Visa& Immigration "This review is not intended to reduce tourism opportunities, but to adjust the system to make it more appropriate, clear and verifiable," Ploytalay said, adding that the aim was to balance economic stimulus, travel facilitation, international relations and national security. Join the discussion? 15 July 2026

A 16-year-old musician from Phuket has taken a major step towards her ambition of becoming an international artist after receiving four yeses from the judges during her audition on America’s Got Talent (AGT) in the United States. Get today's headlines by email Rattikarn “Praew” Amloy, who performs under the stage name Nene Royal, impressed the judging panel with a performance of Zombie by The Cranberries, combining vocals with guitar. During her audition, she said she had travelled to the competition with her father and described the AGT stage as the biggest audience she had ever performed before. She also revealed that she had taught herself to play the guitar from the age of seven. Nene has built her reputation as a street performer in Phuket, regularly appearing with her band, Ozone, at Naka Night Market. The group performs rock music for both Thai and international visitors, with overseas tourists inspiring them to cover songs by internationally recognised rock bands. According to Phuket Times, the band’s performances attracted a loyal following among foreign visitors, with some tourists reportedly travelling to the market specifically to watch Nene perform live. Before her AGT appearance, however, she was less well known among audiences throughout the rest of Thailand. Picture courtesy of Amarin Nene has already received recognition for her musical talent. In 2023, she finished as first runner-up in the 14th Overdrive Guitar Contest and later became a featured artist for Enya Music. Following news of her AGT success, Thai social media users praised her vocal ability, guitar skills and stage confidence. Speaking after her audition aired, Nene thanked supporters across Thailand for their encouragement. “I would like to thank all the Thai people who have always supported and cheered me on. I never thought that so many Thai people would show interest in me and give me so much encouragement after appearing on AGT. “People shared and liked my video. Thank you so much. Thank you to everyone in Thailand, thank you for your support. “My dream is to become a world-class artist, to tour, and to write songs for everyone to listen to. Thank you for following and supporting me. Thank you all so much.” Amarin reported that the Facebook page Poetry of B*tch also highlighted the support Nene has received from her family, reporting that her father built a rehearsal room at their home in Phuket for her and her bandmates. Her father said became emotional watching his daughter perform on one of the world’s biggest talent show stages and said years of supporting her had been worthwhile. He encouraged both Thai and international audiences to continue supporting her as she progresses to the next round of the competition. Join the discussion? 11 July 2026

Chiang Mai has been named the third-best city in the world in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026, placing the northern Thai city among the highest-rated destinations globally. The result also saw Chiang Mai rank second in Asia, behind Kyoto, Japan, while moving ahead of Bangkok, Siem Reap in Cambodia and Tokyo, Japan. Get today's headlines by email The ranking represents another international recognition for Thailand’s tourism industry. The awards are compiled by Travel + Leisure, a US-based travel magazine, through a global reader survey. This year’s survey received responses from more than 207,000 readers, who submitted over 661,000 votes covering more than 10,088 travel-related businesses and destinations worldwide. The categories included hotels, resorts, cities, islands, national parks, tour operators, safaris, airlines, airports, trains and other travel entities. In the World’s Best Cities category, San Miguel de Allende in Mexico took first place with a score of 93.07, followed by Kyoto, Japan, with 92.02. Chiang Mai achieved a score of 91.88 to secure third place, ahead of Hoi An in Vietnam, Siem Reap in Cambodia and Tokyo in Japan. Travel + Leisure readers highlighted Chiang Mai’s Lanna cultural heritage, historic temples, local cuisine, natural scenery and hospitality as key factors behind its strong ranking. The recognition reflects the city’s continued popularity among international travellers seeking cultural experiences and nature-based tourism. Khaosod reported that the ranking adds to Thailand’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its position as a global tourism destination. Tourism officials and industry stakeholders are expected to use international recognition such as the Travel + Leisure award to support future promotion of Chiang Mai and other Thai destinations. Top 10 World’s Best Cities 2026 1. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico — 93.07 2. Kyoto, Japan — 92.02 3. Chiang Mai, Thailand — 91.88 4. Hoi An, Vietnam — 91.81 5. Oaxaca, Mexico — 91.59 6. Bangkok, Thailand — 91.29 7. Jerusalem, Israel — 91.11 8. Siem Reap, Cambodia — 90.59 9. Mexico City, Mexico — 90.49 10. Tokyo, Japan — 90.44 Chiang Mai will continue to welcome visitors while maintaining its appeal through cultural attractions, traditional experiences and natural landscapes. The Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026 results provide further international exposure for the city as it competes with leading destinations worldwide. Join the discussion? 10 July 2026

The Thai government’s plan to collect a tourism fee of at least 300 baht through airlines has encountered another obstacle after aviation bodies said the proposal is impractical. Industry representatives argue that airlines’ booking and back-office systems are not designed to collect the charge and have instead recommended using the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system, which foreign visitors must complete before entering the country. Get today's headlines by email The Ministry of Tourism and Sports last month asked airlines to act as intermediaries to collect the fee on behalf of the government. Under the National Tourism Policy Act, Thai citizens are exempt from the levy, making it unlawful to charge them. The ministry suggested airlines collect the fee from all passengers before reimbursing Thai travellers, with the government covering the administrative costs. However, Sheldon Hee, Regional Vice-President for Asia-Pacific at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), said the proposal would create unnecessary complications. He noted that airlines generally do not require passengers to provide nationality, passport details or residential addresses when initially booking flights, as only a passenger’s name and destination are typically needed. Mr Hee said the TDAC digital immigration system would provide a more suitable platform because it is already mandatory for foreign visitors entering Thailand. Aviation stakeholders and the Airlines Association of Thailand (AAT) supported this approach during a recent meeting with officials from the Tourism Ministry. The AAT said Thai airlines operate different reservation and back-office systems, while more than 100 foreign airlines also serve Thailand. Embedding the tourism fee into airfares across so many carriers would add significant complexity. The association added that TDAC is managed by the Immigration Bureau and reports directly to the government, making it a more appropriate mechanism than relying on independent airlines. The tourism fee was first proposed in 2020 but has yet to be introduced because of repeated government changes and technical challenges. Most of the revenue is intended to fund insurance for tourists, while the remainder would be used to maintain tourist attractions and improve infrastructure. The Bangkokpost reported that the final amount of the levy will depend largely on the projected cost of accident insurance and treatment at private hospitals. Studies have found that unpaid medical bills left by foreign visitors cost Thai hospitals around 2.5 billion baht each year. Join the discussion? 10 July 2026

Tourist Police have arrested seven foreign men in Bangkok's Khlong Sam Wa district after checks allegedly found four had overstayed their permission to remain and three had no travel or identity records. The operation took place on 14 July 2026 on Pracha Ruam Chai Road, in front of The One Cargo Co Ltd in Sai Kong Din Tai subdistrict. The men - six Nigerians and one Senegalese national - were taken to Min Buri Police Station for legal proceedings. Four allegedly overstayed by hundreds of days Police said the four men accused of overstaying had remained in Thailand beyond their permitted dates by between 782 and 1,052 days. They were named as Senegalese national Christian Tounkara, 33, accused of overstaying by 913 days; Nigerian national Monday Akachukwu Anikpe, 28, by 856 days; Chineze Emmanuel Onyechere, 45, by 1,052 days; and Mazi Ejiofor Edochie, 45, by 782 days. All four were charged with being foreign nationals staying in the Kingdom after their permission had expired. The other three men, all Nigerian nationals, were identified as Emeka Frank Uzoije, 42; Emmanuel Kelechi Ewulu, 33; and Ikechkuwu Prince Umunna, 47. Police said checks found no personal identification documents or records of their entry to Thailand, and charged them with entering and staying in the Kingdom without permission. Checks followed intelligence gathering Tourist Police commissioner Lieutenant General Saksira Pheuk-um said the operation followed government policy and instructions from national police chief Police General Kittirat Phanphet to speed up checks on foreigners living in Thailand unlawfully. Investigators had received information that a group of foreign nationals was staying in Khlong Sam Wa without apparent work or a fixed address. Officers then mounted the operation under the Tourist Police Division 1 command. Colonel Piyapong Ensarn, superintendent of Tourist Police Division 1's Sub-Division 1, said police were instructed to investigate and arrest foreign nationals suspected of breaking the law, including people who might use Thailand as a base for offences. He said the wider focus included offences against property, life and physical safety, as well as romance scams, fraud and exploitation of residents or tourists. Police did not allege that the seven men arrested in this case were involved in such offences. Tourist Police said they would intensify checks of foreign nationals, particularly where officers have grounds to investigate. Foreigners who move address, change visa status or use agents for immigration applications should ensure their records and documents remain in order. Join the discussion? 16 July 2026

Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has resolved to indict six people, including a police colonel, over an alleged scheme to demand 6 million baht in exchange for securing bail for a British national detained on immigration charges. The decision follows an investigation into claims that money was solicited in return for influencing state officials to obtain the release of British national Ritesh Patel. Get today's headlines by email According to the NACC, there are sufficient grounds to prosecute Pol Col Rames Kaewsoongnern, Witthaya Somsrisomsakul and four others for allegedly requesting payments linked to Mr Patel’s release from immigration detention. Investigators concluded the alleged payments were sought under the pretence that senior officials could arrange his bail, but Mr Patel was never released. The case stems from Mr Patel’s arrest by Operational Unit 2 officers on June 27, 2022. He was detained at the Phuket Immigration Office after allegedly entering Thailand using another person’s travel information. Authorities said he later asked Thirawan Khieongam to present his passport, which had already been cancelled and his visa revoked. Mr Patel was transferred the following day to the Immigration Detention Centre in Bangkok. After his transfer, Ms Thirawan sought assistance from a third party in an effort to secure his release on bail. The NACC investigation found that the third party contacted Mr Witthaya on June 29. Claiming to know Pol Col Rames and stating he could arrange Mr Patel’s release, Mr Witthaya allegedly requested an initial payment of 1 million baht, which Ms Thirawan transferred to the bank account of Apirak Thiangtham. Investigators said Mr Witthaya later demanded an additional 5 million baht, claiming that a total of 6 million baht was required to coordinate the bail through Pol Col Rames and immigration officials. Ms Thirawan subsequently transferred the remaining funds into the accounts of Nattanaree Boonma and Thipsuda Insongjai. Despite the payments, Mr Patel at the time, remained in custody. The anti-corruption agency said investigators later traced the money to accounts belonging to Mr Witthaya, Pol Col Rames and the officer’s wife, Booraya Kaewsoongnern. Based on the evidence gathered, the commission resolved that criminal proceedings should be pursued. The Bangkokpost reported that the NACC said there are grounds to charge Mr Witthaya under Section 143 of the Criminal Code and the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption. The case will now proceed through the legal process as prosecutors consider the charges against those named in the investigation. Join the discussion? 10 July 2026

A viral social media post has triggered widespread criticism of operations at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport after foreign passengers were reportedly left waiting between three and four hours at immigration. The post, published on July 11, showed video of immigration queues stretching for what the author claimed was around one kilometre, prompting fresh debate over the airport’s passenger management and ambitions to become a regional aviation hub. Get today's headlines by email The Facebook user sarcastically praised Airports of Thailand (AOT), writing that Suvarnabhumi had achieved the “longest queue in the world” and joking that if Skytrax or Guinness World Records recognised such a category, the airport would win ahead of Changi, Doha and Narita. The author added that they were fortunate to be a Thai citizen because they were able to pass through immigration quickly, while foreign travellers were left waiting for hours. After the post attracted significant attention online, the author updated it with what they described as a more serious explanation of the issues. They rejected claims that long queues were simply the result of stricter immigration screening, arguing that leading international airports maintain high security standards while processing passengers efficiently through modern technology. According to the post, lengthy queues reflected shortcomings in passenger throughput rather than stronger security. Picture courtesy of Manager Online The author also disputed suggestions that responsibility lay solely with the Immigration Bureau. They acknowledged that immigration officers may have been insufficient in number to keep all counters open but argued that AOT had also failed in managing passenger flow and available space. The post claimed queues overflowed into main walkways, blocking access to priority lanes and Thai passport channels, and stated that even Business and First Class passengers could not easily reach fast-track entrances because of congestion. The post further rejected arguments that the delays were unavoidable because several flights arrived during peak periods. The author said airports have access to flight schedules well in advance and should plan staffing levels accordingly to prevent bottlenecks. They argued that professional airport management should anticipate busy periods rather than ask passengers to accept extended waiting times. The Manager Online reported that the criticism concluded by stating that the comments were intended to encourage improvements rather than criticise Thailand itself. The author said experience travelling through other international airports demonstrated that better operational standards were achievable and argued that if Thailand wished to strengthen its position as an aviation hub and attract higher-quality visitors, back-end systems would need to meet international standards. AQOcMTeNSVxeZus9xEuYtUi2rSUv24S71OWd80UQruZbw6uXyFC5fEiTWRjnJmT20n8toiyfEsSVQK35qqN_IxYO3H7jWxrGM8XvehwT4Q.mp4 Join the discussion? 13 July 2026

