National

IOC Lifts Ban Recommendation for Belarus, but Russia Remains Suspended

The IOC lifted its ban recommendation for Belarus but keeps Russia suspended, citing differences in their Olympic committees' compliance and transparency regarding the Ukraine conflict.

7 May Khaosod

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced the lifting of its recommendation to ban Belarus from international sporting competitions, while continuing to insist on Russia's suspension. The bans on Russian and Belarusian athletes were imposed following Russia's 2022 military invasion of Ukraine, with Belarus providing support as an ally. This prevented athletes from both nations from competing under their own national flags. The IOC's latest statement regarding Belarus emphasized: "The IOC must stress once more that participation in international sporting competitions by athletes should not be restricted on the basis of government actions, including a country's involvement in war or any armed conflict." However, the statement drew a distinction with Russia: "The situation with Russia differs from that with Belarus. The Belarusian Olympic Committee has maintained good standing and complies with the Olympic Charter, whereas the Russian Olympic Committee remains under investigation." Russia continues to face transparency issues in sports. Recently, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced sanctions against over 300 Russian athletes following the seizure of data from a Moscow laboratory in 2019. Previously, some sporting bodies, including the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), had already lifted bans on Russian and Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete under their national flags at the Winter Paralympics earlier this year.

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Regional

Durian Farmer Devastated as Wild Squirrels Ravage Premium Monthong Crop Just 10 Days Before Harvest

Wild squirrels destroyed a farmer's premium Monthong durian crop in Chachoengsao just days before harvest, drilling into the ripened fruit and causing tens of thousands of baht in losses.

7 May Khaosod

A durian farmer is devastated after wild squirrels invaded and damaged premium-grade Monthong durians prepared for export, with only 10 days left before the scheduled harvest. A reporter visited a durian orchard in Moo 8, Ang Khiri Subdistrict, Makham District, Chachoengsao Province after learning of the attack on the premium export-grade Monthong durians.

Thongkham Singkhon, a 69-year-old durian farm owner, revealed that she has been cultivating Monthong durian trees for over 7 years. This year's crop produced excellent quality fruit ideal for premium export, with nearly the entire harvest meeting export standards. However, the harvest was scheduled to begin in just 10 days when disaster struck.

The farm suffered an unexpected crisis after being attacked by a troop of wild squirrels, resulting in complete damage to the durian crop. The squirrels employed a "drilling" technique to check the flesh before tasting the fully ripened durians, immediately degrading the quality. A single tree was punctured by the squirrels in over 10 places, resulting in approximately 70 kilograms of losses.

The farm owner expressed her frustration, stating that while she successfully protected the durians from recent storms through careful effort, she never anticipated damage from wild squirrels. The loss of tens of thousands of baht may not seem significant to outsiders, but for an elderly farmer, that amount represents substantial loss.

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Police

Duck Laab Vendor Arrested for Stealing Australian Beef from Department Store, Claims Intoxication Led to Impulse Theft

A duck laab vendor in Udon Thani was arrested for stealing Australian beef from a department store, claiming intoxication drove her to the impulsive theft to grill at home.

7 May Khaosod

On May 7, Deputy Superintendent Sathit Termtowattakul of Muang Udon Thani Police Station received a report of a theft at a department store in Makhaeng Subdistrict, Muang District, Udon Thani Province. Store security had apprehended the suspect, so officers proceeded to investigate. At the scene, they found Ms. Sing, 38, a duck laab vendor, in custody alongside four vacuum-sealed packages of Australian beef cuts including striploin and ribeye. Ms. Sing admitted to stealing the Australian beef, claiming that she had been drinking with her husband at home but ran out of alcohol. She decided to enter the store and steal the meat to grill and eat with the remaining liquor, thinking no one would catch her. She acknowledged that she may have been too intoxicated and acted impulsively. Notably, her husband had previously been arrested on similar beef theft charges from the same store and had only recently been released. She promised not to repeat the offense.

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National

Premier League heats up: Liverpool face Chelsea, Arsenal visit West Ham, Manchester City play back-to-back fixtures

The English Premier League reaches its dramatic final stretch from May 9-14, 2025, with major fixtures including Liverpool vs. Chelsea, Manchester City playing consecutive matches, and the intense London derby between West Ham and Arsenal. All matches will be broadcast live on Monomax and select games on MONO29, with every point crucial in battles for the title, European qualification, and survival. Special Early Bird subscription packages are available at discounted rates through May 24.

