National

Court Dismisses Charges Against Tid Sritdit, Former Nakhon Sawan Abbot, in 4 Million Baht Temple Embezzlement Case

A court dismissed embezzlement charges against a former abbot of Wat Nakhon Sawan and an accomplice accused of misappropriating over 4 million baht, finding insufficient evidence of criminal intent after a witness testified the transfers we

5 May Khaosod

On May 5, 2569, the Central Corruption and Misconduct Court dismissed charges against Sritdit Chanthapradat (also known as Phra Tham Vachiradheerakun Sritdit Chanthapradat), former abbot of Nakhon Sawan Province and head of Wat Nakhon Sawan, and Ms. Phuthini Kiewpitaksakul as defendants 1 and 2 in an embezzlement case involving over 4 million baht from Wat Nakhon Sawan. The original charges included embezzlement and breach of duty causing damage.

The Special Prosecutors Office had alleged that the two defendants conspired to misappropriate temple funds under defendant 1's control, with defendant 2 providing assistance and facilitating the scheme. The temple's bank account at Krung Thai Bank required two of three authorized signatories, including the abbot, to withdraw funds.

According to prosecutors, defendant 1 assigned a monk to complete bank withdrawal forms for amounts defendant 1 specified. The funds were transferred through multiple bank accounts—first to the monk's account, then to defendant 1's Kasikornbank account, and finally to defendant 2's account. This process occurred 49 times, totaling 4,965,087 baht.

The prosecution sought penalties under Criminal Code articles 86, 91, 147, 157 and the Corruption Prevention and Suppression Act B.E. 2561, article 172, and demanded the defendants jointly repay 4,965,087 baht. Both defendants denied the charges.

After analysis, the court found that while the facts showed the monk transferred 4,965,087 baht from the temple's account in 49 transactions to defendant 1's account, and defendant 1 subsequently transferred 405,000 baht to defendant 2 in 32 transactions, a key witness testified that loan agreements existed between the temple and defendant 1, with the transfer amounts matching the loan documentation. After offsetting debts between the temple and defendant 1, the court determined insufficient evidence of criminal intent.

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National

Plot Twist! Big Turtle Fires Back at Ton Bangkaew, Exposes Amulet Flipping Scam with Blank Check Schemes

Deputy Police Chief Jarunkiat Pankaew has publicly countered allegations from notorious amulet dealer Ton Bangkaew, revealing a major fraud scheme involving a nine-member ring that defrauded victims of over 5 billion baht using rental scams and blank checks. Investigators have filed charges against Ton and two accomplices, with Jarunkiat denying accusations of receiving a 30% commission and clarifying that Ton voluntarily sought his mediation. A victims' press conference is scheduled for May 6, 2025, as the dispute between the two figures continues to unfold in the media spotlight.

5 May Khaosod

At 3 PM on May 5, 2025, Deputy Police Chief Jarunkiat Pankaew held a press conference at the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Suppression Office to address allegations filed against him by famous amulet dealer Ton Bangkaew at the National Police Office, Supreme Prosecutor's Office, and Phaholyothin Police Station.

Deputy Police Chief Jarunkiat stated that the accusations have caused him damage, particularly as he is near his annual appointment review date for 2025. He reserved the right to consult with his legal team regarding potential counter-litigation, though he acknowledged it remains Ton's prerogative.

According to Jarunkiat, the case began in early 2024 when a woman named Madam Kaeng sought justice after being defrauded by a nine-member amulet dealer ring, including Ton Bangkaew. The group allegedly swindled her out of over 2 billion baht during 2024-2025 through a rental scam involving amulets valued at 10 million baht, using post-dated checks as collateral.

The scheme worked by having one group rent amulets at a certain price with checks, then another group would rent the same items at higher prices with larger checks, creating artificial conflicts. The amulets would then be pawned for 20 million baht, forcing victims to redeem them. Investigators discovered the ring operated this scheme against numerous victims, totaling damages exceeding 5 billion baht. Investigators have charged three suspects, including Ton Bangkaew.

Regarding the widely-reported dispute between himself and Ton, Jarunkiat emphasized it is a separate matter and deferred comment to victims and their lawyers, who will speak on May 6, 2025. He denied receiving a 30% commission for debt recovery and clarified that he did not summon Ton on April 17—rather, Ton voluntarily approached him to mediate.