Foreign visitors arriving at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport are again reportedly facing waits of two to three hours at immigration during some periods, as stricter screening and staff shortages create bottlenecks. Tourism industry sources say the long queues have returned as a major concern at the airport, with the delay affecting travellers' first experience on arrival in Thailand. The problem is most apparent during busy flight periods, when checks can build into lengthy lines. Tougher checks add time at the border One factor is the government's increased scrutiny of suspected Chinese grey-capital groups, transnational criminal networks and the use of special Fast Track services, according to tourism industry sources. The more detailed screening process means immigration officers need longer to process individual passengers. Arrivals whose information is incomplete, or whose documents require further examination, can add to delays which then accumulate during peak periods. Previously, some agent networks offered facilitation services allowing tourists to pass through immigration more quickly, charging several hundred baht per person. Following inspections and tighter controls by relevant agencies, those channels have become more restricted, leaving most passengers to use standard immigration queues. For foreigners living in Thailand, tourists and those arriving to activate or return under a visa, the reported delays mean it may be sensible to allow extra time after landing before booking airport transfers, connecting domestic flights or appointments. Passengers should ensure arrival information and supporting travel documents are complete and readily available. Immigration staffing remains a constraint A source at Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) said the other main issue is a shortage of immigration personnel relative to the continuing rise in international passenger numbers. The airport has expanded its space and increased the number of immigration counters, but staffing at the Immigration Bureau remains insufficient to handle the volume of arriving international passengers, the source said. Tourism operators believe prolonged immigration waits are damaging Thailand's tourism image at a time when the government is seeking to revive the economy through the sector. They have called on the agencies involved to increase staffing, improve screening procedures and introduce technology to ease congestion. A priority for Thailand's tourism gateway Suvarnabhumi is a principal entry point for overseas visitors and returning residents, so delays there can affect holidaymakers, business travellers and expatriates alike. A slow arrival process can also complicate onward travel for passengers heading to other Thai destinations. Industry figures argue that resolving immigration delays is urgent if Thailand is to retain its position as a regional tourism and aviation hub. They say the first impression created at the border may have a lasting effect on the country's image among visitors. Picture courtesy of Manager Online Related story Foreigners-face-4-hour-airport-immigration-queue-nightmare Join the discussion? 17 July 2026

A foreign customer speaking fluent Isan surprised staff at a Korean grilled meat shop in Kalasin after ordering two jumbo sets and asking to pay through the Thai discount scheme using his wife's mobile phone. The moment, recorded on the shop's CCTV at 5.28pm on 14 July, was posted by the owner on Facebook and drew comments from viewers wondering how a foreigner could use the Khon La Khrueng or Thai Chuai Thai Plus benefit. Shop owner Apinya Phunnoina later explained that the entitlement belonged to the man's wife. He used her phone to scan and pay for the order, according to the report. Fluent Isan leaves staff laughing The customer entered the long-established grilled meat shop on Thanon Thinnanon, on the Kalasin-Yang Talat route in Muang district, to buy food to take home. He placed his order in Isan, the Lao-influenced dialect commonly heard across north-eastern Thailand. Apinya said she could not contain her laughter after hearing his accent. In her Facebook caption, the owner said she was already amazed that the foreign customer could speak Isan, before he asked whether the shop accepted the half-price scheme. She described him as both handsome and able to speak Isan. Apinya said the man asked about the available meal sets. She told him a large set cost 250 baht and a jumbo set 320 baht. He chose two jumbo sets. He then asked whether the shop accepted Khon La Khrueng. Staff asked whose benefit he intended to use, and he replied that it belonged to his wife before producing the phone to scan the payment. For foreign residents and visitors, eligibility for government cost-of-living schemes remains separate from simply being able to make a payment at a participating shop. Anyone hoping to use such a programme should check the official conditions and ensure the registered beneficiary is making the transaction in line with the scheme's rules. Pictures courtesy of Amarin

Two foreign men gave an emotional farewell to staff at their favourite restaurant in Pattaya before returning to their home country, after regularly dining there during their stay in Thailand. Get today's headlines by email The moment was shared by TikTok user @sanggg_pbp, who posted a video showing the pair visiting Steakpremier to say goodbye. The post was captioned, “Farewell before going home. @Daniels Knaps #thailand #thaifood.” The video, which included the on-screen text “POV: when Thai food hits,” showed the two men approaching restaurant staff, performing a traditional wai before kneeling and bowing to the floor as a gesture of respect and gratitude. Staff members quickly returned the gesture by kneeling and bowing in response, with some lying flat on the floor while accepting the farewell. The exchange drew widespread attention on social media for its display of mutual respect. Picture courtesy of TikTok: @sanggg_pbp Many Thai and international users commented on the video, with one viewer asking what had prompted such an emotional goodbye. The person who shared the clip explained that the men had become regular customers during their time in Pattaya and wanted to thank the staff before flying home. “They liked eating at this restaurant and came here very often. They were about to fly back to their home country, so they bowed to say goodbye,” the poster replied. Another social media user commented: “They’re so adorable. I’m sure they’ll come back to visit many more times, and maybe even stay longer. No matter how many times I watch this, it warms my heart. Safe travels, and I wish them all the best.” The video continued to attract positive reactions, with many viewers describing the farewell as heartwarming and praising the respectful exchange between the visitors and the restaurant staff. The clip highlighted the strong impression Thai hospitality and cuisine can leave on international visitors. The Thaiger reported there has been no further update from the restaurant or the two men. However, the video continues to circulate online, with many users expressing hope that the pair will return to Thailand in the future. Join the discussion? 13 July 2026

The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has reiterated that cannabis is not freely available in Thailand, stressing that cannabis sales are now subject to stricter controls under the Ministry of Public Health’s Controlled Herbal Products (Cannabis) Notification B.E. 2568 (2025). The agency warned that cannabis flowers may only be sold to members of the public who hold a valid medical prescription issued by an authorised healthcare professional, while illegal exports remain subject to severe penalties. Get today's headlines by email ONCB Deputy Secretary-General and spokesperson Areepak Ngernbumrung said the Ministry of Public Health remains the primary regulator of cannabis, but the ONCB continues to monitor its use, issue public warnings and protect communities, particularly children and young people, from inappropriate cannabis use. The announcement follows tighter government efforts to strengthen oversight of cannabis products and prevent misuse. Under the latest regulations, anyone wishing to study, research, export, sell or commercially process cannabis flowers must first obtain a licence under Section 46 of the Protection and Promotion of Thai Traditional Medicine Knowledge Act. Licensed operators must maintain records of product sources, intended use and stock levels, and report them to the registrar. Cannabis flowers may only be sold or exported if they originate from cultivation sites certified under Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) by the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine. Export licence holders must notify authorities before every commercial shipment. Licensed businesses may only sell cannabis flowers to other licensed operators, except when supplying members of the public who possess a medical prescription issued by an authorised practitioner, including doctors, Thai traditional medicine practitioners, folk healers, pharmacists or dentists. Prescriptions may cover treatment for a maximum of 30 days. The notification also prohibits businesses from selling cannabis for smoking on their premises, except where administered as part of medical treatment by authorised practitioners. Sales through vending machines, online platforms or computer networks are banned, as is all advertising. Cannabis flowers may not be sold in temples or religious venues, registered dormitories, public parks, zoos or amusement parks. Areepak warned that anyone illegally selling, processing or exporting cannabis flowers, including supplying people without a valid prescription, risks prosecution under Section 78 of the Protection and Promotion of Thai Traditional Medicine Knowledge Act B.E. 2542 (1999). Offenders face up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both. She also highlighted penalties for smuggling cannabis out of Thailand without customs clearance or attempting to evade inspection. Offenders face up to 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of four times the value of the goods including duties, or both, with the cannabis confiscated. Since 17 June 2026, the Customs Department has also imposed an additional administrative penalty of 30,000 baht per kilogram of seized cannabis. Amarin reported that the ONCB further reminded travellers that while Thailand permits cannabis use under specific medical and health regulations, many countries still classify cannabis as a serious narcotic. The agency urged travellers to comply with the laws of their destination countries and encouraged the public to report suspected illegal cannabis sales or drug activity through the ONCB’s 24-hour hotline on 1386, with all reports treated confidentially. Picture courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? 12 July 2026

Pattaya City Police have ordered an internal fact-finding inquiry after a group of Kuwaiti tourists alleged they were given questionable receipts after paying cash traffic fines in the resort city. Get today's headlines by email Three officers named in the complaint have been temporarily transferred to the Pattaya City Police operations centre while the investigation proceeds. The order took effect on 15 July 2026, and remains in place until changed. The tourists, aged around 20 to 30, said they had travelled in Pattaya during the past month when uniformed police officers stopped them for traffic offences. They accepted that they had broken traffic rules and did not object to being prosecuted, according to the complaint. Complaint centres on receipts Their concern arose after officers allegedly collected fines in cash and issued receipts. When the tourists later checked the documents, they were reportedly told that they were not receipts issued by a police station. The group also claimed they had been stopped several times and received receipts of a similar kind on each occasion. The inquiry was ordered by Pol Lt Col Kosala Ngamphong, deputy superintendent for investigations at Pattaya City Police, who is acting superintendent of the station. A three-member committee has been appointed to gather evidence and examine the allegations. It is chaired by Pol Lt Col Siriwat Katchamat, deputy superintendent for crime suppression at Pattaya City Police. Pol Lt Col Amonthep Maima, traffic inspector at Pattaya City Police, is a committee member, alongside Pol Capt Ittiporn Tangchuthaveesap, deputy inspector for investigations, who will serve as member and secretary. Officers moved during investigation The three officers named in the allegations have been assigned temporarily to the Pattaya City Police operations centre, with Pol Lt Col Siriwat responsible for supervising their duties. Police said the transfers were intended to ensure a transparent inquiry and prevent any effect on normal official work. If the investigation finds wrongdoing, those involved will face both disciplinary action and criminal proceedings, police said. For foreigners driving or riding in Pattaya, the complaint does not change the requirement to comply with Thai traffic laws or pay valid penalties. However, visitors who are fined may wish to retain all paperwork and, if they have doubts about a receipt, seek clarification from the relevant police station rather than relying solely on a document handed over at the roadside. Related story Kuwaiti-tourists-allege-cash-fine-racket-in-Pattaya Join the discussion? 15 July 2026

American fitness influencer Connor Murphy allegedly injected himself with gold, he had melted down, in the weeks before he drowned while fleeing police in Thailand, according to friends who said his behaviour had become increasingly erratic. Murphy, 32, died on July 7 after jumping into a lake in Samut Prakan while officers responded to complaints from residents. Get today's headlines by email Friends claimed Murphy had become obsessed with the idea that gold could give him extraordinary abilities. Australian influencer Androgenic, whose real name is Ronan, said Murphy believed injecting gold would help him “tap into higher levels of consciousness” and alleged he had been melting down gold jewellery before injecting it. Fellow fitness influencer Chris Elkins also told The Sun that Murphy later switched to intravenous infusions of gold, believing they gave him “superpowers”. According to Elkins, Murphy’s mental health had deteriorated over several years following a 40-day water-only fast in 2020. He said Murphy lost between 50 and 60 pounds during the challenge despite already being in peak physical condition. Elkins also claimed Murphy later experimented with psychedelics, became increasingly isolated from friends and insisted his unusual online behaviour was merely an act. The US Food and Drug Administration has warned there are significant risks and no proven health benefits from injecting gold or silver outside specific medical treatments using carefully controlled doses. Friends described Murphy’s alleged gold injections as dangerous and said they wished they had been able to persuade him to seek professional help. Murphy, a former bodybuilding and prank video star with millions of followers, was one of the early influencers linked to the looksmaxxing movement, which promotes improving physical appearance, sometimes through extreme methods. Before his death, police responding to his rented home in Bang Phli found black and yellow paint smeared across walls, furniture and appliances. Authorities also recovered two unused syringes from his car. Police said Murphy fled when officers arrived following reports of screaming at the property. He jumped into a nearby lake, swam for several minutes and eventually disappeared beneath the surface. Divers later recovered his body around 20 metres from the shore. Authorities have not yet released an official cause of death, and his remains have undergone a post-mortem examination at a hospital in Bangkok, with the final report pending. The Dun reported that friends also claimed Murphy had recently spoken about faking his own death as part of a documentary project, leading some to initially doubt reports that he had died. Police said neighbours had heard him praying and shouting before officers arrived, while officers reported he became increasingly agitated before entering the lake. Picture courtesy of The Sun Related story American-dies-after-jumping-into-Bang-Phli-lake Join the discussion? 14 July 2026

