Police

Koh Pha Ngan nominee raids target 32 suspected companies

Police raided 32 companies on Koh Pha Ngan on May 13 in a crackdown on suspected foreign nominee businesses illegally holding Thai land worth around 150 million baht through Thai nationals.

6d ago The Thaiger South

Koh Pha Ngan nominee raids target 32 suspected companiesLegacyMore than 300 police officers raided 32 companies on Koh Pha Ngan this morning, May 13, as part of a crackdown on suspected foreign nominee businesses allegedly using Thai nationals to hold land on behalf of foreigners. Deputy national police chief Samran Nualma led the operation at 9am alongside officers from multiple police units, including the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, Immigration Bureau, Provincial Police Region 8, Surat Thani police and Crime Suppression Division officers. Police searched 32 target companies on Koh Pha Ngan. The companies reportedly hold 37 land plots worth around 150 million baht through suspected nominee arrangements designed to bypass Thai foreign business laws. Photo via DailyNews Investigators also sought to arrest four suspects linked to alleged illegal foreign business operations and nominee shareholding schemes. The group included one foreign national and three Thai nationals. DailyNews reported that during the searches, officers seized company registration records, shareholder documents, meeting reports, land title deeds, land sale agreements, lease contracts and management agreements. Police also confiscated financial evidence, including bank account records, income and expenditure statements, and documents related to international money transfers. Digital data and computer equipment were also seized for further examination. Photo via DailyNews Similarly, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Samui in Surat Thani today, following investigations into more than 10,000 businesses operated by foreigners through Thai nominees. The Department of Business Development (DBD) and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) recently launched a nationwide crackdown targeting illegal foreign-operated businesses using Thai nationals as nominees, particularly in major tourist destinations. Officials reported that southern Thailand had the highest number of suspected nominee-run operations. On Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Samui alone, investigators identified 11,426 companies allegedly linked to foreign ownership through Thai nominees. According to officials, 3,212 suspected illegal businesses were located on Koh Pha Ngan, while another 8,214 were found on Koh Samui. The story Koh Pha Ngan nominee raids target 32 suspected companies as seen on Thaiger News.

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National

Entertainment Stars – 'Um' and 'Bam' Complete Each Other in the 'Fulfill' Project with New Learning

Actors 'Um' Isaya Hosuwan and 'Bam' Saralee Prasertdamrong star in Channel 3's new girl-love series "Fulfill," where they play a married couple navigating family dynamics and everyday conflicts through a blend of drama and comedy.

6d ago Khaosod

The Channel 3 series "Fulfill" is underway with outstanding chemistry between stars 'Um' Isaya Hosuwan and 'Bam' Saralee Prasertdamrong. The pair shared their experiences and feelings about playing their first girl-love series.

When asked about the difficulty of performing intimate love scenes, Bam explained: "It's challenging because we need to be very close—not just our characters but also as people. We had to get to know each other as much as possible." Um added: "Since the characters need to love each other deeply and know each other well, we had to both develop the characters and find chemistry between ourselves."

To break down barriers, the actresses took acting workshops together with a professional coach. Um shared: "Understanding each other's energy and communication style was like a shortcut to building our relationship. We also spent time together, traveled, and prayed at temples to gradually ease into comfort with one another."

Interestingly, Bam was initially cast as Noi before switching roles with Um. Bam revealed that she and Um had previously worked on a project together, so they were already familiar. When Um was cast first, the production team asked if there was someone she was already close to who could generate chemistry. Um suggested Bam, and after the role swap, the team found the perfect match.

Um plays Noi, a civil engineer with clear career ambitions who cares for her family with strong determination. Bam portrays Pa-fun, an interior designer and Noi's college friend, who is a perfectionist wanting their home to be flawless—creating conflict in their relationship.

The series blends drama and comedy, depicting everyday married life that viewers will relate to. With eight episodes, each contains its own storyline arc. The show ultimately explores how marriage brings together not just two people, but entire families, transcending any relationship boundaries.