Jarunkiat denied using coercion or threats, stating he merely asked if Ton was willing to negotiate voluntarily. He noted that negotiations failed when Ton claimed to have no assets, though investigations revealed he possessed property worth approximately 60 million baht. When Ton's lawyer later offered branded handbags and luxury car documents valued below the check collateral on April 24, negotiations again stalled.

Jarunkiat stated he cannot confirm whether Ton accepted other cases but assured police have evidence contradicting Ton's statements. He warned the public that if they encounter this amulet-dealing ring, they should prioritize reporting the dealers, as they operate with blank checks.

Separately, Ton Bangkaew has accused Deputy Police Chief Jarunkiat of pressuring him to pay debts and claims he filed a complaint because he was coerced into debt settlement by creditors, denying there was an official order.

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National

Miss Grand secures Miss Universe rights in five ASEAN countries

Miss Grand International secures exclusive rights to operate Miss Universe pageants in Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Laos, expanding its regional presence across Southeast Asia.

5 May Khaosod

Nawat Itsaragrisil, chief executive of Miss Grand International Public Company Limited, has announced a major regional expansion after securing rights to operate the Miss Universe business in five ASEAN countries.

In a filing to the Stock Exchange of Thailand, the company said its executive board approved the agreement at a meeting on 30 April 2026.

Under the deal, the company has obtained exclusive rights to manage and operate the Miss Universe licence in Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Laos.

The agreement covers national pageant organisation, related events and activities, commercial development tied to the brand, and the right to appoint one local sublicense partner in each country.

Miss Grand said the move strengthens its position in the regional pageant industry and expands its business footprint across Southeast Asia.

The company previously acquired the rights to organise Miss Universe Thailand in 2025.

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Community

Walailak University Offers Free 120-Hour Intensive English Course for Freshman Class '69 Before Semester Begins

Walailak University offers incoming freshmen a free 120-hour intensive English course from May 8-30 designed to boost communication skills and confidence before the semester begins.

5 May Khaosod

Walailak University is organizing a Pre-Semester English Course to prepare freshmen for the upcoming semester with 120 hours of free intensive study from May 8-30, emphasizing practical, real-world communication skills.

Associate Professor Dr. Prakasit Sithithikul, acting dean of the School of Multilingual Studies and General Education at Walailak University, revealed that the university places high importance on developing students' English proficiency. The school has commissioned the multilingual studies department to organize the free one-month Pre-Semester English Course before the semester opens, aiming to foster positive attitudes and emphasize practical communication through active learning methods, with a goal of bringing students to CEFR B1-B2 standard levels.

"This program is not just academically focused, but primarily aims to help students adapt to the university environment and develop a positive attitude toward English," said Associate Professor Dr. Prakasit. "We want to turn fear into love and enjoyment before beginning regular coursework."

The 120-hour curriculum uses student-centered teaching methods aligned with global standards set by the UK Professional Standards Framework, emphasizing active learning and practical daily communication. Rather than traditional lectures, the program promotes small group interaction of 25-30 students with foreign instructors and senior mentors to reduce anxiety about speaking English.

Beyond the preparation course, Walailak University provides comprehensive English instruction throughout the first and second years totaling over 390 hours across eight courses—among Thailand's highest—supplemented by extracurricular activities such as the ChatterBox Café and PLEARN (Play and Learn) program, which allow students to practice conversations with international students in a relaxed atmosphere.

The program concludes with an "English Showcase Day" event where students demonstrate their progress through presentations and role-plays, confirming their increased confidence and readiness before fully entering university life.

"We want all of you to open your minds—English is only difficult if you think it is," said Associate Professor Dr. Prakasit. "Walailak University is ready to support you and create a learning environment that promotes success. We only ask that you commit and are ready to begin this journey with us for your future careers."

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National

Thai Cycling Federation Steps Up Personnel Development with National Coach Training Program

The Thai Cycling Association has launched a foundational national coaching training program in partnership with the Sports Authority of Thailand, bringing in Level 4 certified American coach Robert Huber Jr. as head instructor. The five-day program aims to develop qualified Thai coaches across multiple cycling disciplines to elevate Thai cyclists to international standards. The federation has already sent five coaches to complete UCI Level 3 advanced certification in Switzerland, demonstrating its commitment to building world-class personnel across coaching, refereeing, and technical support roles.