The Civil Court has ordered Kasikornbank (KBank) to pay 1 million baht in compensation after ruling that the bank failed to detect suspicious late-night transactions linked to a scam that cost Thai-British actress Charlotte Austin 4 million baht in 2024. Get today's headlines by email The judgment, delivered on Wednesday, relates to a lawsuit filed by Miss Charlotte Co Ltd, the company that manages the Phuket-born actress’s assets and financial interests. The court found that while the bank could not have identified the first transfer as suspicious, it should have recognised two consecutive transfers made after midnight as unusual and implemented stronger safeguards. Charlotte Austin, then aged 25 and the fifth runner-up in Miss Grand Thailand 2022, became one of Thailand’s first high-profile victims of organised scam gangs. On 7 December 2024, she received a video call from a man claiming to be an official from the Department of Special Investigation, who falsely accused her of involvement in money laundering connected to the Stark Corporation scandal. The scammer instructed her to transfer 4 million baht so authorities could verify her innocence. While being kept on a continuous video call, she completed three transfers through the KBank mobile banking application, including two after midnight. In May last year, the Criminal Court sentenced four people involved in the scam to prison terms ranging from six to seven years. Miss Charlotte Co Ltd sought 4 million baht in damages, arguing that KBank had breached its obligations under its deposit agreement by failing to identify clearly unusual, high-risk transactions or issue warnings that could have prevented the losses. Kasikornbank argued that its fraud prevention and transaction monitoring systems met industry standards and that the transfers were processed according to its normal detection criteria. The court ruled that the initial 2 million baht transfer, made at 5pm, appeared to be a normal transaction and could not reasonably have been identified as fraudulent. However, it found that the second and third transfers, totalling 2 million baht and made consecutively after midnight, should have triggered stronger monitoring and intervention by the bank. The court also concluded that Charlotte Austin had been negligent by transferring money to the scammers, and ruled that responsibility for the losses should be shared equally between the parties. As a result, KBank was ordered to pay 1 million baht in compensation, together with annual interest of 5% from 8 December 2024, reimburse court fees proportionate to the successful claim, and pay 20,000 baht in legal costs. Manager Online reported that Lawyer Nitithorn “Lawyer James” Kaewto said the ruling establishes an important precedent for businesses in the entertainment industry and members of the public seeking to hold financial institutions accountable for their handling of suspicious transactions, particularly those occurring late at night. The judgment is also consistent with the amended emergency decree introduced in April 2025, which requires responsibility for financial fraud losses to be shared according to each party’s level of negligence. Join the discussion? 12 July 2026

Phuket marine authorities have started a crackdown on illegal jet ski operations, fining 23 operators on its first day as part of a drive to improve tourist safety and confidence. The July 15 operation followed complaints about jet ski services and enforcement at tourist sites received by Deputy Transport Minister Sanphet Bunyamanee during an inspection visit to Phuket. Sanphet instructed the Phuket Regional Marine Office to urgently bring operators under control, increase inspections and enforce the law more strictly. He said the aim was to raise safety standards and improve tourists' confidence in marine services. Maximum fines for unlicensed vessels Officers from the Phuket Regional Marine Office and Marine Police carried out inspections both ashore and at sea on July 15, 2026. They found 23 offenders operating vessels without the required boat-use licences, which is an offence under Section 9 of the Navigation in Thai Waters Act. Each offender received the maximum administrative fine of 10,000 baht. The authorities have described the action as the start of a wider effort to organise and regulate Phuket's jet ski sector. Inspections will continue and are due to be extended to other major tourism areas, according to Sanphet. What it means for visitors and residents Jet skis remain a common sight at Phuket beaches, particularly in busy tourist zones. For foreign visitors and expats using rental services, the campaign is intended to target operators rather than customers, but it should place greater emphasis on properly licensed vessels and compliance with marine rules. The government says the wider campaign is designed to improve safety, reduce the exploitation of tourists and reinforce Thailand's international reputation for marine tourism. Sanphet said regulation of jet ski services would combine higher service standards with firm law enforcement. The Phuket operation, he added, was only the beginning. Pictures courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? 17 July 2026

A Chiang Mai karaoke venue has refunded almost 150,000 baht to two British nationals after they complained to police about a series of charges following a night out. Get today's headlines by email The venue's owner agreed to return the full amount after online criticism, according to the latest report. The business had maintained that the men were charged for services actually used and at its stated rates. The complaint was made by the wife of one of the men and their lawyer. Police at Chiang Mai City Police Station arranged further questioning and talks between the parties shortly after midnight on 13 July 2026, before the refund was made. How the disputed bill arose The case dates back to 28 June, when a British man living with his wife in Hang Dong district took a British friend for food and drinks in the Nimmanhemin area. They later went to a karaoke venue at Chiang Mai's old city moat. Picture courtesy of Manager Online The wife said both men were heavily intoxicated. She said they initially used the venue and paid less than 1,000 baht, but staff encouraged them to stay when they tried to leave. According to her account, her husband threatened he would call police before they were finally able to leave. The pair then took a tuk-tuk to drop the friend at his hotel, with the driver meant to take her husband home to Hang Dong. She alleged, however, that the driver took him back to the same karaoke venue while he was so drunk he was barely conscious. The following day, the couple found several charges of more than 120,000 baht on the husband's credit card and about 26,000 baht on another account belonging to his wife. They said financial institutions had indicated there were several transactions within a short period. Some transactions reportedly involved some transfers to a PromptPay account held in an individual's name rather than the venue's name. Venue disputes the allegation The karaoke business told investigators that the two tourists had used its services and invited a large number of female staff to drink at their table. It said the charge was 700 baht per person per hour, over around four to five hours. The complainants questioned why multiple charges of differing amounts had been made rather than one normal payment. They also raised concerns that the husband's card, which they said had a 50,000-baht limit, was charged above that amount, and that the wife's card was also used. They have asked police to examine the tuk-tuk driver's role, citing mobile phone route data which they said showed the vehicle travelling around several parts of the city before returning to the karaoke venue. Investigators are still gathering statements, banking records and other evidence to determine whether legal action is warranted. For foreign residents and visitors, the case underlines the importance of checking card transactions promptly after a night out, particularly where alcohol is involved. The report also said members of the public want police and local authorities to check whether karaoke venues have the required operating licences, amid concern that inflated prices could damage Chiang Mai's reputation. Join the discussion? 15 July 2026

Two foreign tourists have been fined after being caught spray-painting a school fence and public property in Chiang Mai, with police saying the pair also agreed to pay compensation for the damage. The arrests followed a report from a member of the public, who alerted officers after seeing two men using spray paint on the fence of a school in central Chiang Mai during the early hours of July 11. Get today's headlines by email Police from Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station responded to the report at about 12.40am. Officers found the two men actively spray-painting the school fence and ordered them to stop before taking them into custody. The suspects were identified as 32-year-old British national Mr Elliot and 27-year-old New Zealand national Mr Keegan. They were charged under Thailand’s Cleanliness and Orderliness Act B.E. 2535 (1992), as amended, which prohibits scratching, writing, spray-painting or otherwise marking walls, roads, trees, buildings adjoining roads and other public property. Investigators later imposed fines of 3,000 baht on each man through a settlement process. In addition to the fines, both tourists agreed to compensate the affected school for the damage, paying 4,000 baht. According to Chiang Mai Provincial Police, the pair apologised for their actions, explaining that they had acted out of high spirits and promising not to repeat the behaviour. Police said both men accepted responsibility for the damage and agreed to cover the cost of repairs. The operation involved officers led by Pol Col Pratchaya Thisala, superintendent of Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station, together with Pol Lt Col Tattavee Danphitaktrakul, deputy superintendent for prevention and suppression, and Pol Lt Col Wisanu Nuanmusid, inspector for prevention and suppression. Patrol officers led by Pol Capt Chatchawan Tanta responded to the public report and made the arrests at the scene. The case highlights continued enforcement of laws protecting public property and maintaining cleanliness in public areas. Police have encouraged residents and visitors to report similar offences, with the latest arrests resulting directly from information provided by a concerned citizen. No further charges or legal proceedings have been announced beyond the fines and compensation already imposed. The case has been concluded through the legal settlement process, with both tourists accepting responsibility for their actions. Pictures courtesy of ตำรวจภูธรจังหวัดเชียงใหม่ Join the discussion? 13 July 2026

A German man wanted under an Interpol Red Notice for alleged child sexual abuse offences has been arrested in Buriram province after allegedly hiding in Thailand for several years. Thai immigration police said he is now being prepared for extradition to Germany to face legal proceedings. Get today's headlines by email The arrest was announced on 11 July 2026 by Major General Pairat Phukcharoen, Commander of Immigration Division 4, as part of a nationwide operation targeting transnational crime under the Immigration Bureau’s Zero Tolerance policy and proactive measures introduced by the Royal Thai Police. The operation is aimed at preventing foreign nationals considered a threat to public safety from using Thailand as a refuge. Police Colonel Manuwat Kosanan, Deputy Commander and spokesperson for Immigration Division 4, said German authorities urgently requested assistance in locating the suspect, who was wanted under an Interpol Red Notice after repeatedly evading court appearances before fleeing to Thailand. Authorities identified the suspect only by the initials B.K. They said German investigators accuse him of repeatedly sexually abusing his 10-year-old Thai stepson after the child’s Thai mother relocated to Germany with him. Police described the suspect as a high-priority fugitive wanted in connection with serious offences involving the repeated sexual abuse of a child over several years. Immigration investigators later established that the suspect was hiding in Lak Khet subdistrict, Mueang Buriram district, Buriram province. Major General Pairat ordered Police Colonel Chayut Nilprasert, head of the Immigration Division 4 Investigation Unit, to lead a team to locate and arrest him. Officers said the operation was difficult because the suspect was aware he was being sought. Investigators said he had switched off his mobile phone, avoided using technology and social media, and rarely opened the door to visitors. Once officers confirmed his location, they disguised themselves as local village officials carrying out a routine inspection of the property. After the suspect opened the door, officers arrested him, presented the Interpol Red Notice and served an order revoking his permission to remain in Thailand. Major General Pairat said the arrest reflected close cooperation between Thailand and Germany in combating transnational crime, particularly offences involving children and human trafficking. He added that Thailand would not serve as a safe haven for foreign criminals attempting to evade justice. The Daily News reported that the suspect is expected to be extradited to Germany to face criminal proceedings. Thai authorities also confirmed that he will be placed on the country’s immigration blacklist, preventing him from returning to Thailand in the future. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? 12 July 2026

