Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Regional

Forest Conservation Debate: Guns Versus Human Rights

A conservation foundation's receipt of firearms to enforce forest protection has reignited debate over whether Tub Larn's forest should be preserved through state force alone or by respecting the rights of communities that existed there bef

3h ago Khaosod

The Tub Larn forest conservation movement has split into two opposing approaches. One extreme conservation camp prioritizes forest and wildlife protection above all, rejecting any human presence or involvement. The other approach maintains that forests must be protected while also respecting the rights of communities that existed there before the park was established, especially when those settlements have clearly developed into towns and deserve recognition of their rights.

The first group represents radical green conservationists, including middle-class nature enthusiasts who enjoy peaceful forest tourism but never acknowledge the lives of villagers on forest margins. The Seub Nakhasathien Foundation belongs to this camp, known for prioritizing forest and wildlife protection and supporting strict government forest enforcement while disregarding forest-edge communities.

Recently, the foundation posted a photo showing it received firearms from a former October student activist to equip government officials for forest protection—a moment perfectly timed with the conservation methodology debate. This image clarifies the philosophy: supporting forest conservation through official authority, state power, and armed force.

Although the firearms were given to officials in the Thung Yai Naresuan zone, the gun image arriving during the Tub Larn debate emphasizes how one camp views forests and wildlife as needing separation from human life. They believe forests and wildlife survive through strong government power and sacred protected-area laws.

This approach recalls how authorities handled the Karen communities of Bang Kloi in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Phetchaburi, forcibly displacing them from the forest, destroying settlements and burning homes, regardless of their ancient ancestry. When community leaders like Billy fought to defend their rights through legal channels, they disappeared without a trace.

This thinking-foundation suggests applying strict National Parks Department authority to protect Tub Larn's forest boundaries without reducing protected zones or restoring community rights. Villagers faced this logic: however long you lived here before the park existed, once it became a national park, state authority must drive you out completely to live elsewhere.

When the Parks Department chose to adjust boundaries and restore rights to pre-existing communities, this camp rejected it completely. They launched campaigns claiming the forest will disappear, be destroyed, wildlife will have no home. But whether original residents will have homes? That doesn't matter to them.

The difference between providing firearms to strengthen government authority and finding solutions that honor human rights, allowing people and forests to coexist—these conservationists could not be more different.

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National

Buriram United Names New Football Chief Executive

Buriram United Football Club appointed Chonnachoke Chidchob as Vice President of Executive Affairs and Head of Football Operations, tasking him with strategic management and elevating the club to Asian prominence. The club also named Siwaru

3h ago Khaosod

Buriram United Football Club has officially appointed Chonnachoke Chidchob as Vice President of Executive Affairs and Head of Football Operations. As Vice President of Executive Affairs, Chidchob will be responsible for overseeing the club's overall management, establishing strategic direction, and implementing plans to drive the organization toward its established goals. Simultaneously, as Head of Football Operations, he will manage and develop the club's football programs to elevate Buriram United to become a leading Asian football club in accordance with the organization's vision and long-term objectives.

The club has also officially appointed Siwaruk Thetsueang as Senior Director of Youth Development. In this position, Thetsueang will oversee and structure the club's youth development system, instill professional values, and develop young athletes to advance to the senior team in line with the club's long-term goals.

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National

Chatree Band Announces Full Concert After Sold-Out Meet & Greet

Legendary band Chatree announced a full concert in September following their sold-out meet-and-greet on June 27, reuniting core members to celebrate over four decades of hits.

3h ago Khaosod

The "Pom Yoon Pui Chatree Meet & Greet #2" event held on June 27 at Mr. Fox Livehouse received overwhelming response from fans nationwide, with tickets selling out in record time. Core band members Pom Kittawut Sataantriap, Yoon Prayoon Methitharmnart, and Pui Anusorn Kamkasem reunited with returning member Daeng Narathip Kanchanavatana to take fans on a nostalgic journey through legendary songs and behind-the-scenes stories spanning over four decades. The atmosphere was filled with smiles, warmth, and the enduring bond between the band and their devoted audience. The evening's highlight came with the announcement of "Chatree In Concert: Maya World," a full-scale concert scheduled for Sunday, September 20, 2025, marking the band's significant return with timeless hits that will transport fans back to cherished memories. For fans who still sing along to classics like "Jaak Pai London," "Fan Chun," and "Athithan Rak," this is a must-see concert. Fashion Island members enjoy an exclusive 15% ticket discount through the Snack Box Showbiz page from today through July 18, 2025, or until the promotion limit is reached.

