Police

Nearly 100 Million Baht Worth of Ice Drug Smuggled Across Mekong River Hidden in Durian-Shaped Packaging; Traffickers Open Fire to Escape, Leaving 248 Kilograms Behind

Authorities in Nong Khai seized 248 kilograms of methamphetamine worth 99.2 million baht hidden in durian-shaped packaging after suspected Laotian smugglers fired weapons while fleeing across the Mekong River.

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 29, officials from Nong Khai Province held a press conference announcing the seizure of 248 kilograms of ice with an estimated value of 99.2 million baht. The operation was ordered by Nong Khai Provincial Police Commander Pol. Col. Atthachorn Changngam after intelligence suggested narcotics smuggling attempts from neighboring countries using Nong Khai as a transit point.

On April 24 at approximately 6 p.m., undercover officers received a tip that Laotian nationals would transport ice from Laos across the Mekong River near Wat Rat Chaoingkham in Muang District. Around 12:30 a.m., an unmarked Toyota sedan arrived behind the temple where multiple bags were discovered. When two men emerged from the vehicle to load the bags, officers identified themselves and the suspects fled into the forest while firing their weapons to cover their escape.

Authorities found 178 packages of ice, each weighing one kilogram, printed with durian and tea designs to deceive officials. As the driver fled down Baan Tha Dok Kham Road toward Khok Maeng Shadow, officers pursued and discovered two additional bags containing 70 more packages of ice along the route. In total, 248 packages weighing approximately 248 kilograms were seized.

Initial investigation indicates the drugs were destined for distribution within Thailand, particularly in tourist destinations, with an estimated street value of 400,000 baht per kilogram. The narcotics have been transferred to Wiang Kauk District Police for further legal proceedings.

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National

Gold Traders Association Chief Warns of Severe Volatility, Short-term Investment Risky While Long-term Outlook Remains Bullish

Gold prices face near-term volatility from Middle East tensions and U.S. policy uncertainty, though long-term investors are advised to gradually buy during dips with potential gains toward $6,000 per ounce after October, according to Thaila

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 29, Jitti Tangsithiphakdi, president of the Gold Traders Association, revealed that gold prices continue to fluctuate due to Middle East tensions, especially Iran's situation, coupled with uncertainty surrounding U.S. President Donald Trump's policies. The organization urges investors to closely follow developments in May, particularly the appointment of the new Federal Reserve chairman, whose monetary policy could significantly impact gold prices.

Jitti stated that in the short term, gold prices may decline further but likely won't fall below $4,500 per ounce. For long-term investors, prices could potentially reach $6,000 per ounce after October. He recommended long-term investors gradually accumulate gold during price dips, while short-term traders, especially in online markets, should exercise caution and avoid over-leveraging.

The gold trading atmosphere remains quiet, with consumers hesitant to make purchases due to concerns about further price declines.

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Breaking

Illegal Gold Panning Crackdown: Officials Halt Operations in Khwae Noi River

Officials halted illegal gold panning operations at three sites along the Khwae Noi River in Kanchanaburi on April 28, confiscating equipment and warning offenders to protect the natural resource area.

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 29, 2569, authorities reported that on April 28, Anusorn Saangaeng, Thong Pha Phum District Officer, assigned Yongyut Saewngsuekh, Thong Pha Phum District Deputy Officer, along with members of the Thong Pha Phum Voluntary Defense Corps Unit 9, to patrol and inspect natural water source areas to prevent and address illegal gold panning. During inspections at three locations along the Khwae Noi River in Tha Khonun Subdistrict, Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi Province, officials discovered a group of individuals illegally excavating and panning for gold. Officers intervened immediately and halted the activity, educating the residents that gold panning in the area violates the law. Officials warned the offenders and confiscated all gold panning equipment as evidence to prevent repeat offenses. Authorities stated that continuous patrol operations will be conducted to protect natural resources and maintain public order in the Khwae Noi River area.

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National

Thailand and Laos Strengthen Cooperation to Combat Cross-Border Haze Under Clear Sky Strategy

Thailand and Laos have agreed to strengthen cooperation on managing cross-border haze pollution and environmental issues through the "Clear Sky Strategy," with Environment Ministers from both countries signing on to a comprehensive action plan for 2024–2030. The partnership includes establishing a real-time coordination system, developing air quality monitoring platforms, and promoting zero-burning agricultural practices across the region to improve air quality and public health.

29 Apr Khaosod

Thailand and Laos have agreed to deepen cooperation on tackling cross-border haze pollution and sustainable environmental management under the "Clear Sky Strategy", officials said on Wednesday.

