Police

Deputy Agriculture Minister Shuts Down Chanthaburi Durian Farm Over License Suspension Violation, Seizes 3 Containers Worth 10 Million Baht

A Chanthaburi durian farm operating under a suspended license was shut down and three containers of fresh durian worth 10 million baht were seized by Thai agriculture officials on May 21. The facility had continued production and export ill

1d ago Khaosod

On May 21, Deputy Agriculture Minister Piyarat Tiyapairat instructed the National Bureau of Agricultural Commodity and Food Standards (ACFS) to pursue strict legal action against a durian farm that continued producing and exporting durian while operating under a suspended license. ACFS officials seized three containers of fresh durian worth over 10 million baht from Khao Wua subdistrict in Tha Mai district, Chanthaburi, after discovering the facility was being used without proper authorization.

ACFS had received reports of illegal durian production at the farm without a license. Upon investigation, officials found that a major durian producer in the area, which had its producer and exporter license suspended since May 6, was still operating. The facility contained over 35,000 empty packaging boxes and approximately 50,000 kilograms of packaged durian. Company employees claimed the products belonged to another firm sharing the facility, but inspectors found that firm also lacked authorization to produce durian at the location. Officials therefore sealed both the original farm and the shared-use facility, and seized the three containers of fresh durian valued at over 10 million baht for legal proceedings.

The ACFS Secretary-General noted that producing agricultural products while under a suspended license violates the Agricultural Commodity Standard Act B.E. 2551, which carries penalties including fines, license suspension, and revocation. Packaging fresh durian according to mandatory standard ACFS 9070-2566 outside authorized areas also constitutes a legal violation.

Deputy Minister Piyarat emphasized that producers must strictly comply with the ACFS 9070 standard for fresh durian. She stated the Agriculture Ministry will enforce laws strictly, transparently, and fairly with zero tolerance for manipulation or interference to aid law violators, in order to protect legitimate producers, consumers, and maintain confidence in Thai agricultural products both domestically and internationally.

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Police

Man Searching for Mushrooms in Nam Nao Forest Attacked by Wild Elephant, Body Severely Mutilated

A 37-year-old mushroom forager from Maha Sarakham was killed and severely mutilated by a wild elephant in Nam Nao Forest, Phetchabun Province on May 21, after the startled animal charged at him while he was collecting mushrooms with friends

1d ago Khaosod

On May 21, 2025, Nam Nao Police Station in Phetchabun Province received a report of a wild elephant attack that killed a local mushroom forager in the Baan Sapwang community forest in Nam Nao District. Officers traveled to the scene with Sub-lieutenant Khemchat Prachang, the station commander, along with rescue personnel from the Nam Nao Subdistrict Administration and hospital medical staff.

The incident occurred in a dense community forest behind the village. Officials discovered the victim's remains in a severely mutilated condition, with only the upper torso intact and no clothing. The victim's right leg was found separately, while the left leg was trampled and submerged in a water pool. Internal organs were scattered across the area, and the surrounding ground bore signs of heavy trampling. Numerous elephant footprints were found at the scene.

Initial investigation identified the victim as Phaap, a 37-year-old from Na Thong District in Maha Sarakham Province. He had come to forage for mushrooms with friends to use in cooking and for income. Authorities believe that while Phaap was collecting mushrooms, he encountered a wild elephant that was foraging in the same area. The startled elephant reportedly charged at the foragers, causing them to scatter in different directions. Phaap was unable to escape and was fatally attacked by the elephant. His remains were transported to Nam Nao Hospital for autopsy.

Somkiate Gatiip, director of Nam Nao National Park, explained that mushrooms are currently abundant in the park area, attracting foragers from neighboring provinces. He stated that officials have warned people to be cautious of wild elephants and avoid venturing deep into the forest due to wildlife hazards. He speculated that the attacking elephant may be a male that was separated from its herd and was foraging alone. The increase in human activity in the forest may have stressed the elephant and triggered the attack.

Park officials have ordered staff to track and drive the elephant further into the forest. The public is urged to forage for mushrooms in large groups and to exercise caution around elephants and other wildlife.