5 May Khaosod

The Thai Cycling Association is advancing personnel development in line with its strategic plan by launching a foundational national-level cycling coach training program. Federation President General Decha Mekarachari announced that the association is conducting its 2025 training curriculum in collaboration with the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), beginning with a foundational cycling coach development and skills enhancement program from May 13-17 at Wasitthi City Hotel in Suphan Buri province. Twenty representatives from member clubs will participate, with the International Cycling Union (UCI) appointing American professional mountain bike coach Robert Huber Jr.—a Level 4 certified instructor—as the program's lead trainer.

General Decha stated that the program aligns with the federation's strategic vision, which extends beyond athlete development to encompass comprehensive personnel development across multiple domains: coaching, refereeing from apprentice to international levels, and professional bicycle mechanic training. This comprehensive approach enables the association to build a skilled workforce capable of advancing Thai cyclists to international standards.

"Our approach to elevating Thai coaches starts with building a strong foundation by recruiting new coaches through programs coordinated with both the Sports Authority of Thailand and the UCI," General Decha explained. "We primarily select participants from our member clubs to ensure we're developing coaches with solid theoretical and practical knowledge in cycling. These trained coaches will serve as crucial drivers in developing the next generation of cyclists for Thailand's national team and sustained success. Currently, we're seeing a significant increase in capable young coaches."

General Decha noted that five Thai coaches—"Coach Tum" (Wissuth Kasiyapat), "Coach Bass" (Pongchong Saiudomsil), "Coach B" (Juthadip Maniphanthae), "Coach Nop" (Adisak Wangsri), and national team cyclist "TJ" (Jay Angsudasavit)—have completed the UCI Level 3 advanced coaching curriculum at the World Cycling Center in Eagle, Switzerland. After six years of training at the world center, they earned certification and are now licensed UCI coaches eligible to work globally.

"The association continuously invests in personnel development, offering multiple courses annually across road, track, mountain bike, and BMX disciplines," General Decha said. "We've also been developing referees with strong UCI support for both national and advanced-level international training. Most recently, BMX cycling referee Katthiya Srisodata passed the theory exam for the UCI international referee program and is awaiting practical examination in June. Once certified, Thailand will have added another international BMX referee to our current roster of one international road and track referee, Nathpong Lohitnavi."

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Regional

Royal Irrigation Department and National Water Resources Office Team Up to Accelerate Drought and Flood Mitigation Plans in Phetchaburi

Thailand's National Water Resources Office conducted a field inspection of major water development projects in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, focusing on the Kaeng Krachan Dam improvement and the lower Phetchaburi River Basin flood mitigation initiative. The Kaeng Krachan project will increase water storage capacity by 53.06 million cubic meters, while the flood mitigation project is expected to protect over 33,000 rai of farmland when completed within a 10-year timeframe.

5 May Khaosod

On May 5, 2025, Chayant Muangsong, Secretary-General of the National Water Resources Office (NWRO), along with Deputy Director-General Dech Lekvichay, Deputy Director-General Thananchorn Suthipis, and other relevant officials, conducted a field inspection of water resource development projects in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces.

In the morning, the team visited Kaeng Krachan Dam in Kaeng Krachan District, Phetchaburi Province, to monitor improvements to the dam's water storage capacity. The project involves installing 1-meter-high folding spillway gates on the existing overflow structure, which will increase water storage by approximately 53.06 million cubic meters, bringing the total reservoir capacity to 763.06 million cubic meters. This will help address water scarcity during the dry season and improve water management efficiency during the rainy season.

The team also inspected progress on the lower Phetchaburi River Basin flood mitigation project undertaken under royal initiative at the Canal 1 drainage gate in Tha Yang District, Phetchaburi Province. The main component involves constructing a 38.852-kilometer drainage canal with a maximum discharge capacity of 350 cubic meters per second. The project is currently in the preparation phase, including preliminary studies, design work, and community engagement. Land surveys and site preparation are underway, though some areas require additional community consultation before formal project approval. The implementation timeline spans 10 years (2027-2036) and, upon completion, will protect 33,690 rai of Phetchaburi province from flooding while providing water for consumption and agriculture in Tha Yang and Cha-Am districts, with a storage capacity of approximately 5 million cubic meters.