On April 29 at 9:30am, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin led a Thai delegation to Laos for talks with Lao Agriculture and Environment Minister Dr. Linkham Duangsavanh, focusing on joint efforts to address transboundary haze and environmental management. Both sides reaffirmed their commitments under a trilateral framework involving Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, aimed at tackling seasonal haze and forest fire pollution across the region.

The talks centered on implementing a joint action plan for cross-border haze management spanning 2024–2030, including development of Laos' air quality reporting platform and establishment of a national air quality data center. Both countries also agreed to strengthen real-time coordination through a "WhatsApp Hotline CLEAR Sky" system at the director-general level, designed to enable rapid response during burning season and monitor haze, forest fires and PM2.5 pollution.

Additional measures include creating shared fire-risk maps, strengthening a trilateral forest fire prevention and suppression network with Myanmar, and promoting zero-burning agricultural practices under GAP standards. A product traceability system, particularly for animal feed corn, was also discussed to ensure supply chains are not connected to crop burning.

Thailand proposed a new memorandum of understanding between the two environmental ministries to better address current challenges and reflect Laos' reorganized administrative structure. Officials noted the visit demonstrates progress in regional environmental cooperation, highlighting Thailand's commitment to addressing transboundary haze through scientific collaboration, technology transfer and coordinated management to improve public health and support sustainable development across the region.

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National

Thaksin Cleared! Passes Sentence Suspension Committee, No Electronic Monitoring Required, Set to Be Released May 11

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been approved for conditional release on May 11, 2025, after the Justice Ministry's sentence suspension committee cleared him without requiring electronic monitoring. The decision was made based on Thaksin's age exceeding 70 years and his chronic health conditions. He has served approximately 7 months and 20 days of his one-year sentence at Klongprem Central Prison and will complete his remaining four months under probation.

29 Apr Khaosod

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has successfully passed the Justice Ministry's sentence suspension committee review and is cleared for conditional release on May 11 without an electronic monitoring bracelet due to his age exceeding 70 years and chronic health conditions. At a 9 a.m. meeting on April 29, 2025, at the Justice Ministry, the sentence suspension committee chaired by Deputy Permanent Secretary Tharinee Saengswang approved Thaksin's case after more than three hours of deliberation. Thaksin, who has been held at Klongprem Central Prison since September 9, 2024, has served 7 months and 20 days of his sentence, with only 12 days remaining before he completes two-thirds of his one-year sentence. The committee's decision will be forwarded to Klongprem Central Prison, and Thaksin will be released on May 11, 2025, to serve the remaining four months under probation supervision.

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National

Five Parties Support Academic's Proposal to Eliminate Jail Time for Unpaid Fines and Revise Constituency Ballot Papers

Five political parties backed an academic's proposal to replace jail time for unpaid fines with community service and add candidate names to constituency ballots, addressing concerns about imprisonment of poor defendants and election confus

29 Apr Khaosod

At 11:15 AM on April 29, 2026, representatives from five political parties—including Kravairt Parisananung (Ang Thong, Bhumjaithai), Prachit Watcharasinthsuthon (Party List, Pheu Thai), Chaturon Chaisaeng (Party List, Pheu Thai), Arthakorn Sirilerthakyakor (Chachoengsao, Kla Tham), and Sathit Wongnongtoy (Party List, Thai Democrats)—received a letter from Professor Prinya Tewanirumitrkul of Thammasat University's Faculty of Law proposing amendments to eliminate imprisonment in lieu of fines and revise the Organic Act on House elections.

Prinya stated he represented law students and faculty, presenting two main proposals. First, he addressed the issue of poor defendants unable to pay fines being imprisoned instead, despite potential community service options being underutilized. All five parties agreed this problem should be fixed by amending Criminal Code Section 29, replacing jail time with community service.

Second, regarding past election issues, Prinya proposed four improvements to the electoral law: citizen convenience, transparent vote counting, public participation in election monitoring, and timely announcement of eligible voters and district-level results.

All five parties agreed on one key reform: constituency ballots currently show only candidate numbers without names or party affiliations, creating confusion across 400 districts with varying numbers for the same party's candidates. This enables cross-constituency ballot misuse and compromises election integrity. The parties unanimously support adding candidate and party names to constituency ballots.

Prinya noted Thammasat's Faculty of Law recommends announcing eligible voter counts within 24 hours of voting and district-level results within 48 hours, echoing procedures from the Ministry of Interior era.

