Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Breaking

Criminals Rampantly Steal Electrical Transformers, Strip Copper for Sale in Satthahip; Nearly One Million Baht in Damages as Residents Fear Rising Accidents

Thieves in Satthahip District, Chonburi have been systematically stealing electrical transformers and stripping them for copper, causing nearly one million baht in damages and leaving streets dark. The repeated thefts have extinguished streetlights along major highways, creating dangerous conditions that have already resulted in multiple traffic accidents and fatalities. Local residents are demanding police intensify their efforts to apprehend the criminals responsible for these thefts.

30 Apr Khaosod

Chonburi — Authorities in Satthahip District, Chonburi Province are investigating a series of electrical transformer thefts that have become rampant along local highways. The latest incident was discovered near Pa Daeng Brewery on Highway 332 in Plu Ta Laung Subdistrict, where officials found the stripped remains of a transformer that had been dismantled and left behind after thieves removed all internal copper components.

Ekacha Muang Prathum, head of the Satthahip Senior Highway Division, coordinated with Lieutenant Colonel Wuthipong Somjai, superintendent of Plu Ta Laung Police Station, along with Chaanchai Nit Sinthu, subdistrict chief, and the investigation team to examine the site. Inspectors found that the transformer had been removed from its pole and placed on the ground with all copper wiring stolen, leaving only an empty shell. Tools used in the theft, including a saw and wire hooks used to cut electrical lines and disable power before dismantling, were also discovered.

Officials noted that such incidents occur frequently in the Satthahip area, causing streetlights to go dark and creating serious traffic hazards. The same location has been targeted twice before, inflicting approximately one million baht in damages to state property.

Local residents report that power outages happen regularly, particularly on main roads, leading to traffic accidents with multiple fatalities. They are calling on police to urgently arrest the perpetrators, emphasizing that these crimes not only damage government infrastructure but also pose serious risks to public safety and property in the area.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Burnley Part Ways with Parker After Relegation; Jackson Takes Over Temporarily

Burnley has parted ways with Scott Parker following the team's relegation from the Premier League, with interim manager Mike Jackson taking over for the remaining four matches. The club is reportedly pursuing Welsh national team manager Cra

30 Apr Khaosod

Burnley announced the departure of Scott Parker from the managerial position following the team's relegation, with Mike Jackson taking charge on an interim basis until the end of the season. Parker had guided Burnley to promotion to the Premier League this season, but ultimately failed to prevent 'The Clarets' from being relegated, finishing 19th in the table. On April 30, Burnley confirmed the mutual split through the club's official website, with immediate effect. Mike Jackson and his coaching staff will oversee the team's remaining four Premier League matches, starting with an away fixture at Leeds United on May 1. According to the BBC, Burnley is targeting Craig Bellamy, manager of the Welsh national team, as the new permanent manager.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Songthaew Returning from Manora Festival Collides with Sedan at Intersection, Injuring 12 People

A sedan and a songthaew returning from the Manora Festival collided at an intersection in Phatthalung Province, injuring 12 people. Poor visibility and unfamiliarity with the route contributed to the crash, which left the songthaew overturn

30 Apr Khaosod

Police from Muang Phatthalung Station received a report of a serious collision with multiple injuries at the Chon Prathan intersection in Phatthalung Province. Officers and rescue workers arrived to find a Toyota Yaris sedan had collided with a private songthaew, resulting in 12 people injured scattered across the road. Victims were quickly assisted and transported to hospitals.

The sedan driver, 47-year-old Sadit, suffered severe chest injuries along with his wife and child who were also in the vehicle. He explained that while driving home after running errands, a songthaew suddenly pulled out from a side street at the intersection. Unable to brake in time, his car struck the songthaew with great force, causing his vehicle to spin and the songthaew to overturn into a canal.

The songthaew driver, 48-year-old Vishnu, reported that he had been transporting relatives from Chiang Rai district since morning to participate in the Manora Festival celebration at Wat Tha Khae. After the event, while traveling back on a secondary route and approaching the intersection, he slowed down to exit the side street when the sedan suddenly crashed into his vehicle with considerable impact.

Authorities preliminarily attributed the accident to unfamiliarity with the route and poor visibility at the intersection, resulting in 12 total injuries with varying degrees of severity.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Pickup Truck Reversing in Left Lane Hit Head-On by Van at Full Speed; 14 Injured, 1 Dead

A passenger van collided head-on with a pickup truck reversing in the left lane on Khao Lam Road in Chon Buri on April 30, killing one woman and injuring 14 others.

30 Apr Khaosod

At 9:00 PM on April 30, 2026, Saen Suk Police Station in Chon Buri Province, along with rescue workers from the Dharmarajamani Foundation, responded to a collision between a passenger van and pickup truck that left 15 people injured, with 1 in critical condition, on Khao Lam Road near the Guan U Shrine U-turn in Muang District, Chon Buri.