The team also inspected construction progress on the Huai Krathing reservoir improvement project in Cha-Am District, Phetchaburi Province, an important water storage facility for agricultural and regional development support.

In the afternoon, a meeting was held at the Irrigation Agricultural Learning Center in Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, with relevant agencies to review project implementation, identify obstacles, and discuss strategies to keep the water resource development projects on schedule.

Chayant stated: "This field inspection aims to accelerate these critical projects to achieve tangible results and enhance overall water resource management efficiency, particularly the lower Phetchaburi River Basin flood mitigation project, which will increase drainage capacity, reduce flood risk, and ensure water security for the local population sustainably. This supports agriculture, consumption, and long-term economic development of the country."

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National

Wannor Meets PM to Report on Southern Border Peace Strategy, Notes Effort Required but Commits to Best Outcome

Wannor Muhammadnor Matha briefed Prime Minister Anutin on progress toward achieving peace in Thailand's southern border provinces, emphasizing that while the deeply rooted problems require time to resolve, his team is committed to building

5 May Khaosod

At 2:20 PM on May 5, 2025, at Government House, Wannor Muhammadnor Matha, Prime Minister's Advisor and Chairman of Palang Pracharath Party Council, met with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister at the Thai Khu Fah Building.

At 3:35 PM, Wannor gave an interview stating he had come to report to the PM on progress made since being tasked with finding ways to achieve peace in the southern border provinces. He said he had done his homework and came to brief the PM.

When asked how the initial push to solve the southern border problem had been framed, Wannor said they had set 2-3 key points: to bring peace to the southern provinces, they must build strong pillars including area security, ensuring justice, and economic prosperity for the people. He noted the PM had tasked the National Security Council with dialogue with those holding different views, and he himself was reviewing what could help achieve peace according to the PM's policy. The PM also has other teams working on this, and Wannor offered his perspective as someone familiar with the southern border region through work with 2-3 previous governments.

When asked if the situation would improve after talking with dissenting groups, Wannor said the problems had accumulated over many governments and would take time to resolve properly. However, if they act with genuine intent and follow the late King Bhumibol's principles that the PM has instructed all parties to implement—understanding, access, and development—they can succeed.

Wannor said he told the PM they would do everything to the best of their ability, particularly ensuring safety, since it is tragic when civilians or security personnel lose their lives and their families lose opportunities. They must maximize safety as much as possible.

Reporters noted that after the interview, the PM walked Wannor to his office in Command Building 2, fifth floor, and took the opportunity to tour Wannor's office before returning to Thai Khu Fah Building without giving any statement.

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Police

Woman Arrested for Illegally Operating Foreign Tours, Selling Online

A 42-year-old woman was arrested in Surat Thani after running illegal foreign tours through Facebook despite having her business license revoked, offering Malaysia-Singapore trips with full services to unsuspecting tourists.

5 May Khaosod

On May 5, 2569, officers from the Tourism Police Division 2, Region 3 headquarters, led by Pol. Col. Naraphon Wattanakrothavee, assigned Pol. Maj. Sarawut Koh Klang and arrest team members Pol. Sgt. Maj. Chalemsak Noinaem and Pol. Sgt. Maj. Nrongsakdi Pinpetchpong to apprehend Ms. Bunyanucha (alias), age 42, on charges of conducting tour business without authorization under the Tour Business and Tour Guide Act.

Evidence seized included 8 tour program photos, 33 photos of the suspect providing tourist services, 1 list of tourists, 4 payment transfer screenshots, and 4 copies of tour business license documents from the Department of Tourism online system.

The investigation began after police received complaints about illegal tour sales through Facebook. Officers discovered a Facebook account named "Bass Withanthraikul" advertising a two-country Malaysia-Singapore tour (April 30-May 4, 2569) under the company name "Bunyanucha Travel Co., Ltd." Checks revealed the company's tour business license had been revoked, yet the suspect continued operating, offering comprehensive services including air-conditioned transport, 4-night accommodations, 4 meals, Thai-Malaysian-Singaporean guides, travel insurance, and Skyway cable car tickets.