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Police

Officials Arrested In Illegal ID Card Scheme For Myanmar Workers

Authorities arrested a district officer in Suratthani Province for illegally issuing ID cards to Myanmar migrant workers as part of Operation Closing Shadow, a crackdown on corrupt officials facilitating human trafficking.

3h ago Khaosod

On July 3, 2025, at the Suratthani Provincial Police Headquarters, high-ranking officials including the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Provincial Administration, Deputy National Police Commander, and the National Anti-Money Laundering Committee announced Operation Closing Shadow to crack down on corrupt officials issuing illegal identification cards to Myanmar migrant workers.

The investigation originated from immigration police arrests of human trafficking brokers in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province on September 24, 2024. Investigators discovered suspects carrying dual identity documents: Myanmar nationality cards (pink ID #00) and registration-status-free cards (white ID #0). The Department of Provincial Administration's task force uncovered that a district officer in Don Sak, Suratthani Province, issued approximately 240 unauthorized registration-free cards between 2021-2022.

After coordinating with the National Police transnational crime suppression center, officials matched 12 individuals' fingerprints and facial features to legitimate Myanmar passport holders. Authorities filed charges against the corrupt official, brokers, landlords, and at least 12 Myanmar workers, resulting in 17 arrest warrants.

The Department of Provincial Administration has immediately revoked all 12 suspect records, suspended registry activities for all 240 cases, and placed the implicated official on administrative leave pending serious disciplinary investigation. The Anti-Money Laundering Office will investigate financial trails and seize assets.

The Permanent Secretary pledged continuous investigation and vowed decisive action—both disciplinary and criminal—against any implicated officials, with immediate administrative suspension. He stated the department will not protect wrongdoers and will ensure all violators face maximum legal penalties.

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Breaking

US Influencer's 2-Year-Old Daughter Diagnosed With Advanced Cancer

American influencer Nara Smith revealed her 2-year-old daughter Vimsy Lou has been diagnosed with advanced cancer that has already spread, requiring immediate chemotherapy treatment.

3h ago Khaosod

On July 4, prominent 24-year-old American influencer Nara Smith shocked her followers by revealing through Instagram that her 2-year-old daughter Vimsy Lou has been diagnosed with cancer. The family first noticed physical abnormalities on their daughter's body and rushed her to the emergency room, but initial doctors could not identify the cause. A pediatrician recommended further evaluation at a specialized children's hospital.

Smith described the moment when the pediatrician fell silent after examining her daughter, saying she felt her maternal instinct warning her that something serious was wrong. After undergoing X-rays, ultrasounds, and a biopsy, doctors confirmed the cancer diagnosis and revealed the disease had already metastasized, necessitating urgent chemotherapy. Smith did not disclose the specific type of cancer or current details about her daughter's condition.

Smith, who is married with four children total, acknowledged the immense challenge of caring for her sick daughter while raising her other children, managing postpartum recovery, and maintaining her work. She has reduced her social media content posting in recent months due to these demands.

Connecting with other parents facing similar situations has helped Smith feel less alone and provided emotional strength. Despite the daily difficulties, she continues to do her best as a mother. Smith shared her story to encourage other families and urge people to get health screenings if they notice any abnormalities, emphasizing that early cancer detection can improve treatment outcomes.

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Breaking

Foam Waste Floods Village, Collapses Wall in Chonburi

Heavy rain washed foam waste from a nearby waste-sorting site into a Sriracha village Saturday, collapsing a residential wall and flooding homes in Chonburi's Boonraksa View 2 community.

4h ago Khaosod

CHONBURI — A village wall in Sriracha district collapsed Saturday morning after heavy overnight rain washed large amounts of foam waste from a nearby waste-sorting site into a residential area.

The incident occurred at Boonraksa View 2 village in Moo 7, Bo Win subdistrict. Local officials said floodwater carried foam debris, believed to come from old refrigerators and freezers, from a waste-sorting area next to the village into the housing estate, scattering the material across the area and affecting several households.

Officials from the Bo Win Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and related agencies inspected the scene, cleared foam debris and opened drainage channels to ease the flooding. Authorities are also preparing to survey the damage.