A South African man has been arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport after Thai customs officers seized 17.53 kilogrammes of heroin concealed inside food and supplement packaging during a transit journey to Madagascar. The drugs, with an estimated value of 7.3 million baht, were discovered as part of intensified efforts to prevent Thailand being used as a transit hub for international drug trafficking. Get today's headlines by email Customs Department Director-General Phanthong Loykulnan said the operation followed a government policy led by Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Dr Ekniti Nitithanprapas, who have made drug prevention and suppression a national priority. The policy includes stricter enforcement measures to stop transnational trafficking networks from using Thailand as a transit country. As part of the enhanced strategy, the Customs Department has strengthened inspections of passengers and baggage at airports, border checkpoints and postal facilities across the country. On 9 July 2026, officers from the Customs Investigation and Suppression Division, working with the Airport Interdiction Task Force (AITF), identified a high-risk passenger through intelligence analysis. The traveller had arrived from Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, transited through Suvarnabhumi Airport, and was due to continue to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia before reaching Ivato International Airport in Madagascar. The operation was divided into two teams. One team examined the passenger’s checked baggage at the Transfer Baggage Terminal after X-ray images revealed suspicious contents, while a second team located the passenger and escorted him, together with his luggage, for a detailed inspection before boarding his onward flight. Officers found heroin hidden inside packets of coffee, green tea and several brands of dietary supplements. Chemical testing using ONCB051 Marquis Reagent produced a purple colour, confirming the substance was Category 1 heroin. Authorities seized a total of 17.53 kilogrammes, including packaging. The suspect was taken into custody and handed to investigators for legal proceedings. Authorities said the alleged offence involved importing a Category 1 narcotic into Thailand, in violation of the Customs Act B.E. 2560 and the Narcotics Code. Investigators are also expanding their inquiry to identify other members of the trafficking network in Thailand and overseas. AEC10News reported that Phanthong said the arrest demonstrated the effectiveness of the Customs Department’s risk analysis and close cooperation between agencies in disrupting international drug trafficking. He added that the department remained committed to preventing Thailand from being used as a transit route and to protecting society from the threat of illegal drugs. Pictures courtesy of AEC10News Join the discussion? 11 July 2026

A People’s Party (PP) MP has accused the government of failing to properly regulate cannabis following its decriminalisation, arguing that widespread illegal exports expose major weaknesses in Thailand’s oversight system. Get today's headlines by email Speaking during a House session on 9 July, PP Bangkok MP Bhuntin Noumjerm criticised Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who, as public health minister, led the 2022 policy to decriminalise cannabis and reclassify it as an economic crop. He said Thailand still lacks comprehensive legislation governing the cultivation, sale, use and advertising of cannabis, leaving significant regulatory gaps. Bhuntin cited more than 3,000 illegal cannabis export cases involving over 30,000kg seized during the past nine months. He argued these figures reflected a policy failure rather than isolated criminal activity by smugglers. The opposition MP questioned how the prime minister would account to parliament for what he described as failures arising from a policy he had championed. He also asked whether authorities could trace seized cannabis to its source, identify those profiting from the trade, or operate a central database linking farms, retailers, inventories, transport and export checkpoints. Bhuntin said that without accurate information on how much cannabis is being cultivated, held in stock, consumed domestically and exported, the government could not claim the situation was under control. He stressed that he was not accusing the prime minister, any political party or any individual of involvement in cannabis smuggling. Instead, he said lawmakers had a responsibility to question why a policy originally promoted to support an economic crop and herbal medicine had become a growing burden for customs officials and law enforcement agencies. Responding on behalf of the government, Justice Minister Pol Lt Gen Rutthapon Naowarat said the Office of the Narcotics Control Board had stepped up enforcement efforts. He said authorities had seized 5,119kg of cannabis during the past three months as part of the intensified crackdown. The Bangkokpost reported that the parliamentary debate highlights continuing political scrutiny of Thailand’s cannabis policy nearly four years after decriminalisation. Questions over regulation, enforcement and oversight are expected to remain under discussion as the government faces calls to strengthen the legal framework governing the cannabis industry. Join the discussion? 11 July 2026

Thailand’s tourism sector continues to feel the impact of a sharp decline in Chinese visitors, despite China regaining its position as the country’s largest source market in 2026. Between 1 January and 4 July 2026, Thailand welcomed 16,210,890 foreign visitors, down 3.11 percent year on year, generating 782.57 billion baht in tourism revenue, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Get today's headlines by email China accounted for 2,654,728 arrivals during the period, ahead of Malaysia with 2,109,956, followed by India with 1,239,023, Russia with 1,022,483 and South Korea with 596,673. In one recent summer week, Thailand received 83,492 Chinese visitors compared with 78,306 Malaysians, highlighting how closely the two markets now compare despite China’s population of 1.4 billion and Malaysia’s 35 million. The shift follows a difficult year for Thailand’s tourism industry in 2025. Chinese arrivals fell from around 6.73 million in 2024 to approximately 4.47 million, a decline of about 34 percent. Total international arrivals also dropped 7.23 percent to 32.97 million, marking Thailand’s first annual decline outside the pandemic years. As China weakened, Malaysia became Thailand’s largest source market for 2025 with around 4.52 million visitors. Malaysia’s strong performance is supported by its shared land border with Thailand, extensive road and air links, and regular short-break, shopping and medical travel. However, Malaysian visitors stay for fewer than five days on average, compared with more than nine days for the average international visitor, resulting in lower spending per traveller despite higher visitor volumes. Malaysia has also emerged as Thailand’s strongest regional tourism competitor. The country recorded 42.2 million foreign arrivals in 2025, surpassing Thailand’s 32.97 million to become Southeast Asia’s most-visited destination. At the same time, Malaysia is targeting seven million Chinese visitors in 2026 through visa-free entry, expanded flights to smaller Chinese cities and marketing campaigns on Douyin, Weibo and RedNote. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports expects arrivals to increase through mid-July, supported by school holidays in China and Europe. Officials also pointed to stronger demand from short-haul markets including China and Hong Kong, alongside long-haul visitors from France, Germany and the Netherlands. The Thaiger reported that Thailand’s tourism industry remains cautious about the pace of recovery. Tourism operators have reduced their 2026 forecast for Chinese arrivals from nine million to seven million, citing safety concerns linked to scam networks and rising travel costs. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has also revised its overall forecast for 2026 to between 30 million and 34 million international arrivals. Join the discussion? 11 July 2026

The mother of Australian murder suspect Simon Carman initially believed widely shared footage of her son’s arrest in Thailand had been created using artificial intelligence as part of an online scam, before he confirmed the allegations against him were real. Get today's headlines by email Wendy Carman, 68, reportedly sent a message to her son after seeing videos of his arrest at Bangkok airport, asking whether the family was being targeted by scammers. According to police sources cited by the Daily Mail, she believed the footage was fake because Carman had been living in Thailand. Carman, 45, had already been arrested over the death of 17-year-old Tunchanok Donhomla, whose body was found inside a suitcase abandoned beside railway tracks near Pattaya. CCTV allegedly showed Carman riding a scooter with the suitcase strapped to the back before police detained him at Bangkok airport while he was preparing to board a Jetstar flight to Perth. Police said Carman claimed he was returning to Australia to collect a replacement bank card after losing his original card and intended to return to Thailand within days. After his passport, luggage and mobile phone were seized, officers briefly allowed him to use his phone once it was no longer required as evidence. According to police sources, reading his mother’s message caused Carman to become visibly emotional. One source said he broke down after saying, “Even my mum’s heard about it,” before replying that everything she had seen was true and that he probably would not see his family for a long time. Carman appeared in court, where he was denied bail after a judge ruled he posed a flight risk. He was remanded in custody for 84 days, the maximum period investigators can request before filing an indictment, and transferred to Pattaya Remand Prison, where he is being held in the hospital wing with five other inmates. Police said Carman has cooperated with investigators but has not requested visits, phone calls or legal representation. Australian consular officials remain in contact with both Carman and Thai authorities but have not visited him in person. Detectives allege Carman placed the teenager’s body inside a 74cm suitcase, left it in his bathroom overnight, then transported it by motorbike to railway tracks near Pattaya’s floating market the following evening. He faces either the death penalty or life imprisonment if convicted, while Tunchanok’s father, Thongchai Donhomla, has rejected any financial settlement, saying he wants the legal process to take its course. Related stories Teens-body-in-suitcase-as-Aussie-carried-on-police-say Aussie-murder-suspect-faces-Thai-compensation-talks Australian-arrested-at-Bangkok-airport-over-Pattaya-murder Join the discussion? 9 July 2026

Thailand has emerged as the main source of cannabis being smuggled into the UK, according to a BBC investigation that found organised crime groups are exploiting the country’s relaxed cultivation laws to supply the British black market. The National Crime Agency (NCA) said four out of five cannabis seizures at UK airports now originate from Thailand, with traffickers making substantial profits despite many drug couriers being arrested. Get today's headlines by email The investigation found that cannabis grown in Thailand is being packaged and marketed as premium “Cali weed”, imitating high-potency strains associated with licensed dispensaries in California. British traffickers are reportedly using Thai-grown cannabis because production costs are significantly lower while the product can still be sold in the UK at premium prices. One British dealer, identified only as “Zee”, told the BBC he operates cannabis farms in Thailand using Vietnamese workers and smuggles the drug into Manchester, Liverpool and parts of Yorkshire. He claimed it costs him about GBP350 to produce one kilogram of cannabis, while UK buyers pay up to GBP3,500 per kilogram. According to Zee, couriers are recruited with promises of holidays, cash and entertainment before being asked to carry around 20kg of cannabis in each suitcase on return flights to Britain. He claimed that even if nine out of ten couriers are caught, the operation remains profitable. The NCA’s threat lead for border vulnerabilities, Paul Pantry, said such profit margins appeared realistic and described the organised crime groups behind the trade as “brazen and ruthless”. Home Office figures obtained by the BBC show Border Force officers seized more than 167,000kg of herbal cannabis during the past year, with an estimated street value exceeding GBP2 billion. The total represented a 52% increase from 2024 and included 28 tonnes carried by around 800 couriers arrested by the NCA. The investigation said traffickers are also using postal deliveries and commercial shipping to move cannabis into the UK after increased airport security made air smuggling more difficult. Cannabis is then repackaged into glossy branded packets bearing names such as Gelato, Cali Cookies and Runtz before being sold through social media platforms and encrypted messaging apps. Thailand legalised cannabis in 2022, leading to rapid growth in cultivation and retail sales. Authorities later introduced measures restricting cannabis use to medical purposes and requiring prescriptions, while banning recreational use. However, the BBC reported that British criminal networks continue to exploit production in Thailand by operating outside the licensed system. Health experts have also expressed concern over the increasing strength of cannabis reaching UK consumers. Psychiatrist Dr Marta di Forti, who led the UK’s largest study on cannabis and psychosis, warned that products containing THC levels above 20%, and in some concentrates up to 90%, are linked to an increased risk of serious mental health problems, including psychosis. The BBC reported that the UK government described the BBC’s findings as concerning and said it was continuing to work closely with police forces and overseas partners to prevent illegal drugs reaching Britain. Pictures courtesy of BBC Join the discussion? 9 July 2026

A Canadian man, believed to be about 40 years old, was arrested after allegedly stealing an emergency from Krabi Hospital and driving it through Krabi town before being tracked down in the early hours of 8 July. Get today's headlines by email Police from Mueang Krabi Police Station were alerted at about 2.00am after hospital staff reported that a foreign man had driven away in one of the hospital’s emergency vehicles. Officers joined hospital personnel in searching for the vehicle while staff used the vehicle’s GPS tracking system to monitor its location. The GPS signal showed the vehicle travelling along Naphacharat Road within Krabi municipality. Police and hospital staff followed the signal and eventually found the van abandoned in a side street off Naphacharat Road. The driver’s door had been damaged after the suspect reportedly kicked it before abandoning the vehicle. Officers then spotted the man running towards a hotel in the same area and pursued him on foot before taking him into custody. Witnesses and officials said the suspect continued shouting and behaving erratically after being detained. Authorities said he appeared to be either intoxicated or suffering from a mental health condition, although this had not been confirmed. While officers waited for a patrol vehicle to transport him, the man allegedly tried to escape again. Local residents and officials chased after him through the street before members of the public restrained him, reportedly assaulting him before police regained control of the situation. A patrol vehicle later transported the suspect to investigators at Mueang Krabi Police Station, where legal proceedings are under way. Hospital officials said they were initially unsure why the man had entered Krabi Hospital before the theft. They later learned from emergency department staff that he had driven away in the emergency vehicle. Pictures courtesy of Amarin The hospital explained that emergency vehicle keys are routinely left in the ignition so ambulances are ready for immediate deployment when urgent medical calls are received. After confirming the vehicle’s location through the GPS system, staff coordinated with police to recover it. Amarin reported that authorities have not released the man’s identity or confirmed what charges he will face. Police are expected to continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the theft and the suspect’s condition at the time of the incident. Join the discussion? 8 July 2026

