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Police

Chakravarti Police Station Officers Successfully Intervene in Suicide Crisis, Safely De-escalate Situation

Chakravarti Police officers successfully talked down a man attempting suicide at Phra Pokklao Bridge on May 6, safely de-escalating the crisis through respectful negotiation and compassionate intervention.

8 May Khaosod

Officers from Chakravarti Police Station successfully prevented a suicide attempt and safely de-escalated the crisis. Major Chaikrit Pothacha, Major Watcharavir Thammasemai, and other officers including Deputy Chief Sanya Lekklaa, Sub-Lieutenant Krithanai Glianglom, and Officer Jaturphon Bunthuam received reports at 11:45 AM on May 6th of a man attempting to end his life at Phra Pokklao Bridge. Upon arrival, officers found a distressed individual and immediately engaged in careful negotiation, using respectful language to calm him. Through their professional intervention and compassionate approach, the officers successfully controlled the situation and ensured the man received help safely without any tragic outcome.

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National

First Death of the Year: Woman Killed in Bear Attack in Japan as Authorities Rush to Investigate Two More Deaths

Japan confirmed its first bear attack death of 2026 in Iwate Prefecture, with authorities investigating two additional suspected bear-related deaths. The surge in attacks reflects rapidly growing bear populations combined with declining rural populations and food scarcity, with 216 injuries recorded in the past fiscal year alone.

8 May Khaosod

Japan's Environment Ministry confirmed on Friday, May 8, the first bear attack fatality of 2026 in Iwate Prefecture in northern Japan, with police accelerating investigations into two additional deaths believed to be bear-related amid a sharp surge in bear attacks nationwide.

The first victim was a 55-year-old woman who died on April 21 in Iwate Prefecture. Police are investigating two other deaths suspected to involve bears—one body found in Iwate on Thursday, May 7, and another discovered in a forest in Yamagata Prefecture on Tuesday, May 5.

According to NHK television, one victim identified as Kumagai Shiyoko, 69, went missing while foraging for wild vegetables in a mountainous area. Rescuers found her body near a parking area in the forest Thursday morning with facial and head wounds bearing marks resembling animal claw scratches.

Following the incidents, local authorities deployed hunters to patrol high-risk areas for prevention, and assigned police with emergency authority to shoot bears if necessary.

Environment Ministry data shows that between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026, 216 people were injured in bear attacks—a significant increase from the previous year's 3 deaths and 82 injuries.

Scientists attribute the surge to rapidly increasing bear populations combined with declining rural human populations, bringing bears closer to communities. Additionally, a reduced acorn crop last year—a key bear food source—has forced bears to forage in other areas.

Brown bears are found only on Hokkaido Island, where the population has more than doubled in 30 years, reaching over 11,500 in 2023. Japanese black bears are distributed across multiple regions including Honshu, covering both Iwate and Yamagata prefectures.

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National

Self-Employed Workers Frustrated After Pension Drops Nearly 70% Upon Switching Insurance Schemes

Self-employed workers in Nakhon Ratchasima are suing after switching pension schemes caused their monthly benefits to plunge nearly 70%, with some receiving as little as 1,320 baht. Over 100 volunteer lawyers are preparing a class-action la

8 May Khaosod

On May 8, 2025, at the Nakhon Ratchasima Bar Association office, 61-year-old Ponthip Chanyaviphaa from Hua Thale subdistrict, along with nine other affected self-employed workers under Section 39, met with Prathep Charoenphong Anant, chairman of the Nakhon Ratchasima Bar Association, to seek legal assistance for a class-action lawsuit regarding inadequate old-age pensions.

The group alleges that self-employed workers who switched from Section 33 to Section 39 are receiving significantly lower pensions than they should. The problem stems from how the contribution calculation base is interpreted. Workers who previously contributed under Section 33 with a wage basis of 15,000 baht for decades find their calculation base reduced to just 4,800 baht under Section 39, resulting in pension losses of nearly 70%.