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National

DW13 Dominates Market with 70% Share: The True Leader in Derivatives Trading

KGI Securities celebrates 17 years in the derivatives market as DW13 warrants capture 70% market share, with plans to launch over 1,100 new products in 2025 to meet growing investor demand for hedging and profit-taking tools.

6d ago Khaosod

KGI Securities Marks 17 Years with Launch of 1,100 New DW Warrants to Capture Fund Flows into Thailand

KGI Securities, a giant in the derivatives market, celebrates 17 years of success with DW13 warrants capturing a historic 70% market share, reinforcing its image as the most trusted derivatives trading platform among Thai investors.

Jenwittaya Chingkulkitniwatvon, Executive Vice President of Derivatives Business at KGI Securities (Thailand) Public Company Limited, revealed that amid volatile Thai stock market conditions hovering around 1,500 points and facing headwinds from inflation and Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions, investors are seeking tools to "capture profits" and hedge risks. DW13 provides the ideal solution.

Key Factors Behind DW13's Dominance

KGI's ability to capture 70% market share stems from its "Localized Standard" strategy, which goes beyond global standards to develop products specifically for Thai investors. This includes the Thaiwarrant.com website and precisely calibrated pricing tables.

Both Offense and Defense: Investors use SET50 Put DW as a "shield" to protect portfolios during stock declines and Call DW as a "sword" to profit during rallies.

Beyond Buy & Hold: Sophisticated investment strategies using high-leverage DW on individual stocks with deep basis adjustments, strong volume recovery, and potential for significant rebounds.

2025 Strategy: Launching 1,100 New Products

To meet overwhelming demand, KGI plans to make history in 2025 by launching over 1,100 DW products for the first time, expanding its investor base across all trading styles—from extreme leverage enthusiasts to long-term strategy investors.

"We stand beside Thai investors and are ready to elevate industry standards further, making DW13 the weapon of choice for traders in all market conditions," Jenwittaya concluded.

Investors can check prices and access more information at www.thaiwarrant.com, the definitive source for DW warrants that traders need to know about.

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National

Sacred oxen forecast strong trade and food supplies in Royal Ploughing Ceremony

Thailand's Royal Ploughing Ceremony, one of the nation's most ancient royal traditions dating back over 700 years, took place at Sanam Luang with King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida presiding. The sacred oxen's symbolic selections of beans, sesame seeds, water and liquor were interpreted as auspicious omens forecasting strong agricultural yields, sufficient rainfall, and robust international trade and economic growth for the year ahead.

6d ago Khaosod

Thailand's annual Royal Ploughing Ceremony on Wednesday forecast strong trade, economic growth and abundant food supplies after the sacred oxen selected beans, sesame seeds, water and liquor during the centuries-old rite at Sanam Luang in Bangkok.

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is one of Thailand's oldest royal traditions, dating back more than 700 years to the Sukhothai period. Rooted in ancient Brahmin beliefs from India and later combined with Buddhist practices, the ceremony marks the start of the rice-growing season and is intended to bring prosperity while predicting agricultural conditions for the year ahead. The rite has continued as an important annual royal ceremony closely tied to Thailand's agricultural heritage.

Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida travelled by royal motorcade from Dusit Palace to the ceremonial pavilion at Sanam Luang to preside over the rite.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives Winairoat Subsongsook served as the Ploughing Lord, leading a ceremonial procession from the Brahmin Ceremonial Hall to the field alongside consecrated ladies, royal pundits and Brahmins. The sacred oxen were then yoked to a traditional plough, completing three lengthwise and three crosswise circuits around the field before rice seeds were scattered.

Earlier in the ceremony, the Ploughing Lord selected a six-khuep cloth, or about 1.5 metres, in the traditional garment selection ritual. Royal astrologers interpreted the choice as a sign of limited rainfall this year, predicting strong yields for lowland rice fields but possible damage and reduced harvests in upland farming areas.