Patong police have detained an Australian man after officers saw him skateboarding on a public road in Phuket town. The man, whose name was not released, was apprehended and Police cited safety concerns and local traffic laws after spotting him using the road with his skateboard. Taken to investigation unit Phuket Tourist Police told Phuket Express that the Australian was taken into custody along with his skateboard and escorted to the investigation unit for legal proceedings. Authorities said the matter would be dealt with under Thai law. The report did not specify the particular charge or any potential penalty. The case follows a reminder from local officials that skateboarding and similar recreational activities should be limited to designated areas rather than public roads. Officials said road-use violations can endanger both tourists and other people in the community, particularly in busy areas such as Patong where traffic, pedestrians, motorcycles and tour vehicles often share limited space. Reminder for visitors and residents For foreigners visiting or living in Thailand, the incident is a practical warning that activities considered harmless or routine elsewhere may draw police attention when carried out on public roads. Holidaymakers and expats using skateboards, scooters, bicycles or other recreational equipment should be particularly cautious in tourist centres, where enforcement can be swift if officers believe road safety rules have been breached. Patong's streets can be congested throughout the day and evening, while the area's nightlife and high pedestrian numbers can add further risks after dark. Visitors should use officially designated spaces where available and avoid treating roads as recreation areas. The authorities' message was directed at visitors generally: recreational activity must not interfere with traffic or create a danger to road users and pedestrians. No further details about the Australian man's case, including the outcome of the legal proceedings, were released. 8407471088241598470.mp4 Video courtesy of Phuketinsta Join the discussion? 18 July 2026

A British-born Buddhist monk has become the first person born overseas to receive Thailand's senior ecclesiastical rank of Somdet Phra Ratchakhana. Get today's headlines by email His Majesty the King elevated Ajahn Jayasaro, now known by the title Somdet Phra Maha Phatcharayanamuni, alongside seven other senior monks in a royal command published by the Royal Gazette on Tuesday, July 14. The eight monks were recognised for their virtue and major service to Buddhism. For foreigners living in Thailand, the appointment is a notable recognition of the long-standing international presence within the country's Buddhist monastic tradition. From the Isle of Wight to Thai forest monasteries Ajahn Jayasaro was born Shaun Michael Chiverton on January 7, 1958, on the Isle of Wight in England. His interest in truth and the meaning of life led him to travel through several countries before he encountered Buddhist teachings and arrived in Thailand in 1978. He became a disciple of Phra Bodhinyanathera, better known as Luang Por Chah Subhaddo of Wat Nong Pah Pong in Ubon Ratchathani. Luang Por Chah was a leading Thai Forest Tradition meditation master and helped establish foundations for spreading Buddhism among foreigners. In 1980, Ajahn Jayasaro was ordained first as a novice and then as a monk, with Luang Por Chah as his preceptor. He continued his Dhamma studies and forest meditation practice. Between 1997 and 2002, he served as abbot of Wat Pah Nanachat in Warin Chamrap district, Ubon Ratchathani. The monastery remains an important centre for foreign monks studying and practising in Luang Por Chah's lineage. Royal recognition after decades in Thailand Ajahn Jayasaro received special royal permission to become a naturalised Thai citizen in 2020. In 2024, he was raised to deputy Somdet Phra Ratchakhana, under the title Phra Phrom Phatcharayanamuni. His latest elevation makes him the first overseas-born monk to reach the Somdet Phra Ratchakhana rank in Thailand. He currently lives at Ban Rai Thawsi Monastic Residence in Nakhon Ratchasima province. The other monks elevated by the King were Phra Phrom Wachiramongkhon, now Somdet Phra Yannawachiramongkhon; Phra Phrom Wachirathibodi, now Somdet Phra Maha Wachirathibodi; Phra Phrom Wachiramuni, now Somdet Phra Sutthatsana Wachiramuni; and Phra Phrom Wachirakon, now Somdet Phra Phuttha Wachirakon. Also elevated were Phra Phrom Dilok, now Somdet Phra Maha Wachirakhun Dilok; Phra Phrom Moli, now Somdet Phra Wachirarattanamoli; and Phra Phrom Sitthi, now Somdet Phra Wachirasitthathachan. A bridge for Thai and international Buddhists Somdet Phra Maha Phatcharayanamuni has given Dhamma talks, led meditation training and produced written works intended to make Buddhist teaching accessible to Thais and foreigners. His best-known work, "Uppalamani", compiles the life and spiritual practice of Luang Por Chah. For expatriates and visitors interested in meditation or the Thai Forest Tradition, his career also highlights the established links between Thailand's monasteries and international Buddhist communities. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? 15 July 2026

Thailand's Cabinet on 14 July approved a draft Prime Minister's Office regulation establishing formal procedures for deporting foreigners from the country. Get today's headlines by email The proposed rules are intended to speed up the removal of foreign nationals who have entered or remained in Thailand illegally, broken foreign-worker or foreign-business laws, or committed specified criminal offences. Government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek said the move follows a Cabinet meeting on 16 June 2026, when Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt was assigned to coordinate relevant agencies on changes to immigration-related laws, regulations and rules. The aim was to make the process of returning foreign offenders and people who entered Thailand unlawfully quicker. Six grounds for deportation The draft regulation, proposed by Pakorn, identifies six categories in which a foreigner may be deported when necessary for public order and public morality. They are illegal entry into or residence in Thailand; working unlawfully under foreign-worker legislation; and conducting business unlawfully under foreign-business legislation. The other grounds are forging official documents or using forged official documents; committing an offence carrying a prison term of three years or more; and acting as a principal, instigator or supporter in any of the first five categories. The government said Thailand currently has no formal administrative regulation specifically governing deportation procedures, despite the need for close cooperation between state agencies. The new framework is intended to make administration of deportations faster and more effective. For foreigners living in or visiting Thailand, the proposal reinforces the importance of keeping immigration permission, work authorisation and business arrangements in order. It is aimed at illegal entry, unlawful work or business activity, document fraud and serious criminal matters, rather than setting out new conditions for ordinary tourists, retirees or other legally resident foreigners. Prison releases and return arrangements Under the draft, the director-general of the Department of Corrections must notify the permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry, or a delegated official, of a foreign prisoner's name, nationality, case file and relevant evidence or information before that person is released from prison. The permanent secretary, or delegate, must then report to the interior minister for consideration of a deportation order without delay. The Interior Ministry would be responsible for returning a person subject to deportation to their country of nationality. Where nationality is uncertain, the person would be sent to the country where they said they last lived before entering Thailand. The regulation also covers cases in which another country where the person has no nationality, or an international organisation, makes a request through diplomatic channels. Such a request must state that the requesting party will accept all costs of caring for the deportee before transfer and the costs of removal, and the person facing deportation must give written consent. Picture courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? 15 July 2026

Thai authorities have approved a proposal to blacklist and revoke the visa of a 56-year-old Lithuanian man living on Koh Pha Ngan after concluding that his repeated criminal cases and alleged behaviour pose a risk to public safety. Get today's headlines by email The decision was made on July 9 during the sixth 2026 meeting of the Koh Pha Ngan committee responsible for reviewing the conduct of foreign nationals residing in the kingdom. The committee, chaired by Koh Pha Ngan District Chief Paisit Thongjem, unanimously agreed to recommend the blacklisting and visa revocation of Mr Edvinas, a Lithuanian national. The move follows coordinated action led by Acting Provincial Police Region 8 Commissioner Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomjit, Immigration Division 6 Commander Major General Chutharet Yingyongdamrongsakul, Surat Thani Provincial Police Commander Major General Suwat Suksri, and Surat Thani Governor Jumphot Wannachatsiri. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to monitor tourists and foreign residents who are suspected of breaking Thai law in Koh Pha Ngan district. According to authorities, Mr Edvinas is believed to be a person who poses a threat to society or could endanger public order and safety. Officials said complaints had resulted in two criminal cases against him. The charges include trespassing, theft from a dwelling, criminal damage, and theft from a dwelling at night. Police records also include two incident reports alleging threatening behaviour, assault and causing a public nuisance. Authorities said these reports formed part of the committee’s consideration when deciding whether to recommend immigration action. Initial background checks found that Mr Edvinas has lived on Koh Pha Ngan for around 10 years. Officials described him as displaying aggressive behaviour, intimidating others, speaking incoherently and repeatedly appearing naked in public, causing disturbance to local residents and tourists. Authorities said he has previously faced legal action on several occasions but had not changed his behaviour. Village leaders and other local officials therefore concluded that he should be regarded as a threat to society. Representatives from Koh Pha Ngan Police Station, Surat Thani Immigration, the district administration, Tourist Police, the municipality, village heads and community leaders all supported the recommendation to place Mr Edvinas on an immigration blacklist and revoke his visa. Manager online reported that the recommendation will now be processed by Immigration Division 6 under its legal authority to determine whether Mr Edvinas’s visa should be formally revoked and he should be added to Thailand’s immigration blacklist. Pictures courtesy of Manager Online Join the discussion? 10 July 2026

Thailand has reduced property transfer and mortgage registration fees to 0.01 percent for eligible home purchases, in a move aimed at supporting homebuyers and stimulating the economy. The measure applies to houses, land sold with residential buildings and condominiums where the sale price, official valuation and mortgage amount do not exceed THB 7 million. It took effect on July 1, 2026, and will remain in force until June 30, 2027. Get today's headlines by email The reduced fees are available only to individual buyers who are Thai nationals. For houses, including detached, semi-detached and terraced homes, as well as commercial buildings sold with land, the mortgage registration fee is reduced only when the mortgage is registered at the same time as the property transfer. The changes were published in the Royal Gazette on July 1, 2026, through two Ministry of Interior announcements. The announcements followed a Cabinet decision made on June 30, 2026, approving the temporary fee reductions. According to the Ministry of Interior, the policy is intended to ease the financial burden on people purchasing their own homes while also supporting property transactions for the benefit of the national economy. The same conditions apply to condominium purchases in officially registered condominium buildings. To qualify, both the property’s sale price and its official valuation must not exceed THB 7 million. The mortgage amount must also be no more than THB 7 million, and buyers must meet the nationality requirement. For both residential properties and condominiums, the reduced mortgage registration fee applies only if the mortgage is registered simultaneously with the transfer of ownership. The latest measure extends government efforts to support Thailand’s property sector as the housing market continues to face economic pressures. By lowering transaction costs, the government aims to encourage more eligible buyers to complete home purchases during the one-year period. The Nation reported that the reduced fees are already in effect following publication in the Royal Gazette. Eligible buyers completing property transfers and mortgage registrations before June 30, 2027, can benefit from the lower charges provided they satisfy all qualifying conditions. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 6 July 2026

Thailand is considering a THB2.45 billion tourism stimulus package that could offer 500,000 travel co-payment entitlements, discounts on 400,000 domestic airline seats and support for international flights. Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul presented the three proposals after the first meeting of the Joint Public and Private Sector Consultative Committee on Tourism at the ministry's Government Complex offices on Wednesday, July 15. None of the measures is available yet. They must be approved by the main joint public-private committee and the Cabinet, while funding would need to be allocated from the central budget. Hotel and travel spending co-payments The largest project, Thai Travel Thai Plus, is a revised version of the former We Travel Together scheme. It would provide 500,000 entitlements, with the government paying 50% of eligible tourism spending and travellers meeting the other half. Each traveller could receive up to five entitlements. The state contribution for accommodation would be capped at THB3,000 per entitlement, with a further coupon worth up to THB500 for other qualifying expenses. The scheme would apply in all 77 provinces and cover hotels and other accommodation, restaurants, attractions, OTOP shops, spas and health-massage businesses, one-day tours, car hire, public transport and boat hire. It would require THB1.75 billion from the 2026 and 2027 fiscal years. Authorities estimate it could create THB32.046 billion in economic activity and THB1.6 billion in tax revenue. For foreign residents and visitors, the key point is that eligibility rules have not yet been announced. Previous domestic tourism subsidy schemes have generally been aimed at Thai participants, so foreigners should not assume they will qualify unless the eventual terms specifically include them, but it not expected. Domestic fares and international flight support A second proposal, Fly Thai All the Feeling, would provide airline discount codes for 400,000 seats on domestic services operated by six airlines. Passengers flying to major tourism cities would receive THB400 off per flight, while travel to secondary cities would attract a THB600 reduction. The first-come, first-served scheme would need THB200 million and is expected to support at least 200,000 trips where travellers use the benefit for return travel. The third project, Thailand Air Connect: Connecting the World to Amazing Thailand, would allocate THB500 million for joint marketing campaigns with scheduled airlines and charter operators. It aims to support at least 600 flights and bring in at least 487,000 overseas visitors, including 87,000 charter-flight passengers and 400,000 visitors through scheduled airline promotions. Authorities project at least THB23.166 billion in tourism revenue. If approved, Thai Travel Thai Plus could begin issuing entitlements towards the end of 2026. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? 17 July 2026