Officers arrested Ms. Bunyanucha as the tour bus dropped off tourists at a bus station in downtown Suratthani. She was handed over to Muang Suratthani Police Station, where she faces charges of operating a tour business without authorization from the Registrar.

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National

Thailand Withdraws from 2030 Youth Olympics Bid—Government Admits Lack of Readiness, Cites Massive 5 Billion Baht Budget

Thailand withdrew from its bid to host the 2030 Youth Olympic Games, citing lack of financial capacity and a required 5 billion baht budget that the government cannot commit to while addressing current economic crises.

5 May Khaosod

Thailand's bid to host the 2030 Youth Olympic Games, which advanced to the final selection round alongside Chile and Paraguay for the International Olympic Committee (IOC), faces a critical setback. The IOC dispatched representatives last week to assess Thailand's readiness to host the competition.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Punthajerawkul announced today (May 5) that after presenting the proposal to the cabinet meeting and careful deliberation, the government determined that Thailand currently lacks the economic and financial capacity to host. The event would require a budget of 5 billion baht, leading the government to conclude it cannot commit the necessary funds at this time.

The minister stated the government will not submit a letter of commitment to the IOC by next week's deadline, as Thailand has determined it is not ready to proceed as host.

"We must acknowledge that the government currently needs to borrow funds to address the energy crisis and provide relief to the people," Surasak explained. "Therefore, we are not prepared to allocate the budget required for hosting this competition. Furthermore, contingency plans from relevant agencies remain unclear. I have consulted with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, and we will present this matter to the cabinet shortly for review of our hosting proposal. Once the cabinet reaches a decision, we will send a letter to the International Olympic Committee explaining that Thailand is not ready to proceed, along with the reasons I've outlined."

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National

After Manchester City's Stumble, Supercomputer Predicts Arsenal as Overwhelming Favorites for Premier League Title This Season

Arsenal has solidified their position as overwhelming favorites to win the 2025-26 Premier League title with an 86.53% probability according to Opta's supercomputer analysis. After Manchester City drew 3-3 with Everton, their championship chances plummeted to just 13.47%, leaving Arsenal with a commanding 76-point lead at the top of the table.

5 May Khaosod

Arsenal remains the runaway favorite to win the Premier League this season with an 86.53% championship probability, according to the latest supercomputer forecast from Opta, following Manchester City's shock 3-3 away draw against Everton.

In the 2025-26 Premier League season, as of May 5, most teams have completed 35 matches, while Manchester City and Crystal Palace have played 34 matches.

Opta's renowned supercomputer has calculated the championship probability for all Premier League teams this season based on their current standings.

Arsenal, currently leading the table with 76 points from 35 matches, remains the strong favorite to win the Premier League title this season with an 86.53% probability of winning.

Second favorites are Manchester City, the defending runners-up, who recently stumbled with a 3-3 away draw against Everton on May 4. With 71 points from 35 matches, Manchester City's championship probability has dropped to just 13.47%.

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National

Finance Ministry Appoints Nine Acting Revenue Department Commissioners in Succession Order

The Finance Ministry has established a succession line of nine officials to serve as acting Revenue Department Commissioner if the position becomes vacant, following the recent resignation of the previous commissioner.

5 May Khaosod

The Finance Ministry reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprasert signed a ministerial order effective May 3, 2026, establishing a new succession line of nine officials to serve as acting Revenue Department Commissioner in cases where the commissioner position is vacant or the incumbent is unable to perform duties. The appointed successors in order are: Somsak Anantavat, advisor for tax collection strategy (energy business group); Kriangsak Prasoeng Sukanchon, efficiency advisor; Phinyyu Kamaenidlom, information technology and communications advisor; Salakchit Pongsirijan, advisor for tax collection strategy (financial services and banking group); Jitra Neesanant, tax base development advisor; Phavuvat Luangvilai, deputy commissioner; Suruyut Kobkitpanichphol, deputy commissioner; Khrida Kritiyachotiporpkorn, deputy commissioner; and Khwanruak Suwanram, deputy commissioner. This succession arrangement follows the resignation of Dr. Kulaya Tantittemit from his position as Revenue Department Commissioner before reaching retirement age.

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