Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Khao Kala: Fact or Fiction? Exploring Theories and Beliefs About Universal Mysteries

A new Thai film explores UFO sightings and extraterrestrial beliefs centered on Nakhon Sawan's Khao Kala, blending scientific theory with spiritual and conspiracy accounts to elevate the country's mystery cinema internationally.

29 Apr Khaosod

Director Yangtirk-Thanadej Ramsombat and producer Toffee-Sivadol Chanthaensawi from Plasitao Films present a film exploring beliefs about extraterrestrials at Khao Kala through accounts and experiences of true believers. The project aims to elevate Thai mystery cinema to international standards with compelling visuals and thought-provoking content.

Yangtirk reveals that "Khao Kala is a Thai film based on true events and legends about aliens and UFOs in the Khao Kala area of Nakhon Sawan Province. It features multiple fascinating case studies arising from a blend of spiritual beliefs, conspiracy theories, and scientific interpretations. The film pits scientific theory against mysterious beliefs and international-standard horror, transforming Khao Kala—famous as Thailand's UFO checkpoint—from legend into modern mystery. This is not science fiction, but rather beliefs, mysteries, and countless questions waiting for everyone to investigate."

Is Khao Kala "real" or "a hoax"? The debate continues, but you don't have to believe—just investigate all the mysteries and enigmas yourself when the film opens on May 7th at cinemas nationwide.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Royal Rainmaking Department Chief Resigns Early, Denies Allegations of Aircraft Maintenance Budget Misconduct

The director-general of Thailand's Royal Rainmaking Department resigned early, denying allegations of aircraft maintenance budget misconduct while claiming he preserved documentation of suspicious contact from a minister's nephew.

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 29, 2025, Rachan Silparaiya, Director-General of the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department, announced his resignation, which takes effect from June 23, 2025—earlier than his scheduled retirement on August 7, 2025, when he turns 60. He consulted with his family and decided to step down to preserve his dignity.

Rachan stated he accepted his recent reassignment to Inspector position as part of management's prerogative, but emphasized his resignation was not a surrender to pressure. Regarding unusual contact attempts from a minister's nephew claiming to discuss aircraft maintenance issues and arranging meetings outside government offices, Rachan confirmed he considers this suspicious and has preserved all documentation.

He defended the 2025 budget review conducted by Agriculture Minister Suriya Jurungruangkij before taking office as routine procedure. The Royal Rainmaking Department operates over 30 aircraft requiring maintenance oversight. All procurement processes follow transparent and auditable procedures.

Rachan acknowledged growing up in politically-connected positions, starting as a minister's chief of staff before becoming deputy director. Despite working closely with various administrations, he emphasized his duty as a professional civil servant is to implement policies within legal and ethical boundaries—with clear red lines against anything illegal or improper.

He stated he maintains professional independence and welcomes any investigation, confident in his integrity. However, he affirmed that resignation is his clear choice when unable to stand by his principles. Rachan also expressed concern about rising fuel costs, which have increased from 39 baht to over 53 per liter, potentially impacting operations, though he reports no progress on solutions.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
National

Crowds Flock to See Two-Headed Calf Still Alive; Lottery Number Analysis for This Draw

A two-headed calf born to a Brahman cow at a livestock farm in Khon Kaen Province is alive and nursing, prompting villagers to convert its features into lottery numbers for this week's draw. The veterinarian attributes the rare condition to

29 Apr Khaosod

Villagers are abuzz about a two-headed calf, converting its features into lottery numbers for this week's draw. The mother cow "Bua Ngen" has just given birth for the first time, and after a veterinarian assisted with the delivery, the two-headed calf survived and remains alive. The owner intends to provide the best care possible.

On April 29, 2569, reporters received word that villagers have been visiting the two-headed calf at Amphorn Thai Buffalo Farm in Ban Non Phayom, Muang Wan Subdistrict, Nam Phong District, Khon Kaen Province. After the mother cow delivered, the calf was discovered to have two heads, and locals analyzed its features into lottery numbers, hoping to win the May 2 draw.