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Police

Thai rescuer allegedly threatens to kill wife and steals her valuables

A 45-year-old volunteer rescuer in Nonthaburi allegedly assaulted his wife with a pruning saw and gun, threatened to kill her, and stole valuables worth over 600,000 baht after finding her chatting with an ex-boyfriend online.

1d ago The Thaiger Crime

Thai rescuer allegedly threatens to kill wife and steals her valuablesLegacyA woman in Nonthaburi accused her husband, a volunteer rescuer, of physically assaulting and threatening to kill her in jealousy before stealing valuables worth more than 600,000 baht. The victim, 44 year old Promphit, sought help from the Nonthaburi Member of Parliament (MP) assistants to Kraithawat Thammatada and Saichon Nitkham who accompanied her to file a complaint at Bang Bua Thong Police Station against her 45 year old husband, Sophon. According to Promphit, the assault took place at about 1am on Tuesday, May 19, after Sophon discovered her speaking online with an ex-boyfriend from her childhood. Promphit told police that the man was only a friend and insisted their conversation was not romantic. Photo via Channel 7 Promphit alleged Sophon physically attacked her and attempted to stab her, forcing her to flee their bedroom and seek help from neighbours. However, the property gate was locked and Sophon caught up with her outside the house. Promphit said they argued outside the residence, during which Sophon threatened to kill her and sue her for adultery. Then, the man struck her on the head with a pruning saw, causing serious injuries. She eventually escaped out of the residence but Sophon continued chasing her while carrying a gun. She alleged he hit her on the face with the weapon until witnesses intervened. Photo via Channel 8 According to Promphit, Sophon fled the scene in a van and took several valuables, including cash, a gold necklace, mobile phones, debit cards, vehicle keys and important documents. She estimated the total value exceeded 600,000 baht. When filing the complaint, Promphit still had visible injuries, including swollen eyes, wounds to her nose and cuts on her head and right leg. She said she had been in a relationship with Sophon for four years. The man was extremely jealous and even prevented her from financially supporting her child from her previous marriage. Promphit claimed he had physically abused her three times before, although this was the most serious incident. Photo via Channel 8 Sophon later spoke to Channel 8 and admitted assaulting his wife. However, he claimed he acted because she had been unfaithful and said he possessed evidence supporting his allegations. He also claimed the gun used during the incident was fake and argued that he partly owned the property and valuables taken from the house. Channel 8 reported that police later obtained an arrest warrant for Sophon on charges related to assault and theft. Sophon told media he was prepared to face legal proceedings and would not flee.

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Police

Family of Pa Thiem Receives 1.6 Million Baht Compensation; Relatives Unanimously Decide to Give Entire Amount to Youngest Brother

The family of Pa Thiem, killed in a May 16 train-bus collision in Bangkok, received 1.6 million baht in insurance compensation and unanimously decided to give the entire amount to her youngest brother.

1d ago Khaosod

The family of Pa Thiem has received 1.6 million baht in compensation from insurance companies following a fatal train-bus collision. The family is still coming to terms with the sudden loss. A train struck Bus Route 206 at the Asok-Petchburi railway crossing on Kamphaeng Phet Road 7 on May 16, killing eight people and injuring many others. One of the victims was Ms. Thiem Puang Yot, known as Pa Thiem, 57, from Prang Ku district, Sisaket province, leaving her family devastated.

On May 21 at 1 p.m., a merit-making ceremony was held at Don Kratai House in Samuay subdistrict, Prang Ku district, Sisaket province, where the family received compensation from insurance companies. Anom Inthi, director of the Sisaket Insurance Office, and insurance expert Lakkhana Thongsud witnessed the compensation payment.

Phit Insurance Company paid 500,000 baht from the Public Transport Act coverage, while Muang Thai Insurance Company paid an additional 1,150,000 baht from voluntary bus insurance, totaling 1,650,000 baht in compensation.

During the process, many of Pa Thiem's relatives appeared sorrowful, still unable to accept the sudden loss. The deceased had five siblings, and after family discussions, all six agreed unanimously to sign over their inheritance rights to Choon Puang Yot, the youngest brother, as the sole recipient of the compensation.

Relatives reminisced about Pa Thiem, describing her as a hardworking, kind-hearted person who always helped family members. Her sudden departure has caused profound grief to the family.