At the scene, officers found a passenger van bearing license plate 1NJ 8751 from Bangkok, flipped on its side with severe damage. All 13 passengers sustained injuries, including one woman trapped under the vehicle in critical condition. Rescue workers attempted CPR but were unsuccessful, and she died shortly after. Nearby, a pickup truck with license plate PB 2437 from Bangkok had its right side severely damaged and two occupants trapped inside. Rescue personnel had to use cutting equipment to extract them. In total, 14 people were injured and 1 person died.

According to witness Nai Aek, a resident who saw the incident, the pickup truck emerged from an alley, stopped in the left lane, and attempted to make a right turn to reverse direction. At that moment, the van traveling straight ahead struck it at full speed, causing the pickup to lose control and flip over. Witnesses immediately rushed to help as people were trapped under the vehicle. The road is a straight stretch where vehicles tend to travel at high speeds and accidents are frequent occurrences.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Police

Witness Testimony Revealed: Hotel Staff Disputes Deception Claims in Police Officer Case

Hotel staff disputes allegations that a Pak Kret police officer deceived a female officer at a curtain-service hotel, testifying the couple appeared comfortable together with no signs of distress or escape attempts.

30 Apr Khaosod

Nonthaburi - A hotel staff member who witnessed the incident involving a Pak Kret police officer bringing a female officer to a curtain-service hotel has come forward with testimony, contradicting claims of entrapment and emphasizing the absence of any distress calls for help.

April 30, 2026 - A progress report details how a female police officer, accompanied by her boyfriend who is a commando officer, filed a report with the case processing division at Pak Kret Police Station after he allegedly brought her to the curtain-service hotel on Sisamarn Road. The female officer eventually sent a message to her mother requesting assistance, prompting her boyfriend to contact police case officers, who then quickly removed her from the hotel and dropped her in front of a shopping mall on Sisamarn Road instead.

Reporters recently visited the hotel where the incident occurred and interviewed Ms. B (pseudonym), the hotel manager. She revealed that initially she was unaware of any deception occurring that night but learned the next morning when a man filed a report claiming his girlfriend had been deceived. After reviewing the complaint form and CCTV footage, she identified a single Mercedes that checked into room 23. When questioned, the parking attendant expressed doubt about the deception claim, stating he observed the woman entering the room before the man, and they were talking and laughing together.

Ms. B questioned why the woman would not have called for help if truly deceived, noting that the parking attendant carries a radio and could have immediately summoned other staff. The hotel has procedures for monitoring all guests to prevent such incidents. However, the woman did not attempt to escape or call for help. Instead, the man later came out to pay and purchase condoms, yet the woman never sought assistance - behavior inconsistent with being deceived. Ms. B believes her staff account is truthful.

Police have already interviewed all hotel staff, who provided consistent testimony. On the night in question, the couple arrived around 7:00 PM, stayed briefly, and departed. Ms. B noted she never expected this to become news.

She further argued that if deception had truly occurred, the woman would have had multiple opportunities to escape or call for help from staff. However, she showed no signs of distress. The parking attendant confirmed his observation of the couple's normal behavior, noting it did not appear to be a deception scenario, as he routinely monitors guest behavior to prevent such situations.

When contacted by phone, the hotel staff member reaffirmed that both the man and woman arrived normally, parked at the hotel as usual, with the man paying and ordering items. The staff member observed them during check-in and noticed normal conversation with no signs of conflict or coercion. The woman entered the room first, followed by the man. The staff member later delivered items to their room twice.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Si Sa Ket Cracks Down on Three Kratom Juice Shops Brazenly Selling Near Schools with Flavored Formulas Targeting Youth

Si Sa Ket authorities conducted a crackdown on three kratom juice shops operating near schools, arresting three individuals and seizing hundreds of bottles of flavored kratom drinks designed to attract youth. The operation targeted illegal production and sales of flavored kratom formulas, which violated regulations prohibiting sales near schools and to minors. Provincial officials emphasized strict enforcement against violators despite kratom being removed from the narcotics list.

30 Apr Khaosod

Si Sa Ket authorities launched a crackdown on three kratom juice shops operating openly near schools with flavored formulas targeting youth. The operation, which began at 3 p.m. on April 30, 2026, was coordinated by Si Sa Ket Governor Anurath Thammaratchajit and other provincial officials, involving health department staff, security volunteers, and local police.

At the first location, authorities arrested a 24-year-old man named Phong while illegally producing and selling kratom juice near a school. Officers seized 74 bottles of flavored kratom juice, 2 cough syrup bottles, 300 plastic bottles for packaging, 5 strainers, and a QR code payment sticker.