After the ploughing ritual, seven offerings — rice, maize, green beans, sesame seeds, liquor, water and grass — were presented to the sacred oxen for their symbolic selection.

The oxen chose beans and sesame seeds, predicting abundant crops and food supplies. Their selection of water and grass was interpreted as a sign of sufficient rainfall and plentiful agricultural produce and livestock, while drinking liquor was seen as a positive omen for transportation, international trade and economic prosperity.

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Police

Police seize 519kg of crystal meth in south Thailand

Thai police seized 519kg of crystal methamphetamine and arrested two suspects at a checkpoint on Phetkasem Road in Chumphon province during a late-night operation targeting drug trafficking through southern Thailand.

6d ago Khaosod

CHUMPHON — On May 13, 2026, Thai police seized more than 519 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and arrested two suspects during a late-night drug interdiction operation in southern Thailand.

The suspects were detained at approximately 04:10 near the Pathomphon checkpoint on Phetkasem Road in Muang district, Chumphon province, a key transit route through Thailand's southern region.

Police also confiscated a vehicle and two mobile phones during the operation.

The seizure was conducted by officers from the Pathomphon checkpoint under the supervision of Provincial Police Region 8 and Chumphon provincial police, which have intensified inspections along major southern highways as traffickers continue attempting to move narcotics through the area.

The operation was directed by Lieutenant General Sitthichai Lokanphai, commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, along with senior regional and provincial police commanders.

Officers led by Lieutenant Colonel Piyaphon Chatphum, chief of the Pathomphon checkpoint, stopped and searched the suspects' vehicle before discovering the methamphetamine shipment.

Authorities charged the two suspects with possession of a Category 1 narcotic with intent to distribute without authorization, an offense related to commercial trafficking and public security threats under Thai law.

Investigators said they are expanding the inquiry to identify additional suspects and trace the broader trafficking network believed to be operating in southern Thailand and neighboring provinces.

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Police

Police Assert Connection Between Ming Chen Sun Case and Cambodian Scammer Gang; No Links to Thai Politicians Found

Police linked a Chinese national injured in a Chon Buri car crash to a Cambodian scammer gang after discovering C4 explosives and weapons at his Pattaya residence, though investigations found no connections to Thai politicians or planned at

6d ago Khaosod

At a National Police Office briefing on May 13, Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwphayom, the national police spokesman, provided updates on the security case involving Ming Chen Sun, a 31-year-old Chinese national who was injured in a vehicle accident in Chon Buri province. Following the crash, authorities conducted a search of a luxury residence in Pattaya where they discovered a large cache of weapons including C4 explosives, M16 rifles, and other ammunition hidden inside.

The investigation has progressed significantly after police gathered additional evidence including witness statements, forensic evidence, and digital data. Investigators discovered chat histories, weapon training photographs, and evidence of weapons accumulation dating back to late last year. According to the evidence, Ming Chen Sun has clear connections to a scammer network operating in Cambodia, though police are still investigating unconfirmed reports that the suspect received murder contracts in Cambodia.

Regarding speculation about connections to Thai politicians, Trairong stated that current investigations have found no evidence linking the suspect to any Thai politicians. He also confirmed that there is no indication the network intends to commit sabotage or violence against Thai citizens within Thailand's borders.

The case has expanded from one suspect to six individuals total, with additional charges expected to follow. When asked about security concerns after the suspect reportedly suffered severe stress and seizures requiring hospital treatment, authorities confirmed that the suspect remains under the Department of Corrections' care with strict security measures implemented by Police Region 2 under orders from Police Commander Kittarat Punthaipetch, despite the suspect's right to medical treatment.

The National Police Office is reviewing the case and upgrading foreign national screening procedures. The Immigration Bureau has been ordered to intensify monitoring of foreign nationals with unusual long-term stays and coordinate with local police to inspect residences and monitor behavior in tourist areas.