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National

Yuasa Teams Up with Y-Speed to Launch 'Future Forward Dealer Conference'

Yuasa Battery held a major dealer conference in Bangkok to launch new Y-Speed battery models TZ5 and TZ7, targeting Thailand's mass market expansion. The event featured celebrity appearances and a lucky draw offering over 500,000 baht in prizes to dealers, emphasizing Yuasa's commitment to market growth and dealer partnerships.

29 Apr Khaosod

Yuasa Battery (Thailand) Public Company Limited, a global leader in motorcycle and automobile batteries, held its grand dealer conference 'Yuasa & Y-Speed Future Forward Dealer Conference' at the Avani+ Riverside Bangkok hotel to announce business direction and showcase product diversity while launching new Y-Speed battery models TZ5 and TZ7, aiming to expand the mass market customer base nationwide.

During the event, Yuasa reinforced its leadership image by showcasing motorcycles from world-leading brands that trust Yuasa batteries as standard OEM equipment, reflecting internationally recognized quality standards. The company also presented a comprehensive range of car batteries to meet diverse consumer needs.

CEO Tsuneo Yoshimura stated: 'Thailand has over 23-24 million motorcycles, with more than 90% used in daily life, reflecting that motorcycles are crucial to Thai lifestyle. Yuasa is committed to developing high-quality batteries to support people's daily lives. The Thai market is very important for us, which is why we developed the Y-Speed brand specifically to serve family motorcycles and scooters, the main market segments in Thailand.'

The event featured an elegant parade-style opening led by 'Prae Twinanth,' a renowned motorcycle industry influencer, along with entertainment from concerts by 'Yaya Ying' and 'China Dolls,' celebrating success with dealers nationwide.

Beyond business cooperation, Yuasa organized a major Lucky Draw giveaway worth over 500,000 baht for dealers, with grand prizes including limited edition Honda Scoopy and Yamaha Fazzio motorcycles from the Yuasa brand.

COO Sukhat Ruangwattanachotee added: 'Yuasa's strength lies in OEM reliability chosen by leading motorcycle manufacturers, combined with quality and continuously developed technology. We have both premium main brand and Y-Speed brand serving the mass market, allowing us to compete in every segment. We also prioritize dealers as long-term partners by supporting products, knowledge, and activities comprehensively, including integrated marketing to create engagement and sustainable growth together.'

This move by Yuasa and Y-Speed not only launches new products but also confirms readiness to drive innovation and expand market share in Thailand under the strong and sustainable 'Future Forward' concept.

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National

Manchester United poised to release 10 players this summer – Onana and Rashford among those targeted

Manchester United is preparing to release over 10 players this summer, including goalkeeper André Onana and forward Marcus Rashford, as the club restructures its squad ahead of next season.

29 Apr Khaosod

Manchester United has scheduled meetings this week to discuss player departures during the summer transfer window, with over 10 players potentially being released, led by André Onana and Marcus Rashford. According to The Sun, United's management aims to clarify the futures of certain players to facilitate smooth transfers. Reports indicate that more than 10 squad members could be released from the club this summer due to various factors, including falling out of plans and contract expiries. Players on the departure list include André Onana, Marcus Rashford, Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, Altay Bayindir, Toby Collyer, Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia, and Tyler Fredrickson. Additionally, Manchester United is looking to sign at least two defensive midfielders to prepare the team for next season's UEFA Champions League campaign, as they aim to secure a full quota spot.

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National

IOC Inspects Chonburi's Readiness to Host 2030 Youth Olympic Games

An IOC delegation led by Mrs. Danka Hrbékova officially visited Thailand to inspect venues in Chonburi province for hosting the 2030 Youth Olympic Games in Bangkok. The inspection covered proposed marine and outdoor sports facilities including beaches, yacht clubs, and training centers that would host events such as beach volleyball, sailing, rowing, and golf. Thailand is preparing to showcase its readiness and capabilities to successfully host the international youth sporting event.

29 Apr Khaosod

An IOC delegation made an official visit to Thailand to inspect Chonburi facilities and present the country's capabilities as host of the Bangkok 2030 Youth Olympic Games on April 29, 2025. Mrs. Danka Hrbékova, IOC member and chair of the 2030 Youth Olympic Games working group, along with her delegation, toured Chonburi province with representatives from Thailand's Sports Authority and the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NCOT). The inspection focused on marine and outdoor competition venues, including Thai Polo and Equestrian Club, Sattahip Navy House Hotel (proposed as an extended athletes' village), Jomtien Beach (proposed for beach handball, modern pentathlon, rowing, triathlon, and beach wrestling), Ocean Marina Yacht Club (proposed for sailing and windsurfing), and Thai Country Club (designated for golf competitions). Among the visitors was Trisha Smith, a four-time Olympic athlete and former vice president of the International Rowing Federation (FISA), who toured the Royal Thai Navy Rowing Training Center.