Nai Preecha, 50, owner of Amphorn Thai Buffalo Farm, revealed that he works as a livestock farmer with 30 cattle and buffalo, including both miniature buffalo and beautiful varieties. He buys, sells, and trades cattle at various markets, a practice known locally as "nai hoi." The female cow that delivered the two-headed calf, named "Bua Ngen," is a four-year-old Brahman breed experiencing her first birth. She was scheduled to deliver on April 28. Because the delivery appeared difficult and it was her first time, Preecha called a veterinarian to assist.

"After delivery, I discovered it was female but with abnormalities: two heads, four ears, two mouths, two noses, separated from each other with faces pointing right and left. Both heads have open eyes and are alive. The calf can drink milk—I milk the mother and bottle-feed both heads, and they both suckle equally well. After posting about the birth on Facebook, people started calling. Some wanted to own it, while others asked for lottery numbers. I plan to care for this calf as best I can, raising it naturally for however long it remains with us."

Jakrapong Siang-dee, known as Doctor Wave, the veterinarian who assisted with Bua Ngen's delivery, explained that the two-headed condition resulted from gene mutation during the calf's development, causing abnormal organ development. In the case of true twins born from a single egg, if the embryo begins to separate to form twins but the process stalls or separation is incomplete, a condition called "conjoined twins" occurs—in this case, joined at the head. However, another possible cause could be chemicals or toxins the mother ingested during pregnancy, which may have affected the calf's cell division.

Meanwhile, villagers who came to watch the two-headed calf nursing analyzed the lottery numbers for the May 2 draw, reasoning that a calf with two heads, four legs, four ears, and two mouths would likely be 24 or 42.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Faye-Kan-Top Crowned as Youth Role Models in New "Chill Everyday – Afterwork" Campaign

Chang Cold Brew Cool Club launches "Chill Everyday – Afterwork" campaign featuring presenters Faye, Kan, and Top as youth role models promoting post-work relaxation for Gen Z.

29 Apr Khaosod

Chang Cold Brew Cool Club (CBCC), the leading club for chill enthusiasts, is taking its appeal to the next level for Gen Z with a new communication campaign called "Chill Everyday – Afterwork."

The brand has enlisted three cool presenters—Faye-Phatthr, Kan Chachanant, and Top Thosapon—to invite younger generations and Gen Z to easily "unlock the chill cool world" after work with the concept of "closing work mode, opening chill mode."

The campaign also features chill companions like Art Maroot, Mind Naphassai, and Gen Z personalities including Prem Warut and Dear Nyadha, who created post-work chill moments on the runway for a special Collection Apparel fashion show launching the Chang Cold Brew Cool Club x Carnival Golf collection, designed for golf lifestyle enthusiasts and the general public.

The "Chill Everyday – Afterwork" advertising series features the three cool friends Faye-Kan-Top who embody the "Work Hard Play Harder" mentality, representing young people's behavior as they seek post-work chill time as a space to recharge and spark creative ideas. The campaign uses POST-IT as a key device symbolizing the moment when ideas emerge during the most relaxing times.

During the event, senior presenter Faye shared his connection with the brand, while Kan revealed his impression of launching the new campaign. Top, Faye's close brother joining for the first time, confirmed that the three young men have solidly established themselves as chill and cool role models.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Office of Fiscal Policy Points to Continuous Export Growth for 21 Months, Supporting Private Consumption Recovery

Thailand's exports grew for the 21st straight month in March 2025, supporting economic recovery despite weakening tourism and consumer confidence pressured by geopolitical tensions and rising oil prices.

29 Apr Khaosod

The Office of Fiscal Policy, headed by Winit Wisetsuwannaphum, revealed that Thailand's economic and fiscal conditions in March 2025 are being supported by continuous export growth marking the 21st consecutive month of expansion, coinciding with improved private consumption in durable goods, though the tourism sector has slowed from the previous month. Authorities are monitoring oil prices and geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, which could impact Thai manufacturing supply chains.