Residents in Prang Ku district continue to closely follow developments regarding the incident. Many remain shaken by the train-bus collision in Bangkok and are calling on relevant authorities to urgently review safety measures at railway crossings, particularly in high-traffic areas, to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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National

Volvo Halts EX30 EV Sales Following Fire Incidents, Commits to Replacing Batteries for All 1,668 Units

Volvo has halted EX30 sales and will replace batteries in all 1,668 sold units after fire risks were discovered when vehicles charged beyond 70% capacity, with replacements beginning May 25 at no cost.

1d ago Khaosod

On May 21, Prademsai Bunchuayloet, an adviser to the Prime Minister's Office, chaired a discussion at the Consumer Protection Board (CPBBB) office regarding battery issues affecting 1,668 Volvo EX30 vehicles. Representatives from Volvo Cars and affected consumers attended the meeting.

The identified problem is that vehicles cannot charge beyond 70% of battery capacity until a new battery module is installed. Charging beyond 70% poses a fire hazard risk. Thanomsakdi Santhanapredsit, Director of Technical and After-Sales Service at Volvo Cars (Thailand), confirmed the company has halted all sales of the model.

For the 1,668 already-sold units, Volvo has implemented a comprehensive replacement program. Customers can begin scheduling battery replacements from May 21, with the first vehicle replacement scheduled for May 25. The company expects to complete all replacements by August.

Compensation measures include: 1. Battery replacement at no cost within three months 2. Complimentary loaner vehicles during the replacement period to offset usage inconvenience 3. Regarding buyback requests, the company currently has no buyback policy in place, though customers seeking vehicle replacement options are encouraged to contact Volvo to discuss alternatives.

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National

Senate Petition Submitted to Revive Thai Shrimp Industry and Restore Global Market Competitiveness

Thai shrimp farmers have petitioned the Senate to adopt 11 measures to revive the industry and restore Thailand's dominance in global markets, which have been hampered since a 2012 disease outbreak caused production to plummet from 640,000

1d ago Khaosod

Thai shrimp farmers have petitioned the Senate to implement 11 measures across 38 activities to revive the industry, boost production, and reduce costs so Thailand can regain its competitive edge in global shrimp markets. Ekkaphoj Yodpinit, chairman of the Thai Shrimp Association, along with Abhichit Vorgkij and Chupong Luesukhprasert from the frozen food sector, submitted their request to Senate President Mongkol Surasathya at an academic seminar held at Diamond Plaza Hotel in Surat Thani province, received by first vice-president Gen. Krienggrai Srirak.

The association proposes implementing an 11-point action plan previously presented by the Department of Fisheries to enable the Thai shrimp industry to recover and increase quality shrimp production to meet the target of 400,000 tons for processing facilities while reducing production costs to restore Thailand's global competitiveness. Ekkaphoj emphasized that Thai shrimp maintains competitive advantages in quality, food safety, environmentally responsible production methods, and value-added processing capabilities through modern cold storage and export facilities.

Historically, Thailand's shrimp industry was a major economic driver for over a decade, ranking first globally in shrimp production and exports. At its peak in 2010, production exceeded 640,000 tons with export values surpassing 110 billion baht in 2011, generating employment and income for over 2 million people across the supply chain. However, since the early mortality syndrome outbreak in 2012, production has declined to 270,000-280,000 tons with export values dropping to approximately 40 billion baht, resulting in cumulative economic losses exceeding 500 billion baht over 13 years. Competing nations like Ecuador and India have meanwhile expanded their market share globally.

Current 2025 production comprises 260,000 tons of white shrimp and 20,000 tons of black tiger shrimp, with 160,000 tons serving as raw material for processing facilities and 120,000 tons for domestic consumption. Major challenges facing shrimp farmers include diseases such as white spot syndrome, early mortality syndrome, white feces disease, and yellow head virus, which have prevented successful farming operations.

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National

Thailand attracts 130 billion baht in foreign investment in first four months, surging 124%

Foreign investment in Thailand surged 124% to 129.3 billion baht in the first four months of 2025, with the US, China, and Japan leading investment flows.