Within the next three months, immigration authorities will accelerate database checks on tourists while integrating with the Center for Transnational Crime Suppression and related agencies. A Joint Task Force will be established to investigate foreign nationals suspected of criminal activity. Long-term plans include consolidating criminal databases into the "One Police" system to enable nationwide access to information and more efficient criminal tracking.

When asked about potential damage to the police force's reputation, Trairong noted that Ming Chen Sun was not on any country's watch list.

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National

Fresh Voices – Young Guardians of Thai Music Step Toward Their Artist Dreams

GMM Grammy selected 10 young musicians from over 2,300 applicants for a program preserving traditional Thai music and developing artist careers. The participants toured recording studios and performed for industry professionals who provided

6d ago Khaosod

GMM Grammy has selected 10 talented young people from over 2,300 nationwide applicants for the "Youth Preserving Thai Music" program seasons 1 and 2, organized by the Office of the Royal Household. The initiative aims to develop youth potential in vocal and instrumental arts, preserve traditional Thai Luk Thung and Luk Krung music for sustainability, and inspire the next generation of professional artists through the professional artist selection process and behind-the-scenes entertainment industry tours.

The highlight of the visit was entering GMM Grammy's trainee artist selection process. All participants performed their singing and dancing skills on stage with full effort and dedication, judged by professional selectors including Vice President of Music Academy Withawat Weeranyano and Dance Trainer Supervisor Nopas Rodboon, who provided personalized feedback and recommendations. Participants also toured BLKGEM Studio to see artist development preparation for debuts, GMM Music Studio to observe producers and equipment used in creating hit songs, ATIME Media to experience live radio broadcasting, and One31 Channel studio to see real-time broadcast operations and professional news reporting by anchors Anuwat and Srisupang.

Participant Cartoon (Salilthip Suotrang) from season 1 and Miki (Orallin Punyawatthanon) from season 2 shared their excitement about the opportunity to showcase their talents on stage with professional guidance and witness real entertainment industry operations. Music (Pochon Boonma), also from season 2, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to pursue his artist dreams and gain inspiration from the professionals at GMM Grammy.

Over the past two seasons, the Youth Preserving Thai Music program has become a launching point for thousands of young people nationwide. The announcement for season 3 will be held on May 15 at the Office of the Royal Household.

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National

Government Clarifies Approval of Foreign Business Regulations Draft, Insists It Is Not Liberalization but Subject to Specific Laws

The government clarified that proposed foreign business regulations refine specific high-tech sectors under strict supervision, not blanket deregulation, while maintaining oversight through sector regulators like the Bank of Thailand and Se

6d ago Khaosod

On May 13, 2025, Ratchada Thanadirek, government spokesperson, addressed misconceptions about reports claiming the government would allow foreigners to conduct business without permits. She emphasized that the draft regulations under the Foreign Business Operations Act B.E. 2485 do not represent a blanket opening of business to foreigners without oversight, but rather a refinement of certain business sectors—primarily high-technology businesses or those with specific regulatory frameworks—while maintaining strict state supervision. The amendment aims to streamline redundant authorization processes, facilitate business operations, and update regulations to align with modern economic contexts, while ensuring all exempt businesses strictly comply with their respective sector laws. Examples of continuing strict oversight include telecommunications under the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, financial management centers under Bank of Thailand guidelines, securities and futures trading under the Securities and Exchange Commission, and petroleum drilling under energy sector regulations. Ratchada noted that the government prioritizes protecting Thai entrepreneurs, evidenced by the removal of software development from the draft regulation following concerns from relevant agencies about impacts on Thailand's digital industry. The regulatory improvements aim to achieve five strategic objectives: reducing unnecessary authorization steps, increasing fair and transparent competition, attracting advanced technology and expertise to Thailand, supporting Thailand's development as a regional service and business hub, and creating overall economic, investment, and employment benefits. The government reaffirms that all economic measures must protect national interests, Thai entrepreneurs, and economic security through improved regulatory efficiency, not deregulation as misunderstood.