Ponthip revealed that she worked as a factory employee under Section 33 before registering as a self-employed worker under Section 39 to access healthcare benefits. However, she now receives only 1,320 baht monthly in pension—insufficient for living expenses amid economic hardship and inflation.

Khwanjai Ung Gerd, 55, shared that she underwent kidney surgery and sought social security protection as a low-income worker, switching from Section 33 to Section 39. Instead of protection, she received a trap: only 1,397 baht monthly—approximately 46 baht daily. She noted that even a basic meal costs 50 baht, making survival impossible. At her age, she cannot find new employment and must resort to gardening and casual labor, potentially becoming a burden on her children and relatives.

Prathep announced that the bar association is mobilizing over 100 volunteer lawyers to gather evidence and establish a fact-finding committee to seek justice. They are preparing to file the class-action lawsuit. Other affected Section 39 workers can join the case by submitting documentation to the Nakhon Ratchasima Bar Association. Although some Supreme Court verdicts have ordered pension payments according to rights, many cases remain unresolved, with affected individuals believed to exist throughout Thailand.

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Police

Man Arrested for Operating Bank Account in Online Cream Scam Under Fake "Je Laeng" Identity, Defrauding Victims of Nearly 1.7 Million Baht

A 38-year-old man was arrested at Bangkok's Chatuchak train station for operating bank accounts used in an online cream-product scam that defrauded victims of nearly 1.7 million baht under the fake identity "Je Laeng." He admitted to being

8 May Khaosod

On May 8, 2025, police officers Abhichon Kankha and Paibuul Phimkamnerd arrested 38-year-old Pradis (known as Tae) at Bangkok Aeon Mall train station in Chatuchak District, based on a warrant from Mae Saruang Provincial Court dated February 6, 2025. He faces charges of abetting organized fraud, impersonation, and allowing unauthorized use of bank accounts and electronic payment systems.

The investigation began in late 2024 when a victim contacted a Facebook page called "Je Laeng" to purchase cream products via Messenger. After transferring payment, the page claimed the victim needed to participate in additional activities before receiving the goods. The victim was added to a Line group where scammers instructed them to make multiple additional transfers, claiming these were activity payments that would be returned once completed. However, the victim ultimately could not withdraw any funds and lost approximately 1.7 million baht before filing a police report at Mae Lak Luang Station in Mae Hong Son Province.

Police traced the bank account used to receive fraudulent transfers to Pradis and obtained an arrest warrant. During interrogation, Pradis confessed that in 2024, while unemployed, a Thai man in his 40s offered him a job as a restaurant server in Bangkok's Bang Sue area. Instead, he was taken by taxi with two others to Aranyaprathet District in Sa Kaew Province, where they illegally crossed into Cambodia. After spending approximately three weeks in Cambodia, Pradis was taken to undergo facial recognition to open four bank accounts. Once he received 9,000 baht in wages, he was sent back to Thailand, where he was eventually arrested. Police are pursuing further legal action.

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National

Chinese Trend: Young People Use AI to Recreate Ex-Partners to Cope with Breakups

Young Chinese users are employing an AI tool called Ex.skill to recreate digital versions of ex-partners from chat histories and photos, sparking debate over privacy violations and potential emotional dependency on artificial relationships.

8 May Khaosod

A concerning new trend has emerged among young people in China: using specialized AI models to create digital versions of their exes. Called Ex.skill, this open-source module lets users upload relationship data—including chat histories, photos, social media posts, and personal descriptions—to "extract" their former partner's identity as an AI chatbot.

These "AI exes" can reportedly mimic tone of voice, favorite phrases, and linguistic quirks of the original person, while recalling shared experiences from the uploaded data. Essentially, the module enables users to "transfer memories from biological neural networks to digital neural networks." On GitHub, Ex.skill's creator explicitly stated the project is "intended solely for self-reflection and emotional healing, not for stalking, harassment, or privacy violations."

However, the trend's growing popularity has sparked heated debate over privacy concerns, emotional dependency, and the appropriate boundaries of AI in romantic relationships. While the stated goal is to help people move past failed relationships, critics worry that emotional attachment to AI could hinder forming healthy real-world relationships. Privacy concerns also loom large, as personal data is fed into systems without the original person's consent.