Arthit Inprasit, chairman of Boonraksa View 2 village, said the land behind the village is privately owned and has been divided into rental plots. He said a foreign operator had rented part of the area long-term to run a waste-sorting business involving old refrigerators and freezers.

According to Arthit, after valuable parts were removed from the appliances, large amounts of foam waste were left piled up on the site. When heavy rain hit the area overnight, floodwater swept the foam into a large mass, which pressed against the rear wall of the village until it collapsed along a long section.

Water then poured into residents' homes. At least one house was damaged, while several households were affected by floodwater and foam debris entering their living areas.

Arthit said the village has faced regular flooding during heavy rain in the past, but nothing as severe as this incident. He believes the large accumulation of foam waste was a major factor, as the material absorbed water and was pushed by the flood current with enough force to damage the wall.

Residents are calling on authorities to investigate the waste-sorting operation, including whether its waste storage and disposal practices comply with the law. They also urged officials to assess the damage and introduce measures to prevent a similar incident from happening again.

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Regional

Black Wastewater Pollutes Jomtien Beach After Heavy Rain

Black wastewater from a drainage pipe polluted Jomtien Beach in Pattaya after heavy rain on Saturday, with boat operators warning the recurring problem damages tourism and their livelihoods.

4h ago Khaosod

Heavy rain in Chonburi sparked environmental alarm on Saturday when black wastewater was observed pouring from a drainage pipe directly into the sea at Jomtien Beach in Pattaya. The incident gained wider attention after Chonburi MP Thanatharn Pramoonpong posted video footage of the dark water discharge, prompting concerns about water pollution and damage to Pattaya's tourism image.

Inspectors who visited the area near tourist boat ramp A, across from Siam Commercial Bank on Jomtien Beach, confirmed that black water continued flowing from the drainage pipe into the sea. Though the discharge volume decreased as rainfall subsided, local boat operators reported the problem occurs regularly during heavy downpours, eroding the boat ramp and complicating vessel movements.

Operators have urged Pattaya City and relevant agencies to implement a lasting fix, warning that repeated discharges harm both their livelihoods and the reputation of one of the city's premier tourist destinations.

The wastewater incident was not isolated. Heavy rain also caused structural damage elsewhere in Chonburi when a partially constructed factory wall in Si Racha district collapsed, releasing large quantities of foam packaging waste into surrounding neighborhoods. Residents reported foam fragments scattered across streets and drainage systems, sparking concerns over environmental damage and demands for cleanup and investigation of the construction site.

Authorities have faced pressure to investigate both incidents and implement preventive measures ahead of future rainfall.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Community

Jeff Discusses Concert Viral Moments, Warns Bogie to Slow Down

Jeff Satur discussed viral moments from the CLUB 30 CONCERT, revealing how the cast handled unpredictable on-stage situations and playfully warning bandmate Bogie Lion to slow down during their energetic performances.

4h ago Khaosod

The "CLUB 30 CONCERT" featuring top artists Ink Warunthorn, Bogie Lion, Jeff Satur, and Nont Thanawat has wrapped, yet the memorable on-stage moments remain the talk of social media. Jeff Satur recently attended an Olay product launch event as Friends of Olay Thailand and opened up about the viral concert moments, updating fans on what transpired.

When asked about handing the microphone to Nont Thanawat, Jeff explained: "On stage, things happen unpredictably. It's never exactly like rehearsal. Things constantly surprise you." He acknowledged that the two nights were completely different from each other. Comments praised how the team handled unexpected moments, and Jeff reflected on his experience: "We've faced challenges, struggles, and we've dealt with them alone, but these people are all our friends. Everyone had slip-ups, but because we're all professionals, it's hard to notice. Only those who rehearsed with us would know what's supposed to happen. As an experienced artist, I understand how to navigate these situations smoothly. I've dealt with dead microphones and broken equipment many times—it becomes a skill in managing problems on the spot."

When a viral moment sparked fans to cheer for Nont, Jeff said: "It's the cuteness of my friends being together. I live my normal life while they play their fan role. As for Captain Bogie steering the boat—he's paddling so fast! I'd tell him to slow down a bit if I saw him."

On the chemistry between him and Nont, Jeff laughed: "We've talked about it and it's funny." He recalled being pushed toward Nont by Bogie, saying: "I didn't know where he was taking me. I thought I'd blocked the wrong way, but instead he hit me with a paddle."