Private consumption indicators show improvement compared to the same period last year, particularly in durable goods consumption. New car registrations increased 16.6% year-on-year and 17.5% month-on-month after seasonal adjustment, while motorcycle registrations rose 6.8% year-on-year and 2.0% month-on-month after seasonal adjustment. However, consumer confidence declined to 51.8 from 53.7 the previous month, pressured by concerns over geopolitical tensions, particularly between the US, Israel, and Iran, as well as rising global oil prices that threaten household living costs. Farmers' real income fell by 4.1%.

Private investment indicators improved from the previous month, with private sector investment in machinery and equipment reflected in capital goods imports increasing 23.2% year-on-year and 0.6% month-on-month after seasonal adjustment.

Export values expanded year-on-year, reaching $35,157.1 million in March, marking the 21st consecutive month of growth at 18.7%. Excluding oil and gold-related products, exports grew 19.3%, driven by electronics expanding 43.8%, minerals and fuels up 26.6%, and electrical appliances up 14.3%. By market, exports to India surged 140.6%, Australia grew 56.2%, the US expanded 41.9%, and ASEAN (5) increased 25.0%, though Middle Eastern markets declined 57.1% and China fell 1.1%.

On the supply side, tourism from foreign visitors grew at a decelerating rate, with 2.78 million international arrivals, up 2.0% year-on-year but down 5.2% month-on-month after seasonal adjustment. Domestic tourism recorded 22.6 million visitors, increasing 0.4% year-on-year but declining 1.6% month-on-month after seasonal adjustment. The agricultural sector, reflected in the agricultural output index, expanded 0.8% year-on-year and 1.2% month-on-month after seasonal adjustment, driven by increases in rubber, corn, palm oil, and fruit production, though rice and cassava output fell.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Community

Phan Navat Introduces His Adorable Younger Brother, Absolutely Smitten—Family Spoils Him Rotten

Three TV hosts meet young man Phan at DOOB DOG SPACE to introduce his beloved Pomeranian puppy, Chobattan, on the upcoming "PET Planet Rak Nee Mee Tang" broadcast. The energetic pup, who loves exercising like his owner, has captured the hearts of Phan's entire family—so much so that they reportedly spoil him more than they do their own son. The episode airs Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 4:00 PM on Channel 3HD and online platforms.

29 Apr Khaosod

Three charming hosts—A Chaiya, O Daraset, and younger sibling Pang Sranchatt—sit down with the lovesick young man and introduce his beloved "younger brother," Chobattan, a Pomeranian puppy belonging to young Phan.

The three hosts meet up with Phan at DOOB DOG SPACE, where he brings his most beloved companion to exercise. Word has it that Chobattan is an energetic dog who loves working out just like his owner. Beyond that, Chobattan is adored by everyone in the household—both parents are absolutely smitten and spoil him heavily, to the point where they're said to love him more than their own son Phan.

Catch the fun and brightness of the three hosts and their guest on "PET Planet Rak Nee Mee Tang" airing Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 4:00 PM on Channel 3HD (ch. 33) and available on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and the ch3plus app.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

DNA Research Traces Origin of Black Chin Tilapia Outbreak in Thailand

DNA research from Chulalongkorn University reveals Thailand's black chin tilapia outbreak stems from multiple illegal importations from West Africa, not a single source, with genetically distinct fish populations traced to different provinc

29 Apr Khaosod

Scientists have long debated whether Thailand's black chin tilapia outbreak originated from a single source, and new DNA research from Chulalongkorn University's Department of Marine Science and Aquatic Resources Research Institute has provided definitive answers. Research published in the international journal Aquaculture Reports analyzed fish samples from every Thai province and compared their genetic profiles with West African origins, revealing 19 different genetic patterns—with three dominant patterns appearing in Samut Songkhram, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Surat Thani provinces.

The genetic diversity strongly indicates multiple separate importations. Fish from Samut Songkhram matched at least two countries including Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana, while Surat Thani fish were genetically closest to specimens from Ghana, Togo, and Benin. Prachuap Khiri Khan and Phetchaburi fish showed yet different genetic signatures. The research confirmed that at least two genetic codes don't match fish from Samut Songkhram, meaning the province likely isn't the sole source of the national outbreak.