7 May Khaosod

English Premier League football heads into the climactic final weeks of the season with fixtures running from Saturday, May 9 through Thursday, May 14, 2025, delivering non-stop action from the long weekend into midweek matches. The schedule showcases direct clashes between top teams and high-stakes relegation battles where every point is crucial, with complete coverage on Monomax and select matches on MONO29.

The headline match kicks off Saturday, May 9 at 6:30 PM with Monomax broadcasting the heavyweight showdown between Liverpool at home and visiting Chelsea—a title race battle with direct implications for European qualification. Liverpool will look to dominate with attacking pressure while Chelsea need points to maintain their position. At 9:00 PM, three matches take place simultaneously, starting with Brighton vs. Wolverhampton, an attacking duel between two aggressive sides. Fulham face Bournemouth in a mid-table battle where both teams pursue vital points for safety, broadcast on both Monomax and MONO29. Sunderland face the challenge of Manchester United, the Red Devils pushing to secure crucial points in the final stretch.

Manchester City host Brentford at 11:30 PM Saturday night in a critical fixture for the Sky Blues who cannot afford to drop points. On Sunday, May 10 at 8:00 PM, Monomax shows three simultaneous matches: Burnley vs. Aston Villa in a key fight for standings position; Crystal Palace vs. Everton, with both teams needing points to guarantee survival; and Nottingham Forest vs. Newcastle United, with the visitors seeking three points. At 10:30 PM, West Ham host Arsenal in the London derby—an intense battle crucial for both the prestige and points needed to lead the table, broadcast on both Monomax and MONO29.

Tuesday, May 12 at 2:00 AM (early Monday morning), Monomax shows the thrilling late-night clash between Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United, a match critical for both sides. The week concludes Thursday, May 14 at 2:00 AM (early Wednesday morning) with Manchester City playing back-to-back fixtures, hosting Crystal Palace in another destiny-defining match where the Sky Blues must secure victory to keep their championship hopes alive until the season's final day, broadcast on Monomax.

Football fans should not miss complete live coverage of all matches with official licensing on Monomax through the SPORTS STANDARD and SPORTS PREMIUM packages at special Early Bird rates at https://monomax.me/earlybird from today through May 24, 2025 only.

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Regional

Auditor General's Office Investigates Abandoned 200 Million Baht Chong Kacha Canal Project in Nakhon Ratchasima

Thailand's Auditor General's Office has launched an investigation into a 238 million baht landscaping project for Nakhon Ratchasima's Lam Takhong waterway that has been abandoned for nearly two years. The Phase 1 project was completed in late 2024 but left unmaintained as Phase 2 construction has not yet begun, creating public concerns about the deteriorating conditions and potential water encroachment. Officials are reviewing management responsibilities and planning to expedite Phase 2 construction, which aims to create a new city landmark combining water management, environmental protection, and recreational facilities.

7 May Khaosod

The Auditor General's Office launched an investigation on May 7, 2026, into the Chong Kacha Canal Phase 1 landscaping improvement project in Nakhon Ratchasima following public outcry on social media about its abandoned condition and concerns over encroachment on public waterways. Auditor General Montien Charoenpol, along with Nakhon Ratchasima Mayor Dr. Wanarat Chanyunakul and representatives from relevant agencies, inspected the Lam Takhong waterway project area near Suksantaram Temple, discovering that Phase 1 had deteriorated significantly with no responsible agency overseeing maintenance and cleanup.

Phanom Songyaen, Director of Public Works and City Planning for Nakhon Ratchasima Province, explained that the project is divided into two phases: Phase 1, budgeted at 118 million baht from Assumption School to the temple with a distance of 725 meters, was completed in late 2024. However, Phase 1 lacks proper maintenance because Nakhon Ratchasima has not yet assumed responsibility until Phase 2 is 100% complete. The contractor for Phase 2 is still being procured, leaving Phase 1 unmaintained and lacking proper lighting and access points.

Phase 2 includes several components: a 1-kilometer riverbank protection embankment, three bridges across Lam Takhong, architectural walkways along the water and around the reservoir, a public park, and general park improvements. The contractor is expected to be selected soon with construction beginning in fiscal year 2025. The total project value is 238 million baht. Delays have stemmed from flooding issues and the COVID-19 pandemic, which required budget prioritization for Maharaj Hospital's flood prevention efforts. The project incorporates a water drainage system designed to improve water flow and prevent riverbank erosion.

Mayor Dr. Wanarat revealed that upon completion, the project will create a new Nakhon Ratchasima landmark serving as both a tourist attraction and recreational facility. The municipality is also preparing a separate 13-kilometer community wastewater management plan for the Lam Takhong waterway, requesting approximately 700 million baht in support with implementation expected between 2027-2028.