A Chinese woman has been arrested at a Pai resort after police said she repeatedly caused trouble by pulling the hair of Thai people and foreign tourists in the northern tourist town. Su Qi, a Chinese national, was detained at Belle Villa Pai Resort in Mae Hong Son province at 1pm on 15 July. Pai police worked with immigration and tourist police officers after obtaining a court warrant for her arrest. The operation was led by Pol Lt Patcharawadee Phadungyat, deputy investigation inspector at Pai Police Station. Police are pursuing a charge relating to using force against another person, as well as conduct considered bullying, intimidating, harassing, humiliating or causing annoyance. Pharmacy complaint prompted court warrant The arrest followed an alleged assault inside a pharmacy in Pai district, where a woman was buying medicine with her husband and child. Police said Su Qi allegedly approached the woman without reason and pulled her hair. The pharmacy owner, angered by the alleged behaviour, collected CCTV footage and handed it to the victim. The woman then lodged a formal complaint with Pai police. Investigators used the available evidence to seek a court warrant, leading to the arrest at the resort. Su Qi was taken to investigators for further legal proceedings. Reports of earlier incidents Investigators said the Chinese woman had allegedly been involved in several previous incidents in Pai, targeting both Thai residents and overseas visitors by pulling their hair. Police had reportedly been called out to deal with her behaviour on several occasions. However, no victims had previously made formal complaints, meaning officers were unable to take the case further at the time, police said. Pai is a busy destination for international tourists, long-stay travellers and foreign residents, particularly during the cooler months. The case is a reminder that foreigners who are assaulted or harassed should make an official police report if they want authorities to pursue the matter. Where possible, victims should retain CCTV footage, photographs, medical records and witness details. In this case, the pharmacy's camera footage and the victim's complaint were central to police obtaining a warrant. Pictures courtesy of SiamRath Join the discussion? 16 July 2026

Kuwaiti tourists have alleged that uniformed police officers in Pattaya repeatedly demanded cash traffic fines of 2,500 to 5,000 baht away from police stations, issuing receipts they were later told were fake. Get today's headlines by email The group made their complaint to local reporters on the evening of 14 July, after spending the past month holidaying in Pattaya. They supplied video said to have been secretly recorded during negotiations, along with cash-receipt slips they said were handed to them. Tourists accept offences but question the process Speaking through an interpreter, the visitors said they understood Thailand's laws, including rules for riding motorcycles, and accepted that they should face lawful action for genuine traffic offences. Thailandreal estate However, they said the enforcement process was unclear. They alleged that they were stopped between two and five times on some nights, usually after midnight, and were each asked to pay fines ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 baht. According to the tourists, officers took them to secluded locations rather than allowing them to pay at a police station. They claimed an unidentified man collected the money while officers stood nearby, and that cash was the only payment method accepted. They said they were warned that their motorcycles could be seized if they did not pay. Receipts said to resemble shop slips The group said they asked to settle fines at a police station but were firmly refused. They were also allegedly not permitted to pay at an impound area somewhere in Pattaya, although they said they could not remember its location. They claimed they were told they would have to pay towing and storage charges in cash. If they wanted a receipt, they said, an additional 500 baht was demanded. The receipts they received allegedly resembled those issued by small shops, although they listed the alleged offence and fine amount. When the visitors later showed the slips to other officers, they said they were told the documents were fake. They further alleged that, after a minor collision in which some fell from their motorcycles, two or three members of the same group of officers again took them away and imposed fines in a similar manner, despite the tourists saying they did not know what offence they had committed. Call for police inquiry The visitors said they had travelled to Pattaya many times and had previously considered the city safe because of its policing against crime. This year, they said they had become more afraid of police than criminals. For foreign visitors and expatriates, the complaint is a reminder to ask for clear details of any alleged offence and official payment procedure. Anyone facing a traffic fine should seek to pay through recognised official channels and retain all documentation, particularly if a cash-only demand or an unofficial-looking receipt raises concerns. The tourists said they wanted senior local and national police commanders to investigate the allegations, establish the facts and take firm action if wrongdoing is found. They said they did not want Pattaya's image as a tourist destination damaged. Pictures courtesy of SiamChon Join the discussion? 15 July 2026

CP Group has requested termination of the high-speed rail contract linking three airports, citing its inability to obtain investment promotion approval from the Board of Investment (BOI) and issue the notice to proceed (NTP) for construction. The request has been submitted to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), with the matter expected to be considered by the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee by August 2026. Get today's headlines by email A meeting of the SRT board on July 9, 2026, reviewed options for resolving issues surrounding the three-airport high-speed rail project. The public-private partnership involves the SRT and Asia Era One Co Ltd, with CP Group as the major shareholder. Negotiations to amend the joint investment contract began in 2021 after the Cabinet approved the principle of contract changes on October 19, 2021, to reduce the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Discussions continued through several governments, but no agreement was reached. SRT governor Anan Phonimdaeng said after the board meeting that CP had formally sent a letter requesting termination of the joint investment contract. The company cited its inability to apply for and receive a BOI investment promotion certificate, along with its inability to issue the NTP required for construction to begin. The next step will be for the SRT to submit the matter to the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee for review by August 2026. The Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO) has scheduled a meeting of the joint investment contract management committee for July 15, 2026, to discuss the proposed mutual termination between EECO, the SRT and CP. Anan said a key issue following any contract termination would be negotiations over management of the Airport Rail Link, as its operation is connected to the wider agreement. If the main contract ends, the private operator’s right to manage train services would also end. The current train-operation contract is scheduled to expire on September 30. The SRT is preparing contingency plans to ensure passengers are not affected and may need to negotiate with the private operator on a temporary management arrangement, although legal details remain under review. The Nation reported that the SRT is also examining Asia Era One Co Ltd’s investment claims and whether compensation would be required if the contract is terminated. Initial reviews indicate that expenses and revenue, including interest, would need to be offset before a final figure can be determined. Join the discussion? 11 July 2026

Proposed amendments to Thailand’s Hotel Act and Immigration Act have drawn criticism from members of parliament, despite passing their first reading in parliament. The changes are intended to reduce duplicate reporting requirements for foreign visitors staying temporarily in the country, but critics argue they fail to close existing loopholes because illegal accommodation providers would remain outside the system. Get today's headlines by email The amendments, proposed by the cabinet and a Bhumjaithai Party MP, seek to simplify the notification process for those responsible for reporting foreign guests. Under the draft legislation, the responsibility would rest primarily with the householder, property owner or hotel manager, who must notify authorities within 24 hours through electronic channels. Foreign visitors would no longer be required to submit duplicate notifications themselves, except in cases considered necessary for national security or public safety. Opposition parties argued during the parliamentary debate that the definitions of the three groups responsible for reporting remain unclear. They said the proposals do not cover all types of accommodation available in Thailand, particularly unregistered properties, leaving significant gaps in enforcement. Official records show that of Thailand’s 20,000 legally registered accommodation providers, only 50-60% have submitted information on foreign guests to the Immigration Bureau. Opposition MPs and some members of the governing coalition have therefore urged the government to speed up amendments to the Hotel Act, with several draft proposals already prepared to expand the law to cover a broader range of property types. Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association, said the version debated in parliament would apply only to licensed hotels, leaving illegal accommodation providers beyond regulatory scrutiny. He noted that licensed hotels are already required to report foreign guest details to the Immigration Bureau, while many other accommodation types are not subject to the same obligation. Mr Thienprasit said this makes it more difficult for authorities to trace the whereabouts of foreign nationals staying in non-hotel properties. He added that while the proposed amendments would reduce administrative duplication for businesses and support law enforcement, the government’s wider objective of improving oversight and security would only be achieved by bringing illegal accommodation providers into the reporting system. Bangkokpost reported that lawmakers also questioned the proposed definitions of a householder and the owner of a dwelling. They noted that many property owners now rely on management companies or intermediary booking platforms to handle guest reservations, arguing the revised legislation should clearly identify which party is legally responsible for reporting guest registrations to the Immigration Bureau. Join the discussion? 11 July 2026

Thai authorities have dismantled a network accused of arranging fake Thai fathers to falsely register foreign children as Thai citizens, with 164 Chinese nationals allegedly using the scheme over five years. The operation, named “Dragon Scale Removal”, involved police, the Department of Provincial Administration, DOPA N.I.C.E, the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission and the Anti-Money Laundering Office. Get today's headlines by email On July 9, Pol Gen Samran Nuanma, deputy national police chief, and Pol Lt Gen Noppasin Poolsawat, adviser to the Royal Thai Police chief, led officers in searches targeting hospital and district office officials, 17 alleged Thai nominee fathers and foreign mothers. Court warrants were issued for 42 searches linked to the investigation. The investigation followed the April 2024 arrest of Chinese national Chen Yinlai, accused of operating a scam network that used Thailand as a base to launder more than 70 billion baht. Authorities said financial investigations found transfers through mule accounts to Paojiao Chen, Chen Yinlai’s Chinese wife, whose three children were found to have Thai nationality. Investigators said Thai men had allegedly been hired to register marriages with Chinese women and act as fathers on birth registrations. A private hospital in Bangkok was allegedly used to provide childbirth packages, with hospital staff and district officials assisting in documents used to obtain Thai citizenship for children. Police said a hospital employee, identified as Sunee, allegedly acted as a broker, arranging childbirth services at a private hospital in Thonburi for 70,000 baht per case. She allegedly received about 20,000 baht for processing documents, while Thai men were paid between 2,000 and 15,000 baht to provide false father recognition. Authorities said checks of medical records found 164 Chinese nationals who used Thai fathers for birth registrations. Investigators said there were no earlier pregnancy records showing the Thai fathers and alleged that fathers appeared only later when birth documents were prepared. The Department of Provincial Administration has ordered relevant registrars to cancel fraudulent registration records and revoke Thai nationality obtained through the alleged scheme. Immigration authorities will consider legal action, including possible deportation of foreign nationals involved. Amarin reported that officials said suspects were taken to the Metropolitan Police Bureau Division 8 for questioning and further investigation. Authorities will continue expanding the investigation and examine any state officials suspected of involvement for possible disciplinary and criminal action. Pictures courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? 10 July 2026

A giant python measuring more than four metres in length was captured by rescue workers after entering the home of a 75-year-old woman in Sattahip district, Chon Buri, during the early hours. The reptile was discovered hiding in a storage room after the homeowner, Pailin Sappana, contacted the Rescue Sattahip radio centre at about 1am, fearing for the safety of her family. Get today's headlines by email A snake-catching specialist was sent to the property in tambon Sattahip, where the python, described as having a body as thick as a human leg, was located and secured using a snare pole. The snake resisted capture, struggling fiercely as rescuers attempted to place it into a transport sack. Two rescue workers and two local residents spent more than 10 minutes wrestling the reptile under control before it was removed and later released back into the wild. Ms Pailin said the same python had entered her home about a month earlier and had eaten several of her cats before escaping. She recalled trying to grab the snake by its tail at the time but was unable to hold on. This time, she spotted it again after seeing its head emerge from the roof of her house, prompting her to seek assistance from rescue services. Picture courtesy of Daily News Although she believed the python could be a “spirit guardian” that had lived in the area for a long time, Ms Pailin said she could not allow it to remain because of the danger it posed to her family. She said she felt some attachment to the animal but decided public safety had to come first. Following the successful capture, the python was transported away from the property and released into its natural habitat. Rescue personnel responded promptly to the call and safely removed the large reptile without any reported injuries. Ms Pailin also said she believed the unusual encounter could bring good fortune. She plans to use her house number, 73/22, together with the number four, representing the snake’s length in metres, and 75, her age, when choosing numbers for the upcoming lottery draw. AQOasFUKnouNjByAe6qsqfJceMZ8ug4gTPhmu0T_BjNmWIitmiMLBAqpGWA8njVkTHzVih7b5X28TyomgKex93wmsZ7g6Dd-a_jsDYpQig.mp4 Join the discussion? 9 July 2026