At the second location within Si Sa Ket municipality, a 22-year-old man named Chai was arrested with 67 bottles of flavored kratom juice, QR code payment stickers, and shop signage. Authorities confirmed the shop had been continuously selling to local youth near school boundaries.

At the third location, a 23-year-old man named Rach was apprehended with 257 bottles of flavored kratom juice—the largest seizure of the operation. Authorities suspect he operated a larger distribution network supplying youth groups in the area.

Governor Anurath stated that officials had received numerous complaints from parents and residents about shops selling flavored kratom drinks to attract young people. Although kratom was removed from the narcotics list, its production and sale remain regulated by law, which explicitly prohibits sales near educational institutions, to minors, and in illegally mixed formulas. Violators will face strict prosecution.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Police

Noodle vendor killed in motorcycle crash after losing control on bridge, collides with pickup truck

A 55-year-old noodle vendor died when her motorcycle lost control on a bridge curve in Nonthaburi, crossed into oncoming traffic, and struck a pickup truck on April 30.

30 Apr Khaosod

At 6:30 p.m. on April 30, police from Bang Sri Mueang Station and rescue workers arrived at the scene of a motorcycle-pickup truck collision with a fatality on the Bangkruay-Trai Noi overpass in Bang Krang subdistrict, Mueang district, Nonthaburi province. The body of Nusara, a 55-year-old noodle vendor, was found lying in front of a white Toyota Vigo pickup truck. A red and black Yamaha motorcycle was found nearby, both vehicles sustaining significant damage to their fronts.

Dashcam footage from the pickup truck captured the incident, showing Nusara riding down from the bridge at high speed before losing control on the curve. She struck an orange rubber barrier, crossed into the opposite lane, and collided violently with the pickup truck.

Thanedet, 67, the pickup truck driver, explained that he owned a rice curry shop at Bang Sri Mueang market and was driving home after closing for the day. As he approached the curved section before the bridge overpass, he saw the motorcycle descending at high speed, strike the orange barrier, and cross into his lane. He observed the victim attempting to drag her foot on the ground as if trying to brake before she crashed forcefully into the front of his vehicle.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Community

Donate 50 Baht and Receive Premium Japanese Export Bananas at Renowned Temple on National Labor Day

Wat Tha Pha in Ratchaburi distributed premium Japanese export bananas to devotees on National Labor Day for 50-baht donations, with the fruit supplied by Thai restaurant owners in Japan whose shipment ripened unexpectedly in the heat.

30 Apr Khaosod

On April 30th, reporters visited Wat Tha Pha in Ban Pong District, Ratchaburi Province after learning that devotees were gathering to make merit donations and receive oversized premium bananas graded for Japanese export, which the temple distributed to the faithful in celebration of National Labor Day.

Upon arrival, the area in front of the traditional Thai pavilion housing a statue of Khun Mae Chi Bun Ruean Tong Bun Toem was found to be lined with hundreds of premium-grade bananas, each marked with a "donate 50 baht per bunch" sign. Devotees enthusiastically participated in merit-making before taking the giant banana bunches to present to Khun Mae Chi Bun Ruean, then bringing them home as auspicious blessings.

Chai Sripho, a committee member at Wat Tha Pha, revealed that all the bananas were donated by Pim Jai and Lek Kaew Jai, owners of the renowned Thai restaurant Kaew Jai in Narita, Japan. Originally destined for export, the bananas ripened faster than expected due to the intense heat and would have been overripe by the time they reached their destination. The donors consequently decided to offer them to the temple to distribute as merit donations, with an entire truckload delivered.

Weighing tests showed the largest banana bunches weighed nearly 8 kilograms, with smaller ones around 4 kilograms. Premium bananas of this grade typically sell for no less than 200 baht per bunch in the market. However, the temple wanted merit-makers to receive quality goods, so anyone donating 50 baht or more received one bunch of these export-grade bananas as a blessing.

Bananas are traditionally offered to Khun Mae Chi Bun Ruean based on the belief that such offerings bring smooth livelihoods and easy success in endeavors, much like peeling a banana into one's mouth.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the lucky number draw was a highlight for those trying their luck. Committee member Chai drew an auspicious ping pong ball before the statue of Khun Mae Chi Bun Ruean as a National Labor Day gift, revealing the number 547. Local residents quickly photographed and recorded the number, hoping to purchase lottery tickets for the upcoming draw.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Airport Crowded as Hot Actress Zhao Lusi Lands in Thailand, Greeted by Massive Fan Welcome

Chinese actress Zhao Lusi arrived in Thailand on April 30 to prepare for her first major solo concert in the country, scheduled for May 9 at Impact Arena in Bangkok.