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National

Cabinet Approves Guidelines for Broadcasting 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thailand's cabinet has approved a plan for the Department of Public Relations to broadcast the 2026 FIFA World Cup with free access to all Thai citizens through coordination with the NBTC and private sector partners. The government aims to provide comprehensive coverage across multiple channels without charging viewers, while promoting youth engagement with football and advancing Thailand's sporting development. FIFA has scheduled the tournament for June-July 2026 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

6d ago Khaosod

The cabinet has approved guidelines for broadcasting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, tasking the Department of Public Relations to coordinate with the NBTC, relevant agencies, and private companies to ensure smooth and lawful broadcast operations. The initiative aims to provide Thai citizens with free access to all World Cup matches to boost public engagement with sports and inspire youth to participate in football, while advancing Thailand's football development on the international stage.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Broadcasting rights must be purchased from FIFA, requiring coordination with private telecommunications operators, state enterprises, and digital terrestrial television networks including Thai telecom companies to distribute signals through multiple channels nationwide at no cost to viewers.

The Department of Public Relations and Thai Public Broadcasting Service (Thai PBS) hold licenses to operate public broadcasting and are responsible for disseminating news and information to promote understanding between government and citizens while supporting democratic education.

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National

Joe Darragh, Thai National Baseball Player, Invited to Throw Opening Pitch at Chicago White Sox Game

Thai-American baseball player Joe Darragh threw the opening pitch at a Chicago White Sox game against Kansas City, while also starring as Detective Danjarat in an NBC crime series alongside Amanda Seyfried.

6d ago Khaosod

Joe Darragh, a Thai-American professional baseball player for Thailand's national team who has also gained prominence in Hollywood, was invited by the Chicago White Sox to throw the opening pitch at their home game against the Kansas City Royals at Guaranteed Rate Field. The White Sox defeated the Kansas City Royals 6-5, with Darragh performing the ceremonial first pitch—a tradition where the team invites celebrities and notable figures from various fields.

Darragh played a crucial role in helping Thailand's national baseball team win a silver medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games. In addition to his athletic career, he has appeared in Hollywood productions, notably in a detective series adapted from the New York Times bestseller "Long Bright River," which streams on NBC's Peacock platform. In the series, Darragh plays Detective Danjarat in the Philadelphia Police Department, investigating a missing woman case alongside acclaimed actress Amanda Seyfried, who is known for her roles in Mean Girls, Jennifer's Body, Mank, In Time, and Les Misérables.

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National

Mew Chonburirat Survives Three-Game Battle to Edge Indian Rival, Advances in Thailand Open First Round

Mew Chonburirat battled back from a first-game loss to defeat India's Unnati Hooda 2-1 in the Toyota Thailand Open women's singles first round at Bangkok's Nimibutr Sports Hall.

6d ago Khaosod

The Toyota Thailand Open 2026, a World Tour Super 500 badminton tournament, took place at Nimibutr Sports Hall on May 13, 2025. In the women's singles first round, former runner-up Mew Chonburirat (world ranking 8) faced India's Unnati Hooda (world ranking 21) in a hard-fought match. Mew required all three games to secure her victory, winning 2-1 with scores of 11-21, 21-17, and 21-16.

Meanwhile, Cream Bussanan Ung (world ranking 18) defeated Singapore's Yao Jia Min (world ranking 32) in straight sets, 2-0, with scores of 21-16 and 21-6, also advancing to the next round.

In women's doubles, the pairing of Pat Hatthaip Michat and Gaspgang Napapak Tungkastan (world ranking 40) was eliminated in the first round, losing to Japan's Sayaka Hirota and Ayako Sakuramoto (world ranking 196) with a decisive 0-2 defeat, 12-21 and 10-21.

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