A 26-year-old Swedish man wanted under an Interpol Red Notice for drug possession has been arrested at a condominium in Jomtien, Chonburi, and is being prepared for deportation to Sweden to face legal proceedings. Get today's headlines by email Thailand’s Immigration Bureau said investigators from the Immigration Bureau Investigation Division detained the suspect, identified as Silo Serhat, at about 9.30am on 8 July 2026. Officers said his permission to remain in Thailand had already been revoked after authorities confirmed he was the subject of an Interpol Red Notice issued at the request of Swedish authorities. The operation formed part of an ongoing campaign by the Immigration Bureau to locate foreign nationals accused of crimes who have entered or are hiding in Thailand. The investigation was ordered by Lieutenant General Phanumat Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, together with Major General Phanthana Nuchanart, Deputy Commissioner, and Major General Phanop Worathanatchakul, Commander of the Immigration Bureau Investigation Division. Police said the suspect had entered Thailand in May and was still legally permitted to stay, until immigration authorities cancelled his permission following confirmation of the international arrest request. The Red Notice relates to an alleged drug possession offence in Sweden. Acting on intelligence, investigators traced the suspect to Lumpini Seaview Condominiums, in the Jomtien area of Chonburi. Officers monitored the location before approaching him in the building lobby, where they checked his passport and confirmed his identity matched Interpol records before taking him into custody. Thaitabloid reported that The Immigration Bureau said it will continue working closely with Interpol and overseas security agencies to identify and arrest transnational fugitives using Thailand as a place of refuge. Authorities also urged members of the public to report foreign nationals suspected of criminal activity to local immigration offices or through the Immigration Bureau’s 1178 hotline. Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid Join the discussion? 9 July 2026

A 31-year-old Russian national has been arrested in Chonburi after Thai authorities linked him to an alleged romance scam that reportedly defrauded a Thai woman of more than 4 million baht. Investigators say the suspect was part of an organised online fraud network that used a fake profile claiming to be a foreign airline pilot to gain the victim’s trust before persuading her to transfer money. Get today's headlines by email The arrest was carried out on 8 July 2026 by officers from Immigration Bureau Investigation Division 1 working alongside Chonburi Tourist Police. The suspect, identified only as Mr Alexander, was wanted under an arrest warrant issued by the Samut Prakan Provincial Court on charges of jointly defrauding the public and importing false information into a computer system. According to the Immigration Bureau, the operation was ordered by Immigration Bureau Commissioner Lieutenant General Phanumas Boonyalak, Deputy Commissioner Major General Phanthana Nutchanart, Investigation Division Commander Major General Phanop Worathanatchakul, Deputy Commander Colonel Ratchote Chotikhun, and Colonel Chitdet Songhong, who is attached to the Immigration Bureau Investigation Division. Police Colonel Thawatchai Narinrat and investigators from Investigation Division 1 worked with Tourist Police officers to locate and arrest the suspect. Police said the alleged fraud involved creating an attractive fake online identity, claiming to be a foreign pilot, and developing a relationship with the victim through social media. Once trust had been established, the victim was reportedly persuaded to transfer money on multiple occasions, resulting in losses exceeding 4 million baht. Investigators traced the suspect to a condominium in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province. Officers arrested him without incident before transferring him to investigators at Samut Prakan City Police Station for legal proceedings. The Immigration Bureau said the case highlights the continuing threat posed by romance scam networks targeting victims through online platforms. Authorities warned the public to be cautious when forming relationships with people met online, particularly individuals claiming to be foreign nationals or holding respected professions who later ask for money for any reason. ThaiRath reported that the bureau urged anyone with information about foreign nationals suspected of criminal activity to report it to their local Immigration Bureau office or contact the Immigration Bureau hotline on 1178. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath Join the discussion? 9 July 2026

Bangkok has entered the world’s top 10 most expensive cities for luxury living for the first time, according to the Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report 2026 published by Swiss private bank Julius Baer. The Thai capital climbed from 11th place in 2025 to 10th this year, marking its first appearance in the top 10 since the index was introduced in 2020. Get today's headlines by email The ranking measures the cost of maintaining a high-end lifestyle for high-net-worth individuals. It is based on the prices of 20 categories of premium goods and services across 25 cities worldwide. Julius Baer said the Asia-Pacific region continues to be a major global wealth hub, with five cities featuring in the top 10 rankings. Alongside Bangkok, the regional cities are Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Sydney. Singapore retained its position as the world’s most expensive city for luxury living for a fourth consecutive year. The report said high property and vehicle costs, combined with the strength of the Singapore dollar, helped keep it at the top of the index. Zurich rose to second place, while Monaco entered the top three for the first time. Hong Kong ranked fourth and London placed fifth in the latest global standings. Bangkok’s rise reflects continued growth in the luxury goods market and spending by affluent consumers across the region. The report highlights increasing demand for premium products and services as wealth continues to expand in parts of Asia-Pacific. The report also found that the global cost of luxury living increased by an average of 10.2 percent in US dollar terms during 2026. Julius Baer said stronger currencies in several countries and higher material prices, particularly gold, were among the main factors driving higher prices for luxury goods such as jewellery and watches. The latest rankings provide a snapshot of how costs are changing for wealthy consumers around the world. They are also closely watched by financial institutions and businesses involved in luxury markets as an indicator of spending trends and regional wealth patterns. Khaosod reported that future editions of the Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report will show whether Bangkok remains among the world’s 10 most expensive cities for luxury living as economic conditions, currency movements and consumer demand continue to evolve. TOP 10 CITIES FOR LUXURY LIVING COSTS IN 2026 Singapore Zurich, Switzerland Monaco Hong Kong London, United Kingdom Shanghai, China Paris, France Sydney, Australia Milan, Italy Bangkok, Thailand Join the discussion? 9 July 2026

An interprovincial passenger bus travelling on the Bangkok-Nan route was destroyed by fire in Phitsanulok province during the early hours of Wednesday 8 July 2026, but all 21 passengers escaped safely without injury. Get today's headlines by email The fire broke out at about 2.10am at a petrol station on Highway 117, on the inbound route to Phitsanulok near the Yang Ped police booth in Bang Rakam district. The air-conditioned coach was operated by Nakhonchai Air Co. Emergency responders were called to the scene after flames rapidly engulfed the bus. The Wang Intok tambon administration organisation dispatched water trucks to support firefighters battling the blaze. Firefighters worked for around 30 minutes before bringing the fire under control. By that stage, the bus had been extensively damaged and was completely destroyed. Despite the severity of the fire, authorities confirmed that all 21 passengers were safely evacuated before the flames spread through the vehicle. No injuries or fatalities were reported. Police investigators and forensic officers later examined the scene as part of an investigation into the cause of the fire. Officials have not yet determined what triggered the blaze and have not released details of the bus’s fuel system. Bangkokpost reported that the investigation will focus on establishing how the fire started and whether any mechanical fault or other factor contributed to the incident. Authorities have not announced when their findings are expected. Join the discussion? 8 July 2026

A 37-year-old Ghanaian national has been detained for deportation after Phuket immigration authorities revoked his permission to remain in Thailand following repeated public complaints about his behaviour. Officials said the action forms part of a wider effort to protect public order and maintain Phuket’s reputation as a tourist destination. Get today's headlines by email The Phuket Immigration Office, working with Chalong Police Station, confirmed that the man’s visa was revoked after residents reported repeated incidents involving intoxication, harassment and sleeping at temples. Authorities identified him only as Mr. Boakye. According to immigration officials, Mr. Boakye first entered Thailand in 2024 to work as a language teacher in Bangkok. In 2026, he moved to Patong, Phuket, where he continued teaching before losing his job following repeated problems linked to alcohol use. Officials said the loss of employment left him without a source of income or permanent accommodation. He subsequently sought shelter at a local church before later staying at Wat Chalong. Authorities stated that while staying at the temple, Mr. Boakye’s conduct included intoxication, intimidating local residents and causing disturbances involving tourists. Investigators concluded that his behaviour posed a threat to public safety. Following a review of the case, Phuket Immigration applied to revoke his permission to remain in Thailand under Section 54 of the Immigration Act (1979). The request was approved, and he has now been taken into custody pending deportation to Ghana. Immigration officials said the enforcement action reflects a broader policy of taking action against foreign nationals whose behaviour is considered harmful to public order and damaging to Phuket’s tourism image. The operation was carried out in cooperation with Chalong Police Station. Mr. Boakye remains in immigration custody while arrangements are made for his removal from Thailand. Authorities have not announced any additional charges in connection with the case. Pictures courtesy of The Phuket Express Related story Ghanaian-man-found-living-at-Phuket-temple Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now The Phuketexpress 4 July 2026

A Swiss man who moved to Thailand to care for his mother with Alzheimer’s disease has gone on to establish a dementia care facility in Chiang Mai, offering long-term support for international residents at a fraction of the cost of comparable care in Europe and North America. Get today's headlines by email Martin Woodtli, 65, relocated his mother from Switzerland to Chiang Mai in 2003 after years of caring for her following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. After his father, who had been her primary caregiver, developed depression and later died by suicide, Woodtli became solely responsible for her care and began searching for alternatives. Dissatisfied with the institutional atmosphere and high costs of Swiss care facilities, Woodtli chose to return to Chiang Mai, where he had previously worked with Doctors Without Borders during the 1990s. He believed Thailand’s culture of respect for older people and a more personal care environment could improve his mother’s quality of life. Woodtli moved into a house with his mother and employed three caregivers recruited through local hospitals to provide round-the-clock support. He said the new environment helped his mother become more comfortable and socially engaged, developing her own style of communication despite the progression of her illness. Within a year, Woodtli used money inherited from his father to establish Baan Kamlangchay, a dementia care home located in a residential neighbourhood outside Chiang Mai city centre. Interest in the facility grew after a Swiss documentary filmmaker recorded the story of Woodtli and his mother in 2003, leading families from Switzerland and Germany to make enquiries. Today, Woodtli and his Thai wife operate the facility, which cares for around 10 residents living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Residents, whom Woodtli refers to as guests, live across eight separate houses integrated into a local Thai community rather than in a single institutional building. According to Thai civil registration data, Chiang Mai recorded 160,958 foreign residents in 2025, representing around 9% of the province’s approximately 1.8 million residents. The city’s international airport, lower living costs and long-stay visa options have contributed to its popularity among retirees and overseas residents. Baan Kamlangchay operates as a registered company in Thailand and provides accommodation, daily assistance and supportive care through trained caregivers. Residents access medical services through local healthcare providers when required, as there are no on-site medical staff. The cost of care starts at approximately US$2,900 per month, including accommodation, meals and 24-hour support. By comparison, nursing home care in the United States averaged about US$112,420 annually, on 2024 data, while dementia care in Swiss nursing homes was estimated at 89,756 Swiss francs per year. Caleb Johnston, an associate professor of human geography at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom, described the movement of people to Thailand for care and palliative support as a small but growing trend. He said lower costs, a large caregiving workforce and an expanding private care sector were attracting international clients, though families must also consider the impact of distance from established social networks and long-term friendships. At Baan Kamlangchay, each guest is supported by a dedicated team of three caregivers working rotating shifts, with one caregiver sleeping in the same room at night. The facility also includes shared dining areas, an activity centre with a swimming pool and a small convenience store that allows residents to interact with local villagers and maintain a sense of independence. Anke Blomberg, whose mother Gerda has lived at Baan Kamlangchay for eight years, said she chose the facility after finding care homes in Germany impersonal. After visiting Chiang Mai with her mother for a month, she decided the environment and level of care were suitable and now visits twice each year. Woodtli said many residents remain at the facility for years and stay until the end of their lives. His own mother lived at Baan Kamlangchay until her death in 2006. Picture courtesy of Businessinsider Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Businessinsider 28 June 2026