Despite criticism, some Ex.skill users claim the tool has genuinely helped them achieve closure. One user reported being able to say things to their digital ex they never dared express in real life, while others noted that talking to the AI recreation helped them realize their ex "wasn't that great after all."

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National

Thai Influencer Yok Jittraphan Prepares for Red Carpet Debut at 2026 Cannes Film Festival

Thai influencer Yok Jittraphan has been selected as L'Oréal Paris's first Thai VIP influencer ambassador to represent Thailand at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, where she will walk the red carpet on May 16. The announcement marks a major milestone for the former livestream seller who rose to become one of Thailand's top influencers. Yok will broadcast live from Cannes on May 15 and 17, giving fans exclusive access to the world-class event.

8 May Khaosod

A major surprise announcement has sent waves through Thailand's social media entertainment scene as one of the country's hottest influencers, Yok Jittraphan, is set to make international waves by attending the prestigious 2026 Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France.

Despite previous rumors that forced her to deny involvement in illegal business activities and hit back at online trolls, the latest news has fans buzzing with excitement as Yok officially announced she will represent Thailand as L'Oréal Paris's first Thai VIP influencer ambassador on the red carpet of the international film festival in 2026.

This red carpet appearance marks a significant milestone proving to the world her journey from online seller—who once generated around 10 million baht daily in livestream sales—to Thailand's top influencer now recognized and invited by global brands. Yok Jittraphan has become the first Thai influencer selected by L'Oréal Paris to represent the country on the international stage.

Yok shared her excitement, saying: "This year is incredible for me because it's my first opportunity to walk the red carpet at an international film festival in Cannes as L'Oréal Paris's representative. When I learned about this schedule, I was thrilled and excited. I will do my best in this role. I'm nervous but ready for this."

The schedule runs from May 15-17, with Yok beginning with her first-ever live broadcast directly from Cannes on May 15 to let fans experience the world-class event. The highlight comes on May 16 when she will make her stunning red carpet appearance in an elegant gown, mingling with international celebrities, before wrapping up on May 17 with another live broadcast for fans.

Follow Yok Jittraphan's minute-by-minute updates from the Cannes Film Festival 2026 red carpet on TikTok/Social: yok_jittraphan and cheer on Thailand's first influencer as she represents her country on the world stage in Cannes.

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Breaking

Man Returns to Prison After Release, Embraces Girlfriend Through Bars as Wife Vows to Wait

A former drug convict arrested in Udon Thani province for selling methamphetamine relapsed into dealing just months after his October 2023 release, unable to find employment due to his criminal record. Police seized 800 methamphetamine tabl

8 May Khaosod

On May 8, 2025, Deputy Superintendent Udomchoke Singhakul of Nong Sung Sub-Police Station led officers in arresting Wuthichai on charges of possessing and distributing Class 1 narcotics (methamphetamine and crystal meth) for commercial purposes. Police seized 800 methamphetamine tablets and one bag of crystal meth weighing 37.5 grams from a grocery store front in Nong Na Kham subdistrict, Mueang district, Udon Thani province.

Wuthichai, a former drug convict, had been purchasing methamphetamine from a friend he met in prison nine years earlier. After serving nearly eight years of a 25-year sentence for a previous methamphetamine trafficking case, he was released in October 2023. He initially sought legitimate employment and planned to stay clean, but no employer would hire him due to his criminal record. After two to three months of unemployment, he reconnected with his current wife. When unable to find work, he relapsed into drug use after seeing friends using in social settings, eventually becoming a small-time dealer about two months before his arrest.

During interrogation, Wuthichai confessed he purchased methamphetamine at 10,000 baht per 1,000 tablets from his prison acquaintance and sold individual tablets for 30 baht each. He consumed approximately 10 tablets daily and provided some customers discounts for bulk purchases. He claimed he intended this to be his final deal before being arrested. The crystal meth was given to him by a friend as a sample to try selling, though he had not yet tested it.