1d ago Khaosod

Thailand has attracted record foreign investment in the first four months of 2025, with the Department of Business Development approving 438 foreign business permits worth 129.3 billion baht—a 124% increase from the same period last year, according to Director-General Poonpong Naiyanaphakorn. In April 2025 alone, 91 foreign business permits were issued worth 31.6 billion baht, predominantly from investors in the United States, Singapore, and China.

For the January-April 2025 period, foreign investment grew by 75 additional permits (21% increase) compared to the previous year, with investment valued at 129.3 billion baht—up 71.5 billion baht from 57.9 billion baht in the same period of 2024.

The top five source countries for the first four months of 2025 are: 1) United States - 77 businesses (18%), 5.95 billion baht; 2) China - 65 businesses (15%), 25.09 billion baht; 3) Japan - 65 businesses (15%), 24.72 billion baht; 4) Singapore - 57 businesses (13%), 23.58 billion baht; and 5) Hong Kong - 42 businesses (10%), 8.07 billion baht. Other countries accounted for 132 businesses (29%) worth 41.92 billion baht.

Investment in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) reached 134 projects (31% of total foreign investment) worth 49.96 billion baht (39% of total investment), representing a 24% increase in projects and significant growth. Major EEC investors include China with 43 projects (21.1 billion baht), Japan with 22 projects (7.04 billion baht), Singapore with 19 projects (7.94 billion baht), and other countries with 50 projects (13.88 billion baht).

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Police

CIB Launches Major Operation: Raids 23 Locations Across 16 Provinces, Arrests 22 Suspects Linked to Call Center Gang and Mule Accounts

Police arrested 22 suspects across 16 provinces in a major CIB operation targeting an illegal alien smuggling ring and call center fraud network that laundered over 185 million baht through mule accounts.

1d ago Khaosod

The Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) launched a major operation with coordinated raids at 23 locations across 16 provinces on May 21, 2025. Police commanders ordered simultaneous searches in Bangkok, Chanthaburi, Rayong, Nakhon Pathom, Suphan Buri, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Kamphaeng Phet, Tak, Chainat, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Sisaket, Trang, and surrounding areas, resulting in the arrest of 22 suspects.

The investigation revealed a systematic criminal network involved in smuggling Chinese nationals illegally into and out of Thailand. The operation uncovered evidence of organized activities including transportation of foreign nationals, use of multiple vehicles for smuggling, money transfers, multi-tiered bank accounts, and exploitation of corporate entities as financial conduits.

Suspects 1-13 face charges of "conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens and money laundering," while suspects 14-22 are charged with supporting fraud schemes, uploading false data into computer systems, and allowing others to use their bank and electronic accounts for cybercrime purposes.

Police seized significant assets including cash, account books, credit cards, vehicles, gold, land titles, religious amulets, and firearms valued at over 20 million baht. The operation followed the arrest of 42 Chinese nationals in late November 2024 in Poeng Nam Ron district, Chanthaburi province, during which 215 mobile phones were confiscated.

Investigation revealed the suspects operated a hierarchical criminal organization with commanders, coordinators, vehicle providers, and financial supporters. Evidence indicated involvement in online fraud networks, with investigators tracking 181 related fraud cases and 665 transactions totaling over 185 million baht in circulation. Authorities believe the network operates as a cross-border organized crime group using online crime proceeds to fund Chinese smuggling operations.

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Police

Four Men Arrested with 100,000 Methamphetamine Pills Hidden in Pickup Truck

Police arrested four men in Samut Prakan Province after discovering approximately 100,000 methamphetamine pills hidden in a pickup truck they were storing before distribution. The suspects admitted to trafficking drugs from Saraburi Provinc

1d ago Khaosod

On May 21, 2569, police led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam Bunsawm and accompanied by other senior officers arrested four men: Nuttapong (28), Thammaratna (32), Sophon (34), and Siripun (29) in a residential area in Tambon Siracha Krathai, Bang Sao Thong District, Samut Prakan Province. Officers discovered approximately 100,000 methamphetamine pills concealed in a bronze Isuzu pickup truck and a white Honda vehicle used for navigation, along with five mobile phones.