The Auditor General emphasized that all agencies must cooperate between government and local authorities to ensure sustainability and proper management planning. The project was inspired by Korea's Cheonggyecheon model, adapted to reflect Nakhon Ratchasima's pottery heritage identity. The four main objectives are: water management and riverbank protection, environmental protection through wastewater system installation, providing a 2.5-kilometer public recreation and exercise area between Assumption School and Asdang Reservoir, and economic development.

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National

Top Jhan Stuns Two Cities with Perfect 147 Maximum Break, Wins Half Million Baht Prize

Thai snooker star Top Jhan made history with his first career 147 maximum break, winning 584,000 baht in prize bonuses at the Thailand Ranking Circuit 2026 event in Phitsanulok. He defeated Phone Konhuwan 4-1 to reach the semi-finals.

7 May Khaosod

'Top Jhan' Phongsakorn Jongjai Rak, one of Thailand's top cue masters, created a sensation in Thai snooker by unleashing a spectacular and perfect 147-point maximum break for the first time in his life, earning 584,000 baht in prize bonuses. He then comfortably defeated 'Phone Konhuwan' Yanawat Phueak Ghlom 4-1 frames to advance to the semi-finals against Jack Saraburi. Meanwhile, 'F1' Terpchaiyan Unnhoo, the world's 18th-ranked snooker player, smoothly dominated 'Bank Chanyont Sakolnakorn' Porpiya Kaosamphan 4-2 frames to break through the qualifying round of the Thailand Ranking Circuit 2026 snooker competition in Phitsanulok.

The I-EA-T Phitsanulok Cup Thailand Ranking Circuit 2026 finals, the third event, took place at Rattana Grand Convention Center, Phitsanulok, on May 7, 2026. It was the fourth day of competition featuring the final eight players competing in a best-of-seven frames format. The day's highlight was a clash between 'Top Jhan' Phongsakorn Jongjai Rak, one of Thailand's premier cue masters, and 'Phone Konhuwan' Yanawat Phueak Ghlom, a rising star and former Thai youth champion.

In the opening frame, Phone broke with mixed red and white balls, allowing Top to pocket the red in the top right corner and clear the black, then execute a perfect red-black sequence. Top continued through all 15 reds and blacks, followed by yellows through to black, achieving an outstanding perfect break of 147 points—the first of his snooker career. He received prize money totaling 564,000 baht, divided as follows: Niche Cues 200,000 baht, Asia Cues 147,000 baht, 4x4 Pong 147,000 baht, plus 50,000 baht from 'Tong' Sittichoke Thammaraksaa and 20,000 baht for the highest break from the Thai Billiards Association.

In the second frame, Phone Konhuwan fought back with a break of 62 points to level at 1-1 frames. Over the next three frames, Top Jhan remained dominant, closing out the match 4-1 frames with a scoreline of 147-0, 37-61, 67-6, 63-25, 69-29 to advance to the semi-finals against Jack Saraburi.

In another match, 'F1' Terpchaiyan Unnhoo, the world's 18th-ranked snooker player and reigning champion of the second venue, dominated 'Bank Chanyont Sakolnakorn' Porpiya Kaosamphan, scoring a century break of 128 points to win 4-2 frames with scores of 61-50, 128-7, 4-66, 28-75, 75-73, 71-36. F1 advanced to the semi-finals to face 'Tim Kan' Chatchapong Nasa, who narrowly edged out 'Gig Phitsanulok' Santiphap Im Bunsue 4-3 frames with a scoreline of 63-45, 70-40, 0-86, 97-32, 7-85, 25-73, 63-45.

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Police

KNU Destroys Nearly 10 Million Methamphetamine Pills Smuggled via Salween River into Thailand

KNU soldiers destroyed nearly 10 million methamphetamine pills smuggled through the Salween River into Thailand, with Thai security officials witnessing the operation along the Myanmar-Thailand border. The drugs were produced in Myanmar and

7 May Khaosod

On May 7, 2025, Phongpipat Meebunchamasai, headman of Mae Samlaep Subdistrict Administration Organization in Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son Province, announced that KNU soldiers conducted a public destruction of 9.93 million methamphetamine pills near Ta Kae Poo village in Mawlamyine township, Karen State, along the Salween River. Thai security representatives witnessed the operation alongside KNU military and civilian officials.