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National

Acer Hosts Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific 2026

Acer successfully held the Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific 2026 in Jakarta on April 22-23, bringing together education leaders and policymakers from 12 countries to advance AI-driven learning. The summit featured presentations from MIT Media Lab and leading universities on personalized learning, digital literacy, and the evolving role of teachers in the technology era. Acer showcased its latest AI infrastructure solutions including the Altos BrainSphere AI Server to support next-generation classroom innovation.

29 Apr Khaosod

Jakarta, Indonesia — Acer successfully held the Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific 2026 under the theme "Future-Ready Learning: AI, Innovation, and Human-Centered Education," reinforcing its role in driving regional education advancement. The summit brought together education professionals from across the region to promote widespread AI adoption and accelerate meaningful change in the education sector.

The event took place in Jakarta on April 22-23, 2026, with delegations from 12 countries including Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. The summit provided a platform for educators, policymakers, and technology industry leaders to exchange perspectives and leverage technology to enhance learning outcomes in alignment with Acer's 50th-anniversary strategic initiative "The Next Breaking Barriers," aimed at breaking technological boundaries across all aspects of life, including education.

Andrew Ho, Operating Officer for Asia Pacific at Acer Inc., stated: "The Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific reflects Acer's commitment to using technology to shape the future of education and foster collaboration among countries in the region to move forward together. We believe meaningful change occurs when innovation truly addresses people's needs. This summit represents another step by Acer in helping educators, institutions, and policymakers jointly create a comprehensive and future-ready learning system across the region."

Collaboration Platform for Sustainable Adaptive Education

Throughout the two-day summit, Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific 2026 hosted panel discussions, presentations, and knowledge exchanges on effectively implementing AI in education, covering key topics including personalized learning, digital literacy advancement, and the evolving role of teachers in the era of rapid technological progress. The focus was on creating conditions for technology and educators to work together to build a more comprehensive, adaptive, and sustainable education system while fostering innovative approaches that genuinely unlock learner potential.

A major highlight was the presentation of the latest AI education research from MIT Media Lab's City Science group, introducing the Learning Foundry for AI and Robotics (FAIR) project. Dr. Michael Lin from MIT collaborated with Dr. Wolfgang Gruel from Stuttgart Media University to share approaches for leveraging AI to enable personalized and scalable learning while addressing challenges of modern urban life. Additionally, Jun-Yu Fan, President of Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, presented a curriculum on "The Algorithm of the Nursing Soul," demonstrating the transition from rote learning to AI-enhanced clinical perspectives in nursing education.

AI Innovation and Devices for Next-Generation Classrooms

For practical implementation, Altos Computing, an Acer subsidiary, showcased a comprehensive AI infrastructure, featuring the high-performance Altos BrainSphere R680 F7 AI Server as a centerpiece, alongside AI workstations.

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National

Sirikunya Warns Government Against Proceeding with Land Bridge Project Due to Low Returns and Investment Concerns

Opposition MP Sirikunya warns the government against pursuing the Land Bridge project, citing private sector returns of just 5%—too low to attract investors—and risks of repeating failed concession project models that harmed local communiti

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 29, 2569 at Parliament, Ms. Sirikunya Tansookul, opposition list MP and deputy leader of the Pracharaj Party, presented findings from a shadow cabinet meeting regarding the government's Land Bridge project proposal. According to an evaluation by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, the overall project shows an acceptable 8% rate of return with positive net present value. However, when assessed for private sector viability, returns drop to just 5%—a level so low that no private investors would be willing to participate, with negative net present value figures. Sirikunya characterized this as the worst-case scenario, as it would require private firms to fund 100% of the project themselves, making it highly unattractive for investment. She expressed uncertainty about how the government plans to proceed and whether it would adjust the investment structure. Sirikunya warned that if private sector involvement remains at 100%, there is risk of repeating past concession project failures that were auctioned then later renegotiated, such as the three-airport rail link and airport duty-free shop tender, potentially creating unfair conditions for initial bidders. She also highlighted additional concerns including environmental impacts on the Phayam and Surin island groups, as well as damage to local farming and fishing communities, questioning whether the government should proceed with a project unlikely to attract private investment.

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