When asked if he'd stop his friends, Jeff smiled: "If I tell them to stop, they won't listen anyway. It's cute and funny moments, and many people enjoy when all five of us are together. It's nice to play with friends sometimes." Regarding future reunions, he noted: "We can't avoid each other. We'll keep running into each other. We already met up at a recent marathon event and took themed photos. We're bound to keep seeing each other."

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Police

PM Pays Respects To Seven Monks Killed In Truck Collision

Prime Minister Anuthut Chaiyaweerakul led officials in a water ablution ceremony for seven Buddhist monks killed by a pickup truck in Mukdahan province on July 2, pledging government support for affected families and communities.

4h ago Khaosod

Prime Minister Anuthut Chaiyaweerakul led a delegation including Culture Minister Sabeeda Taiyasakul and other high-ranking government officials to participate in a water ablution ceremony for seven monks at Wat Ban Nam Khun in Ubon Ratchathani province on July 4, 2025. The monks—Yothin Wanasri, Rochat Thongburan, Nikum Angkap, Sakda Sila, Samruay Rawang, Chaisonn Nanthasingh, and Yuth Phongsawiseth—died when they were struck by a pickup truck while on an alms-round pilgrimage near Ban Na Sineuan village in Mukdahan province on July 2. The PM placed wreaths, expressed sympathy to grieving families, and presented financial aid to those affected. He pledged the government's full support and instructed relevant agencies to expedite assistance, rehabilitation, and legal proceedings. After the ceremony, the PM met with residents from border communities affected by recent Thai-Cambodian tensions, listening to their concerns about border checkpoint closures and cassava prices before returning to Bangkok.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

Thai Security Warns Against Alleged BRN Leader's Ceasefire Claims

Thai security officials warned the public to be cautious about an alleged BRN commander's ceasefire proposal in Narathiwat, saying they cannot verify the person's identity or authority. Authorities stated they will only engage through offic

4h ago Khaosod

On July 4, 2025, Lieutenant Colonel Ekavrit Chobchuphol, deputy spokesman for ISOC Region 4 Forward, announced that the command became aware through media reports of a person claiming to be a BRN armed forces commander in Narathiwat province who proposed conditions for disarmament and military withdrawal. However, authorities stated they currently lack information to verify the person's identity, status, or command authority, and therefore urge caution in assessing such claims. ISOC Region 4 Forward noted that Thailand has established mechanisms and channels for peacebuilding under a clear legal and policy framework. The command stated it is prepared to work through official channels with anyone willing to renounce violence, re-enter the legal process, or provide useful information to resolve the situation, while upholding the rule of law, fairness, and protection of all parties' rights. Authorities emphasized that lasting peace requires genuine cessation of violence and concrete action, not merely claims or one-sided media communication. ISOC Region 4 Forward will continue fulfilling its duty to protect public safety, enforce laws against all offenders without discrimination, and support all approaches leading to reduced violence and peacebuilding under the constitution, law, and national interest. The command urged the public to follow information from credible state agencies and news sources, and to exercise critical judgment to avoid misinformation and misunderstanding of the situation.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Police

Couple Held Without Bail In Heroin Trafficking Case

A husband-and-wife team was denied bail in Bangkok Criminal Court after being charged with operating a heroin smuggling operation, with investigators requesting a 12-day remand to interview additional witnesses.

4h ago Khaosod

A husband-and-wife team charged with operating a heroin smuggling operation appeared in Bangkok Criminal Court on July 4, 2569, without posting bail. Nai Atit and Nang Tat Saporn were brought before the court by investigators from the Special Cases Investigation Division on charges of jointly distributing Class 1 narcotics for commercial purposes without authorization.

Both suspects confessed to the allegations presented by investigators but denied any connection to a larger drug trafficking network. They also denied involvement in heroin smuggling cases linked to a female flight attendant.

Investigators opposed bail, arguing they need to interview 30 additional witnesses and warning that the suspects pose a flight risk and could tamper with evidence. Their detention order expires on July 6. Authorities requested a 12-day remand from July 4 to July 15, which the court granted. Following the court hearing, neither Nai Atit nor Nang Tat Saporn filed any bail applications. Authorities transferred both suspects to Bangkok Special Prison and Bangkok Women's Correctional Institution respectively.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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