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has ordered a preliminary investigation into allegations of bid rigging linked to projects at Airports of Thailand (AOT) worth 74.9 million baht. The inquiry follows a complaint submitted by lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd, who alleged that a former deputy prime minister and a major news organisation were involved in coordinating work for individuals and companies under scrutiny. Get today's headlines by email Sittra, secretary-general of the People’s Lawyer Team Foundation, submitted evidence to the DSI on 16 June 2026. He asked the agency to investigate whether offences related to bid rigging had occurred and requested that his tip-off letter be treated as a formal criminal complaint if evidence of wrongdoing is found. The complaint concerns projects involving internet systems and passenger drop-off facilities at Suvarnabhumi Airport. At the time of submission, Pol Lt Col Woranan Srilam, director of the Consumer Protection Cases Division and DSI spokesperson, accepted the documents on behalf of the agency. On 19 June, DSI Director-General Pol Maj Yutthana Praedam said he had assigned the case to the Bureau of Offences Relating to the Submission of Bids to State Agencies, commonly known as the bid-rigging investigation division. He said investigators would begin examining the allegations and determine whether the matter meets the criteria for designation as a special case. According to Yutthana, the allegations raised by the complainant may warrant examination into whether collusion occurred during the procurement process. If investigators find sufficient grounds, the division may later propose that the matter be formally accepted as a special investigation. Reports indicate that the DSI team has already begun reviewing a large volume of documents provided by Sittra. These include chat messages from a Line group, project details, quotations and procurement information connected to Suvarnabhumi Airport systems. The materials reportedly cover projects involving i-PRO Network Cameras with AI engines, FastLane Passenger Drop Systems, budget allocations for fiscal years 2025 and supplementary 2025 spending, as well as network upgrades, CCTV systems, screening equipment, intrusion detection systems, automated passport control gates, fire alarm systems, telephone replacement systems, access control installations, speed detection equipment and other infrastructure projects. Officials have not announced any findings, charges or conclusions. The review remains at the preliminary investigation stage. Daily News reported that as the document examination continues, investigators will assess whether the evidence supports allegations of bid rigging and whether the case should proceed as a special case under DSI jurisdiction. Picture courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 21 June 2026

A 75-year-old man has been fined by police after being filmed riding an electric three-wheeled trike through the busy Ha Yaek Lat Phrao intersection in Bangkok, prompting safety concerns among motorists and social media users. Get today's headlines by email On 17 June, Pol Maj Gen Damrongsak Sawangngam, commander of the Traffic Police Division, and Pol Lt Col Dampawon Thong-im, deputy superintendent of the Vibhavadi-Rangsit Traffic Control Centre and Expressway Unit, ordered officers from Vibhavadi Police Station to summon the rider, identified only as Mr A, aged 75, Thai national. He was brought in for legal proceedings and fined in accordance with traffic regulations. The action followed the circulation of dashboard camera footage recorded on 10 June 2026. The video, which was widely shared online, showed the elderly man driving an electric three-wheeled trike along the roadway at Ha Yaek Lat Phrao while surrounded by heavy traffic and passing vehicles. After becoming aware of the footage, traffic officers launched an investigation and gathered evidence. They were eventually able to locate the rider and invite him for discussions regarding the relevant laws before issuing a fine under the proper legal procedures. Picture courtesy of Daily News Police also used the case to remind the public that electric scooters, certain types of electric bicycles, electric three-wheeled bicycles, trikes and electric suitcases are not permitted on public roads. Authorities said such vehicles may pose risks to both riders and other road users and do not comply with current traffic regulations. Officials urged members of the public, particularly elderly people and their families, to choose vehicles suitable for their intended environment and avoid using these types of electric vehicles on busy roads. Police warned that even a brief lapse in judgement could result in serious accidents and significant loss. Reports stated that the man was wearing dark sunglasses and was driving an electric three-wheeled trike displaying the registration “Tong 9999”. The vehicle was travelling slowly within a traffic lane, prompting concern from other road users who feared a serious collision could occur. In the video, the person recording the incident can be heard saying: “This is Ha Yaek Lat Phrao, uncle. It is very dangerous. If anyone is his children or grandchildren, please come and look after him.” Following the video’s release, many social media users commented on the incident, with some jokingly describing the man’s actions as “speeding up the inheritance” for his descendants. Daily News reported that police said they will continue public awareness efforts regarding the legal use of electric vehicles and road safety to help prevent similar incidents and reduce the risk of accidents. AQMn-gOFerfI9b2jhk5UK252i4WkCTcfmQdQvP16wnBESLlB5c7bFCGBi25z1DMM6Pf95i8iLQBLEdO2V_rZ2okEy2SMcw42C6tML6_bBw.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 18 June 2026

Thailand’s main opposition People’s Party MP Sorasak Samonkraisorakit has warned that the country should avoid becoming politically subservient to China, arguing that Thailand must maintain a foreign policy based on the rule of law to safeguard its sovereignty and national security. Get today's headlines by email Sorasak said Thailand should distinguish between cultural and commercial ties with Chinese people and political influence associated with the Chinese state. He raised concerns about China’s political model, alleged influence networks, regional arms supplies and the environmental impact of Chinese-linked mining activities in Myanmar and Laos. Writing on Facebook, Sorasak said appreciating Chinese culture and commerce “does not mean Thailand should submit or become a politically subservient state in international affairs”. He argued that influential business networks linked to a centralised state power structure were expanding their reach through what he described as forms of hybrid warfare, while some members of Thailand’s elite and intellectual circles had openly praised China’s political system. He urged Thai society to recognise what he described as hidden threats behind the rhetoric of friendship. Sorasak criticised praise for China’s political model, claiming it presented an unrealistic picture of governance and citing exiled Chinese scholar Chenggang Xu, who has argued that China’s apparent success is an “illusion” created through a United Front strategy using economic interests to influence intellectuals. Sorasak also warned that adopting a political model that rejects the rule of law would undermine democratic principles and allow what he described as geocriminality and networks of grey Chinese capital to erode Thailand’s bureaucracy. He said the country needed a “geopolitical backbone” grounded in the rule of law to defend itself against external domination. He further questioned China’s regional role, arguing that assurances over arms supplied to one of Thailand’s neighbouring countries were insufficient without internationally enforceable guarantees. Sorasak said China was simultaneously supplying weapons to a country involved in disputes with Thailand while presenting itself as a mediator for peace, which he claimed reflected an effort to shape regional security under its own influence. The opposition MP also alleged that Chinese exploitation of natural resources in Myanmar and Laos had damaged the environment and affected communities downstream, including in Thailand. He criticised Chinese claims that more scientific evidence was needed despite studies by international organisations reporting pollution and toxic substances exceeding safety standards in the Kok and Mekong rivers. Khaosod reported that Sorasak concluded that Thais could continue to embrace Chinese culture and conduct business with Chinese people while distinguishing ordinary citizens from political influence networks that he considers a hidden threat. He ended by quoting Confucius: “Listen to what a person says, but observe what they do.” Join the discussion? 13 July 2026

Customs officials and police arrested a Thai woman and a Filipino national at Phuket International Airport on 9 July 2026 after they were caught attempting to smuggle more than 32 kilograms of cannabis flower out of Thailand. The operation took place at the international departures terminal in Mai Khao Subdistrict, Thalang District, as part of ongoing efforts to prevent the illegal export of cannabis through the country’s airports. Get today's headlines by email The first arrest was made at about 11:00 when customs officers inspected a black Pierre Cardin suitcase belonging to 18-year-old Philippine national Levannah Chelsea Guzman. Officers discovered 14 vacuum-sealed packages containing cannabis flower with a combined weight of 14.5 kilograms, including packaging. Police said Guzman admitted ownership of both the suitcase and its contents. She was charged with attempting to export goods without completing customs procedures, along with offences under Thailand’s Narcotics Code, the Traditional Thai Medicine Wisdom Protection and Promotion Act, the Ministry of Public Health’s Controlled Herbs (Cannabis) Notification and other related laws. At around 13:00, officers carried out a second inspection involving a green SWISH NAVY suitcase belonging to Thai national Penpitcha Phutsiang. The search uncovered 16 vacuum-sealed packages containing cannabis flower weighing 17.6 kilograms, including packaging. According to police, Phutsiang also admitted ownership of the suitcase and the seized cannabis. Following the arrests, both women were handed over to investigators at Sakhu Police Station for further legal proceedings. The operation was conducted jointly by customs officers at Phuket Airport and officers from Sakhu Police. Authorities said the arrests form part of intensified enforcement measures aimed at preventing cannabis from being illegally exported through Thailand’s international airports. Officials said customs officers are continuing to strengthen baggage inspections and enforcement activities as part of wider efforts to detect and intercept attempts to smuggle cannabis overseas. The latest arrests underline the continued focus on outbound passenger screening following previous attempts to export cannabis through Thai airports. Khaosod reported that the investigation will now continue under the relevant customs and narcotics laws, with both suspects facing legal proceedings. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? 11 July 2026

American military cadets from the United States Military Academy at West Point and the United States Air Force Academy visited Bangkok on 19 June 2025 for an educational seminar hosted by the US Embassy. The visit provided the cadets with first-hand exposure to the long-standing security partnership between Thailand and the United States, one of Washington’s oldest alliances in Asia. Get today's headlines by email During their visit, the cadets met senior leaders from the Royal Thai Army and the Royal Thai Air Force. They also toured military museums and spoke with both American and Thai alumni connected to the military institutions. According to the US Embassy, the programme was designed to deepen the cadets’ understanding of how the US-Thai alliance contributes to the security and prosperity of citizens in both countries. The visit formed part of a broader effort to familiarise future military leaders with key international partnerships and regional security relationships. Thailand and the United States have maintained diplomatic and military ties for more than 200 years. The relationship is regarded as one of the longest-standing bilateral partnerships that the United States maintains in the region. The visit highlighted ongoing military-to-military engagement between the two countries and provided opportunities for exchanges with Thai defence leaders and military personnel. Discussions and activities focused on the history of cooperation between the allies and the role the partnership continues to play in regional stability and security. The seminar also gave the cadets an opportunity to learn about Thailand’s armed forces, defence institutions and military heritage through direct interaction with senior officials and visits to military sites. Khaosod reported the visit is expected to contribute to stronger professional links between future American military officers and their Thai counterparts. Educational exchanges and military engagement programmes remain an important element of the broader US-Thai alliance. Pictures courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 21 June 2026

Thai police have seized 49 rai of land worth more than THB 1.05 billion in Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga as part of the latest operation targeting alleged foreign nominee business networks. The coordinated raids on 20 June 2026 involved more than 500 officers and resulted from 59 arrest warrants, 60 search warrants and investigations into 89 land plots linked to suspected illegal ownership structures. Get today's headlines by email The operation, named “Foreign Nominee Network Crackdown Phase 3”, was ordered by Pol Gen Samran Nuanma, Deputy National Police Chief and Director of the Centre for Suppression of Transnational Crime and Illegal Immigration. Pol Lt Gen Noppasin Poolsawat led the operation alongside senior officers from Provincial Police Region 8 and other specialist units. Authorities said the investigation focused on companies suspected of using Thai nationals as nominees to hold shares on behalf of foreign investors, allowing them to control land and businesses in violation of Thai law. Across Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, investigators identified 29 companies allegedly operating as nominees and 48 companies holding land while having foreign shareholders in the majority. In Phuket, police examined 56 land plots with a combined value of about THB 231 million. Investigators identified 10 nominee companies controlling four land plots worth approximately THB 116 million, leading to 13 arrest warrants for 12 foreign nationals. Another 39 companies were found holding land while foreigners allegedly controlled more than half of the shares. Among the key targets was the G-Mat group of companies, which operates hotels, resorts, vehicle rental services, restaurants, cannabis businesses and fitness facilities. In Phang Nga, officers investigated companies linked to eight land plots. Authorities alleged that nine nominee companies controlled land worth about THB 269 million. One British national, identified only as Andrew, was arrested after investigators found that Sava Beach Villas was operating seven villas as a hotel business without the required licence. Investigators also found evidence suggesting some Thai shareholders listed on company registrations were employees or relatives of company directors who lacked the financial means to make genuine investments, indicating possible nominee arrangements. Pictures courtesy of Komchadluek In Krabi, police targeted property development and entertainment businesses. Authorities arrested 26 Thai nationals and 12 foreign nationals linked to alleged nominee structures. One major case involved Tropical House, a property development company reportedly controlled by Polish investors through Thai nominees despite being registered as a Thai-owned company. Another investigation focused on Kanj Entertainment Partnership, allegedly owned by a South African national who used Thai nominees. Police also accused a lawyer and an accountant of helping create false registration documents, including the use of signatures belonging to deceased individuals. Komchadluek reported that police seized company registration records, accounting documents, computers, mobile phones and other electronic evidence. The material is being examined as investigators expand enquiries into related networks across the country. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 21 June 2026