30 Apr Khaosod

Actress Zhao Lusi landed in Thailand on April 30, 2569, with Thai fans crowding the airport to greet her. When she appeared, Zhao Lusi wore a bright smile and casual outfit, receiving silk flower garlands from fans as an official welcome to Thailand, and she also gave gifts in return to the waiting fans. Zhao Lusi is famous for hit series including Hidden Love, Love Like the Galaxy, and The Romance of Tiger and Rose. Her trip to Thailand is to prepare for a major concert event offering special experiences for Thai fans. Over the coming week, she will stay in Bangkok to rehearse and prepare for her major solo concert abroad—notably her first concert of this scale in Thailand. Zhao Lusi's visit to Thailand is to prepare and rehearse for the "Zhao Lusi Stay Romantic" concert, scheduled for May 9, 2569, at Impact Arena in Muang Thong Thani. Fans can expect special performances including theme songs from popular dramas, unreleased new songs, and performances specially designed for the Bangkok stage. There will also be exclusive moments for fans to get closer to Zhao Lusi than ever before. Those interested in joining this special experience can purchase tickets through Ticket Melon, Damai, MAISEAT (identity verification required), and Trip.com.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Social Development Minister Nikom Opens Bang Khae Day Care Center as Model for Comprehensive Elderly Care

Thai Social Development Minister Nikom Somklang opened the Bang Khae Day Care Center for the Elderly in Bangkok on April 29, 2026, presenting it as a model for comprehensive elderly care. The initiative addresses Thailand's transition into a fully aged society, with projections indicating seniors will comprise 20% of the population within a decade. The day care center promotes "Active Ageing" by providing rehabilitation services, recreational activities, and social engagement to help seniors maintain independence and prevent isolation.

30 Apr Khaosod

As Thailand transitions into a fully aged society, elderly care is no longer solely a family matter but a critical responsibility for the entire Thai social system that must work together to create support spaces enabling seniors to live meaningful, healthy lives while maintaining connections with family, community, and society.

On April 29, 2026, Social Development and Human Security Minister Nikom Somglang led ministry executives to visit the Bang Khae Social Welfare Development Center in Bangkok and officially opened the Day Care Center for the Elderly, which serves as an important model for comprehensive elderly care. The delegation was accompanied by Chokechai Wichian-Chaiaya, Director-General of the Department of Elderly Affairs, and representatives from relevant agencies. The minister toured various activities and services including handcrafted products by seniors, the innovative Snoezelen room, a cognitive and memory rehabilitation area, and spent time encouraging elderly participants with care packages.

Minister Nikom stated that Thailand has fully entered an aged society with the elderly population expected to continuously increase, potentially reaching 20% of the national population within a decade. Therefore, preparing comprehensive elderly care systems at all levels—family, community, and institutional—is both necessary and urgent.

The Day Care Center opening represents more than just a daytime service facility; it creates a living space where seniors can engage in group activities, receive rehabilitation, participate in recreational programs, and maintain regular social interaction—the core of the "Active Ageing" concept promoting independence, vitality, and sustained social engagement while minimizing time spent homebound or bedridden.

The minister noted that elderly day care centers extend beyond Bangkok, with the Department of Elderly Affairs operating through 12 social welfare development centers nationwide to ensure elderly care reaches all regions. Beyond direct care, these centers play an important role in educating society that elderly care should focus on prevention and health promotion rather than waiting for illness or dependency, as maintaining friendships, participating in activities, and staying connected with family and community are crucial factors in reducing risks of physical, mental, and cognitive diseases.

The minister further announced that the ministry has an elderly fund as a support mechanism for senior activities and plans in 2026 to expand caregiver and elder rights protection programs to cover every subdistrict nationwide, ensuring community-based care while creating employment and building an elderly care system linked to grassroots community economics.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Royal Decree Grants Military Rank and Appointments to Palace Officials

The Thai royal government has issued a decree promoting Colonel Patiwat Fuengpraphatsom to the rank of Brigadier General in his position as a Special Operations Officer under the Royal Security Command. The promotion, announced in the Royal Gazette on April 30, 2026, is effective from April 25, 2026, and was granted under the authority of the Thai Constitution and related military service laws.

30 Apr Khaosod

On April 30, 2026, the Royal Gazette website announced a royal decree granting military ranks and official appointments to palace civil servants. The decree, issued under the authority of Article 15 of the Thai Constitution B.E. 2560 and related military and administrative statutes, grants Colonel Patiwat Fuengpraphatsom a promotion from his position as Special Operations Officer at the Office of the Special Operations Commander of His Majesty the King, Royal Security Command (at the rank of Special Colonel) to the same position at the rank of Brigadier General, effective April 25, 2026.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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