Human activity has clearly accelerated the spread, as genetically identical fish from Samut Songkhram have been found in distant provinces including Trat, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Southern Thailand locations like Chumphon, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Songkhla—distances impossible for natural fish migration. Beyond the legally permitted 2010 research importation, scientific evidence now confirms multiple illegal smuggling operations brought the fish into Thailand at different times. Key questions remain unanswered: who conducted these illegal imports, how many times did it occur, and what connections exist to the growing ornamental fish export business that shipped fish to 17 countries before the severe outbreak in 2017?

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

Police Arrest 3 Suspects in Drug Trafficking Network, Seize 300 kg of Crystal Methamphetamine Hidden in Modified Van Roof

Police arrested three drug traffickers and seized 300 kg of crystal methamphetamine hidden in a modified van roof in Nakhon Pathom Province on April 27, disrupting a network smuggling drugs from the border region to Bangkok.

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 29, 2026, the 191 Drug Suppression and Special Operation Center, led by Deputy Police Commissioner General Samran Nuanma along with senior law enforcement and military intelligence officials, announced the arrest of three drug trafficking suspects: 41-year-old Peerapat, 57-year-old Pracha, and 44-year-old Anna. Officers seized 300 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, a gray Toyota van with hidden compartments in the roof, and four mobile phones valued at approximately 32 million baht. The arrests were made in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province.

Deputy Police Commissioner General Samran explained that officers from Unit 191 and Army intelligence discovered the suspects were smuggling drugs into the country using modified vehicles. On April 27, a gray Toyota van was tracked traveling from Nong Khai Province toward Bangkok using routes to avoid checkpoints. At approximately 11 p.m., officers searched the vehicle in Sam Phran District and discovered 300 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine concealed within a specially modified roof compartment.

Investigations revealed the network was linked to border-area criminal groups smuggling drugs through Mae Sot District and distributing them to Bangkok and surrounding areas. The suspects initially confessed to one previous drug smuggling operation, with this being their second or third attempt. They used northeastern routes to avoid detection in northern Thailand corridors.

Deputy Police Commissioner General Samran stated that authorities will increase enforcement efforts in northern and northeastern regions by setting up checkpoints along major routes leading to Bangkok, working with all relevant agencies. The public is urged to report any drug-related information to the national police emergency hotline 191 available 24 hours, including reports of any state officials involved in drug trafficking.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Supachee-Chaiyachon-Surasak-Pattana Sign 23-Unit MOU to Crack Down on Nominees and Proxy Ownership

Twenty-three Thai government and private organizations signed an agreement on April 29 to crack down on nominee schemes and money laundering, establishing coordinated monitoring and prosecution mechanisms to protect the nation's economy and

29 Apr Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachee Suthermpanth revealed that she presided as witness to the MOU signing ceremony on April 29 to prevent and suppress the use of Thai nationals as nominees (Nominee). The ceremony was attended by Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiyachon Chidchob, Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Panyacharoen, and Public Health Minister Pattana Promphant at the Santitham Building, Government House. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul assigned Supachee as witness to the MOU signing, executed under the concept of "erasing economic divisions and defeating nominees." This marks a significant moment in Thai history as 23 public and private organizations committed to establishing mechanisms for monitoring, prevention, prosecution, and legal action against those engaged in nominee schemes and money laundering. The MOU signing today is not merely symbolic but a joint declaration of intent to safeguard the nation's economy.

"Nominees and shell companies have long been problems causing severe damage to security, society, commerce, and investment dimensions," Supachee stated. The MOU aims to "create opportunities for Thai people" and "reduce inequality" through three primary missions: 1) Integrating databases by linking financial trails, land and property ownership across public and private agencies systematically; 2) Creating surveillance mechanisms to jointly prevent, suppress, and prosecute offenders seriously and thoroughly, eliminating patterns of arrest avoidance or case dismissals; 3) Building confidence among Thai and international citizens that Thailand seriously suppresses wrongdoing while supporting legitimate businesses, encouraging honest entrepreneurs to thrive while the state stands ready to eliminate unscrupulous operators using strict legal enforcement. This mechanism will establish credibility for the investment sector and provide a foundation for foreign investors to choose Thailand as their investment base, transforming incorrect trade and investment practices into correct ones, and converting concealment into transparency.