Wuthichai raised three fingers in a traditional pledge, vowing not to involve himself with drugs again if released, expressing remorse for his family and society. His wife, who only recently learned he had been dealing rather than just using, cried while visiting him in custody and promised to wait for his release, though he advised her not to wait given his likely lengthy sentence.

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National

Another Case Found! Canned Fish Mislabeled; Supamas Orders Nationwide Inspection Sweep with New Case Discovered in Samut Songkhram

Authorities discovered mislabeled canned fish in Samut Songkhram and launched nationwide inspections after finding multiple factories substituting fish species without updating labels, with violators facing up to 10 years imprisonment.

8 May Khaosod

On May 8, 2025, at Government House, Prime Minister's Office Minister Supamas Isdirabhakdi announced that following an initial investigation into a canned fish factory in Samut Sakhon using raw materials mismatched with labels, she has ordered comprehensive nationwide inspections by relevant agencies. Additional factories with similar violations have already been identified, using fish species different from those declared on packaging. The government is committed to pursuing all citizen-reported leads without exception.

For the newly discovered case in Samut Songkhram, Supamas coordinated with the provincial governor, provincial health office, FDA, Department of Fisheries, and the Thai FDA for immediate investigation. Any factory found substituting different fish species for those labeled will face charges under the Food Act B.E. 2522, with penalties of 6 months to 10 years imprisonment, fines between 5,000 and 100,000 baht, product seizure, and temporary business closure.

The minister emphasized consumer protection as an urgent government priority. Officials will work with the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry and the Department of Fisheries to verify all fish species samples and pursue violators to the fullest extent of the law. Citizens can report mislabeled products or concerns via the Thai FDA hotline 1556, OCPB Connect app, the Consumer Protection Board website ocpb.go.th, or provincial ombudsman offices.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

GCAP GOLD x Butterbear: Thailand's First Gold Market Collaboration Shakes Up the Industry

GCAP GOLD, a major Thai gold company, has launched Thailand's first licensed collaboration "GCAP GOLD x Butterbear" with popular idol Butterbear, transforming traditional gold investment into cute collectible items for all generations. The partnership combines premium gold value with Butterbear's charm, redefining gold savings as happiness accumulation through special products including bars, coins, and jewelry. This collaboration aims to modernize Thailand's gold market and appeal to younger investors seeking both financial value and emotional satisfaction.

8 May Khaosod

GCAP GOLD is making waves in Thailand's gold market with its groundbreaking "GCAP GOLD x Butterbear" collaboration, launching an unprecedented licensed partnership that transforms gold into cute collectible items for all ages. On May 8, 2025, Thanapisan Kuhapremagit, executive chairman of GCAP GOLD, a major Thai gold leader with over 80 years of experience in importing and exporting gold bars, unveiled a major brand transformation into a modern, accessible brand tailored to contemporary lifestyles across all generations.

The rebranding features a major surprise: Thailand's first adorable collaboration project in the gold business, partnering with beloved idol "Nong Nai" (Butterbear), flipping the concept from "converting gold assets" to "accumulating happiness." This collaboration merges genuine gold value with Butterbear's charm to create special gold collections designed for contemporary lifestyles and to fulfill collectors' and fans' happiness.

This collaboration represents more than traditional gold investment—it combines "authentic gold value" with "premium cuteness," creating a special gold collection addressing modern lifestyle needs. Thanapisan emphasized the company's vision to redefine gold as more than just speculation, transforming it into a happiness item reflecting owners' lifestyle and pride through the partnership with Thailand's most influential young idol.

The project marks Thailand's first authentic licensed collaboration, reinforcing GCAP GOLD's vision to transform "gold" into more than just an investment asset, but a "symbol of happiness" fitting every life moment while answering every lifestyle need. Customers can explore special collections blending Nong Nai's charm with GCAP GOLD's legendary pure gold standards, available as gold bars, coins, and jewelry including pendants, necklaces, and bracelets, with new designs rolling out soon.