Police had been conducting surveillance after discovering a drug network in Samut Prakan Province allegedly storing narcotics in the residential community. When the two vehicles entered the area, officers approached and conducted a search, finding the methamphetamine pills in the Isuzu truck.

During questioning, all four suspects admitted they had picked up the drugs from Saraburi Province and were storing them in a rented house before distribution. They claimed they were involved in drug trafficking to earn money for family expenses, with some citing sick family members requiring care as their motivation.

Police charged all four suspects with possession of Category 1 narcotics (methamphetamine) with intent to distribute without authorization, and for commercial purposes that endangers public safety and national security. The suspects and evidence were transferred to the Narcotics Suppression Bureau for further investigation and legal proceedings.

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National

Local Government Agencies Face Most Corruption Complaints; NACC Region 1 Reports 'Spec-Locking' and Budget-Splitting Under 500,000 Baht as Top Violations

Local government agencies received the most corruption complaints in NACC Region 1, with specification-locking and budget-splitting under 500,000 baht identified as the top procurement violations, causing billions in identified damages.

1d ago Khaosod

On May 21, 2025, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) held its annual media relations event at Lopburi Inn Resort in Muang District, Lopburi Province. NACC Secretary-General Surapong Inthathawaon led discussions with representatives from government agencies in Lopburi and Saraburi provinces on measures to monitor public procurement.

NACC Region 1 Deputy Secretary-General Wirawat Charoenecham reported that the region has received 666 complaints to date, with most alleging civil service misconduct under Section 157 of the Criminal Code. Local government organizations (LGOs) face the most complaints due to their large workforce presence.

Among procurement-related corruption complaints, the top five violation types are: (1) specification-locking, (2) budget-splitting under 500,000 baht, (3) bid-rigging, (4) use of nominees, and (5) false work acceptance. Damages identified include 2.305 billion baht in real estate, 700 million baht in infrastructure, 497 million baht in subsidies, and 450 million baht in equipment and vehicles.

Wirawat noted that while corruption persists and intensifies, complainants often fear retaliation despite witness protection measures. Subordinates remain fearful of superiors, perpetuating fraud.

State Auditor Suthee Suntraanurak discussed procurement inspection findings, revealing patterns such as bid-rigging between officials and contractors, false work inspections (such as incomplete road construction), unauthorized design changes, and underutilization of completed projects. The NACC is implementing real-time audits and using drones to inspect hard-to-reach or dangerous areas.

Suthee emphasized the need for comprehensive anti-corruption efforts supported by clear databases to strengthen preventive measures and ensure procurement processes meet all objectives.

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National

Grand Mor Lam Carnival Launches in Khon Kaen with UNESCO Heritage Ambitions

Khon Kaen launched a three-day Mor Lam Carnival on May 21, featuring five elaborate processions celebrating the traditional Isan folk music genre as part of efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage status.

1d ago Khaosod

KHON KAEN — The "Mor Lam Carnival: The Charm of Isan Khon Kaen" launched on May 21, 2026, under the theme "Khon Kaen to the World 2027," aiming to establish the province as the global "metropolis of mor lam" and elevate this traditional folk music genre to UNESCO World Heritage status.

On Thursday, five dazzling mor lam processions paraded down Klang Mueang Road in Khon Kaen's municipal district, with performers showcasing elaborate, shimmering costumes and dramatic routines for spectators and judges. The carnival features vibrant contemporary parades, impressive light and sound productions, and performances from renowned troupes including Rabiab Wathasin. All five processions concluded at the Anti-Drug Sports Ground.

The festival runs from May 20-22 at the Anti-Drug Sports Ground near Bueng Kaen Nakhon lake, also featuring local craft stalls and traditional Isan cuisine. Secretary to the Minister of Culture Saratsanun Unnopporn officially inaugurated the event, which drew thousands of devoted fans despite rainy weather.

Saratsanun highlighted that mor lam is a beloved performing art with dedicated fanbases that drives local commerce and boosts the regional economy. Now in its third year, the carnival reflects the Ministry of Culture's commitment to preserving Isan's mor lam heritage. The Ministry is actively preparing a UNESCO World Heritage nomination for mor lam, conducting research and expecting successful Cabinet approval to advance the formal UNESCO listing process.

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