Mae Samlaep SAO officials noted that the area serves as a border trade zone and transit route from neighboring countries, making it vulnerable to drug trafficking. Both Thai and Myanmar authorities must cooperate more effectively in drug suppression efforts, the officials stated. This marked another major drug seizure along the Salween River smuggling route. While the SAO does not directly conduct drug enforcement, it coordinates intelligence sharing and border security cooperation to prevent narcotics trafficking and protect against the intensified government anti-drug policy.

KNU sources confirmed the destroyed drugs were produced in Myanmar and transported through Karen and Karenni states. They expressed concern that Myanmar may use drug suppression as a pretext to justify military operations in Karen areas. The KNU called for full cooperation in drug prevention and suppression efforts to prevent Karen State from becoming a drug transit corridor and to eliminate the drug epidemic entirely.

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National

Nakhon Ratchasima Detects Disease-Causing Microbes in Drinking Water, Orders Immediate Production Halt and Market Withdrawal

Authorities in Nakhon Ratchasima halted production of Apo-brand drinking water after detecting dangerous Salmonella contamination in 18.9-liter containers produced in March. The manufacturer admitted to using improperly filtered stored tank

7 May Khaosod

On May 7, Nakhon Ratchasima Public Health Office detected microbial contamination exceeding legal standards in drinking water from one brand in Kham Sak Saeng District following routine quality checks. The problematic product is Apo-brand drinking water with Food Registry No. 30-2-03760-2-0001, produced March 26, 2025, in 18.9-liter containers. Laboratory analysis at Medical Science Center 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima confirmed Salmonella spp. contamination per 100 milliliters—a disease-causing microorganism with clear adverse health effects. The product is classified as substandard food, violating Section 25(3) of the Food Act, B.E. 2522, with penalties under Section 60 not exceeding 50,000 baht. The health office warned the public to avoid purchasing or consuming the product. Upon inspection of the production facility, officials found the manufacturer had been using stored tank water filtered through an old RO machine approximately 2-3 months prior due to financial difficulties, without proper production procedures, equipment cleaning, or thorough container sanitation. The manufacturer has agreed to submit a request to cease drinking water production operations, and the health office has ordered temporary suspension of production and will proceed with legal enforcement penalties.

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Breaking

Trang Airport in Chaos as Heavy Rain Causes Ceiling Collapse and Water Flooding Throughout Passenger Terminal

Trang Airport's newly renovated passenger terminal suffered major water damage on May 7 when heavy rain caused ceiling leaks and partial ceiling collapse, flooding the first floor for nearly an hour. The incident has sparked public criticism as the state-of-the-art building, which cost over 1.07 billion baht and only opened last September, is already experiencing serious structural problems. Airport officials have cordoned off the affected area while cleanup operations continue, but have not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.

7 May Khaosod

At approximately 3 p.m. on May 7, heavy rain pounded Trang province, causing rainwater to flood through the ceiling of Trang Airport's new passenger terminal located in Khok Lao sub-district, Muang district. The flooding appeared to stem from a leaking roof. Passengers Arkom Borisoot and Arm Narapong posted videos showing water cascading through the ceiling and light fixtures still carrying electrical current onto shops including the "Roo Rak Samakkhi Phatthalung" social enterprise shop and adjacent souvenir stores. The ceiling near exit 2 on the first floor collapsed and remained flooded for nearly an hour before airport officials cordoned off the area for safety and began cleanup efforts.

Passengers and service users expressed shock and disappointment, particularly because the new terminal only opened in September 2024 with a construction budget exceeding 1.07 billion baht as part of plans to develop Trang Airport into an international facility. The project had already experienced construction delays of four years. Many netizens posted sarcastic comments, dubbing the incident a "waterfall in the middle of the airport" or a "new landmark for Trang," while Trang Airport has yet to issue any official statement about the incident.

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National

Commerce Ministry Launches Fruits Festival 2026, Bringing Premium Durian Varieties to Central Westgate

Thailand's Commerce Ministry launches Fruits Festival 2026 at Central Westgate, showcasing premium durian varieties and tropical fruits from Eastern and Northern regions while directly connecting farmers with consumers to boost sales and st

7 May Khaosod

The Ministry of Commerce's Department of Internal Trade, partnering with Central Pattana Public Company Limited (CPN), is hosting the Fruits Festival 2026 under the concept "Thailand: The Land of Tropical Fruits" to promote Thai fruit consumption and create a direct link between farmers and consumers. The first day saw bustling activity with strong public interest in purchasing Thai fruits.