The project aims to break traditional gold-saving barriers often seen as exclusive or overly serious, introducing a new dimension of positivity through Nong Nai's brightness as happiness ambassador. "GCAP GOLD x Butterbear" becomes a precious gift elevating Thailand's asset-accumulation standards with fashion and deeper emotional connection.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Community

Auspicious News – The Passing of Luang Pu Boonma, Phra Racha Mongkol Wachirdhamma

Luang Pu Boonma Kampheerthammo, a revered forest meditation master at Wat Pa Sihphonem in Sakon Nakhon province, died peacefully on May 6, 2025, at age 96 after decades of devoted Buddhist practice.

8 May Khaosod

On the morning of Wednesday, May 6, 2025, Phra Racha Mongkol Wachirdhamma Wichai (Luang Pu Boonma Kampheerthammo) of Wat Pa Sihphonem in Sakon Nakhon province passed away peacefully. He had been receiving medical treatment for illness at his quarters within the temple, with doctors attending to him, but due to his advanced age, recovery was beyond medical capability. This loss deeply saddens the community. He was a forest meditation practitioner of profound virtue, a refuge for villagers and people throughout the region, whose heart was filled with compassion. He devoted himself to serving Buddhism for many decades. Born on Monday, October 1, 1928, in Ban Kham, Sakon Nakhon province, to parents named Khaeng and Chada Thiam-umphorn, he completed primary education before leaving school to help his parents farm rice at age 17. He ordained briefly to study Buddhist teachings for one rain season, but World War II forced him to return to help his family farm. He later married, had one child, and lived a worldly life until a series of family tragedies—the death of his sister, his mother, and his wife—led him to contemplate mortality and the impermanence of life. Realizing that making merit before death would create support for the future, he decided to ordain. He gave his son to his in-laws to raise and entered Wat Phra Thaduthon in June 1951. He took full ordination on July 10, 1951, at age 24 at Wat Bodhisombhorn in Udon Thani, receiving the ecclesiastical name "Kampheerthammo," meaning "one of profound dharma." He studied with Luang Pu Singh Sahadhamma at Wat Phra Thaduthon, practicing intensive meditation without sleep during night hours for three full months. After his rain season retreat, he traveled to study with revered forest masters including Luang Pu Khao Anallayo and Luang Pu Luy Chanthasaro. From 1971, he spent twenty-nine rain seasons in various forest retreats with his teacher Luang Pu Kamboo Thammadharo, meditating in remote locations known as places of mysterious phenomena, alternating with periods returning to his teachers. From 1980 onward, he permanently remained at Wat Pa Sihphonem.

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Regional

Siam Fluek Posts Farewell to Neighbor as Ratchaburi Face Relegated Phang Nga in Season Finale

Ratchaburi FC chairman posted an emotional farewell to relegated neighbor Phang Nga FC ahead of their season finale on May 10, reflecting on their 16-year rivalry and shared western region roots.

8 May Khaosod

Ratchaburi FC chairman Thanavat Nittikanjana has posted an official farewell message on the club's Facebook page to their neighboring rival Phang Nga FC following their relegation to Thai League 2 next season. Ratchaburi is competing for the 2025-26 Thai League runner-up title with Port FC, currently holding third place with 56 points, just one point behind Port. In the final matchday on May 10th at 6 PM, Ratchaburi will visit the relegated Phang Nga FC while Port travels to Ayutthaya United, with all matches kicking off simultaneously.

In his Facebook post, Nittikanjana reflected on their 16-year history, recalling how he drove from Ratchaburi to watch Phang Nga play at their impressive stadium 16 years ago when he first started in football. After competing in lower divisions, the teams reunited in Thai League 1. He reminisced about the intense derby atmosphere, mentioning that when Ratchaburi visited Suphan Buri previously, nearly 2,000 supporters attended and sold out all away tickets.

"The final game of the season, an away visit to our neighbor," his message read. "Every time we play our neighbors, it holds special meaning—what they call a 'derby match.' I hope this Sunday will be another memorable game for us brothers from the western region. Until we meet again. Good luck and fight on. Thanavat Nittikanjana, Ratchaburi FC Chairman."

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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