Supachee emphasized that the mission requires cooperation from all 23 organizations including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, National Police Office, Anti-Money Laundering Office, Bank of Thailand, Board of Investment, Internal Security Command, Department of Business Development, Revenue Department, Customs Department, Special Investigation Bureau, Department of Land, Department of Tourism, Department of Employment, Department of Industrial Works, Department of National Parks, Department of Agricultural Extension, Office of the Trade Competition Commission, Office of the Food and Drug Administration, and the Industrial Product Standards Office.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Grace Leads Celebrity Delegation to Inspect 200 Million Baht Supplement Facility, Reinforcing Thai Industrial Standards

Celebrity delegation led by Grace Ganjaiglai toured a 200 million baht supplement facility in Thailand using pharmaceutical-grade air technology to ensure product quality and consumer safety standards.

29 Apr Khaosod

Grace Ganjaiglai led a delegation of celebrities and influencers including Nat Niseamani, Aiy Veerin, Kopter Phanuwat, Kimmon Vorodom, Bebe Thanyachon, Maprang Alisa, Tina Suphanaad, and Grand Konpattisorn to tour the INGLOBE supplement manufacturing facility. The plant showcases advanced Air Handling Unit (AHU) technology—the same standard used in pharmaceutical production—to control air quality, temperature, humidity, and cleanliness while preventing contamination from dust, pathogens, and chemicals. Grace emphasized that health protection requires choosing quality products with confirmed standards. Nat discussed pollution concerns, noting that supplement quality becomes crucial given environmental challenges. Maprang expressed relief that innovation brings industry standards worthy of consumer trust, while Tina highlighted that world-class manufacturing standards provide peace of mind for overall health and wellness.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Kulaya Tantitamit Explains Resignation as Revenue Commissioner, Effective May 1

Revenue Department Commissioner Kulaya Tantitamit is stepping down effective May 1 after deciding to retire early at 54, denying speculation she would join the Bank of Thailand while planning future work as a consultant.

29 Apr Khaosod

Kulaya Tantitamit has submitted her resignation as Commissioner of the Revenue Department, effective May 1, denying reports of Bank of Thailand or monetary policy committee appointments while discussing her post-retirement plans.

On April 29, Ms. Kulaya revealed that she has decided to submit her resignation from government service, which has been approved by the Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary, taking effect from May 1. She has also resigned from all board positions, including Thai Airways Public Company Limited, SCB Ex Public Company Limited (SCBX), and Siam Commercial Bank (SCB).

Ms. Kulaya described her decision as a conscious choice to rest after dedicating herself to hard work for many years, characterizing it as early retirement (early retirement) while approximately 54 years old.

"Life still has many other aspects to explore, and I want to take time to rest before embarking on new endeavors," Ms. Kulaya said.

She stated that she has no intention of returning to full-time work in the future, preferring to focus on other life priorities, but plans instead to serve as director or consultant for various private sector organizations.

Ms. Kulaya denied reports about taking a position with the Bank of Thailand or serving on the monetary policy committee, which had been circulated earlier.

Reports indicate that Deputy Revenue Commissioner Phanuwat Luangwilai is expected to assume acting commissioner duties following Ms. Kulaya's departure. Policy circles anticipate a new permanent commissioner will be appointed soon to carry forward important initiatives, as significant matters still require handover to new leadership, particularly items for Cabinet submission such as revenue collection, tax reduction measures, and withholding tax issues related to e-Withholding Tax, as well as foundation-related matters.

It was reported that on April 3, Ms. Kulaya had previously submitted a resignation letter, but it was held back by Lawaron Saengsnit, Permanent Secretary of the Finance Ministry, who asked her to reconsider. She has now resubmitted her resignation.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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