According to Witthayakorn Maninettr, Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, the event brings together approximately 32 vendors and farmers, particularly featuring prominent fruits from the Eastern and Northern regions including durian, mangosteen, rambutan, longan, and specialty mangoes, as well as melon and avocado. A major highlight is the collection of rare durian varieties from Chanthaburi such as Puangmonee, Gabthongkham, and Longchanbnuri, alongside renowned specialty mangoes including Nang Chang Daeng, Daeng Chakkraphan, R2E2, and Khiao Sam Ros.

The department is also bringing mangoes from Ban Hoeng District in Lamphun at a special price of just 15 baht per kilogram to support farmers directly. Due to an oversupply of mangoes this season, the Department of Internal Trade's efforts to connect retailers and wholesalers have helped stabilize prices in farming areas and improved market distribution opportunities.

Witthayakorn stated that the department is advancing forward connections to pre-market outlets to handle the steady flow of Thai fruits reaching the market, while promoting sales through online and live commerce channels. The department brings durian and Thai fruit vendors to department store events, making it easier for consumers to select and sample quality fruits while helping farmers expand market awareness and channels.

Current export-grade durian prices range from 140-150 baht per kilogram, considered a good level. However, maintaining Thai durian quality standards is paramount, with the government taking strict measures to prevent fraudulent or adulterated foreign durian. The authorities are requesting cooperation from farmers, dealers, and local buyers to prevent counterfeiting, as quality is the cornerstone of Thai fruits.

The Department of Internal Trade is connecting buyers to assist farmers, while damaged and non-processable produce will be handled by relevant agencies to prevent substandard durian from being mixed with quality fruits, following directives from the Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister to provide urgent relief to farmers.

The event also features special pricing promotions and workshops on fruit processing to add value to Thai agricultural products and foster participation between consumers and farmers.

The Fruits Festival 2026 runs from May 6-11, 2026 at Central Westgate's Level 1 promotion area, and from June 6-12, 2026 at Central Pinklao, daily from 10:00-21:00. The event is projected to sell no less than 150 tons of fruit and generate significant income for farmers.

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National

Anutin Reports Cambodia Acknowledges Thailand's Cancellation of MOU 44, Agrees to Uphold UNCLOS Framework

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced Cambodia has accepted Thailand's cancellation of the 2544 MOU and both nations agreed to adopt UNCLOS as a framework for future diplomatic relations. The announcement followed trilateral discussions during the ASEAN summit in Cebu, with both countries committing to peaceful resolution of border issues through gradual discussions at various levels while maintaining national interests.

7 May Khaosod

At 7:45 p.m. on May 7, 2026 local time at the Shangri-La Mactan Hotel in Cebu, Philippines, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Deputy Commander of the Royal Thai Armed Forces General Nattapong Praekaew, announced the results of trilateral discussions between Thailand, the Philippines, and Cambodia held during the ASEAN summit in Cebu. The Prime Minister stated that the Philippine President sought to maintain an atmosphere of cooperation and understanding in the ASEAN region, prompting him to invite Thai and Cambodian leaders for consultations. Thailand brought foreign affairs and security delegations to reaffirm its commitment to peaceful approaches while preserving sovereignty and the interests of the Thai people.

Anutin reported that the meeting received updates on security measures and military cooperation between Thailand and Cambodia in accordance with previous agreements, with no violent incidents reported along the border over the past five months. He explained Thailand's rationale for canceling the 2544 MOU, which Cambodia understood and acknowledged. Both countries agreed that UNCLOS would serve as the fundamental framework for future operations, though practical details still require further discussion.

Both parties agreed to begin discussions at all levels gradually, through the Joint Border Committee (JBC) and General Border Committee (GBC), as well as between foreign ministers, to benefit both nations' populations while adhering to the ceasefire agreement and previously established guidelines to foster peace and mutual trust. The Prime Minister characterized these discussions as a positive signal reflecting a trend toward strengthening peace and stability between the two nations, emphasizing that the issues are governmental matters rather than conflicts between the peoples. He urged all parties to ensure the safety of Thai nationals in Cambodia and Cambodian nationals in Thailand without discrimination.

Anutin called for bilateral negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia based on constructive dialogue free from third-country pressure to prevent escalation of conflict. He clarified that these discussions do not involve border demarcation or border opening, only agreement to begin working-level consultations, with foreign ministry officials and military leaders to continue detailed discussions. The Prime Minister emphasized that Thailand would fully protect national honor, sovereignty, and the interests of the Thai people through careful implementation to prevent losses in the negotiation process.

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