National

No Corners to Hide – Can Lt. Cdr. Virojn's Testimony Cut Short the Case?

Lt. Cdr. Virojn Ketumani, arrested as one of two gunmen in the shooting of a Nakhon Si Thammarat MP, is evasive in testimony but evidence points to broader military involvement that cannot be concealed. Investigators are closing in on other

25 Apr Khaosod

Details have emerged about the background of Lt. Cdr. Virojn Ketumani, a former naval officer and the fifth suspect in the shooting of Pol. Gen. Malasakdi Liwamaow, a Nakhon Si Thammarat MP from the Thai Nation Party, recently arrested by police. He is one of two gunmen who fired M16 rifles, injuring two people severely.

With his decade-long experience as a UN security officer in Iraq and Afghanistan, combined with YouTube clips showing him expertly analyzing Afghan situations with detailed knowledge of various ethnic groups, it becomes clear why his testimony in the MP shooting case is filled with evasions and selective admissions—claiming no one directed him, that ISOC and the military were uninvolved, and citing personal disapproval of the MP as a human rights lawyer, before concluding that Thailand's territory is sacred and indivisible.

Given his preparation time, readiness, and extensive foreign experience, his fragmented testimony appears calculated to shield others from prosecution. He is indeed an extraordinary suspect. However, no matter how knowledgeable or experienced, when someone stands accused as a shooter hunting human life, prosecution must proceed without exception. Those with expertise who turn to dark purposes must be caught and pursued. His invocation that Thailand's territory cannot be divided is absurd—MP Malasakdi is certainly not a separatist, making this the flimsiest of excuses.

Regardless of how skillfully Lt. Cdr. Virojn testifies to compartmentalize the case, the factual evidence cannot hide that more people are involved. Take Lt. Col. Montri Tolaprasoet, the ISOC officer who provided the vehicle to Lt. Cdr. Virojn. The Thai Nation Party is now pressing that he must inevitably face charges. His claim that he lent the vehicle to a friend without knowing what it would be used for is implausible. The vehicle underwent modifications and had tinted film applied—Lt. Col. Montri must have known. Furthermore, Virojn's team conducted live-fire drills at a military camp beforehand, which everyone would have witnessed. The case is now drawing dangerously close to Lt. Col. Montri, and there is no way to protect him. Additional active-duty military officers may also have evidence linking them to the incident.

Facts and evidence represent case progress that no one can stop. No matter how skillfully Lt. Cdr. Virojn constructs his testimony to obstruct the case, it cannot possibly be compartmentalized. This investigation will inevitably move forward.

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Community

Crowds Flock to Charitable Forest Cleanup Event: 800 Unidentified Remains Exhumed, Multiple Golden Child Statues Discovered

Thousands of volunteers participated in a charitable forest cleanup in Nakhon Ratchasima on April 25, exhuming roughly 800 unidentified remains and discovering several golden child statues as part of a sacred Buddhist ceremony honoring wand

25 Apr Khaosod

Nakhon Ratchasima—A major charitable event drew crowds of devotees for the third forest cleanup and collection of approximately 800 unidentified remains, with the discovery of several golden child statues creating considerable excitement among participants before the forest closure and sacred ceremony to honor wandering spirits.

On April 25, 2025, the Sueng Neuen Charitable Foundation's cemetery in Sueng Neuen District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, hosted the bustling event. Foundation President Somkiat Kiakamchai led proceedings alongside representatives from a network of 72 foundations, committee members, officials, and thousands of devoted volunteers and residents working in harmony.

The forest cleanup ceremony, conducted as a sacred rite honoring Buddhist and Thai-Chinese traditions, involved exhuming unidentified remains for cleansing, chanting for spiritual passage, and cremation to guide souls toward favorable realms. Believed to bring merit and fortune, the ceremony dedicates merit to unclaimed spirits.

The third exhumation committee, supported by the 72-foundation network, received cooperation from hundreds of volunteers from provinces including Saraburi, Khon Kaen, Chonburi, Chaiyaphum, and Buriram. Operating from March 28 through May 12, 2025—a 49-day period—the effort involved opening 51 burial blocks. Today's work uncovered approximately 800 remains, including several golden child statues that drew considerable attention. These will be cleansed and honored through religious ceremonies dedicating merit to the unclaimed spirits.

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Police

Nong Khai Narcotics Enforcement Officers Arrest Two Men with Major Meth Haul Worth 39 Million Baht

Narcotics officers in Nong Khai arrested two men with 790,000 methamphetamine pills worth 39 million baht hidden at a rubber plantation in Sangkhom District on April 25. The suspects were allegedly preparing to smuggle the drugs into centra

25 Apr Khaosod

Nong Khai narcotics enforcement officers have apprehended two men caught attempting to smuggle 790,000 methamphetamine pills valued at approximately 39 million baht through a rubber plantation in Sangkhom District, with plans to transport the drugs into central Thailand.

At 2:00 PM on April 25, 2025, officials from the Nong Khai River Security Unit in Si Chiang Mai District announced the arrests. Deputy Governor Paitoon Mahachuenjai, Narcotics Enforcement Commander Pol. Col. Nrong Emdee, and Nong Khai Narcotics Chief Adm. Wisitpong Charoenwijchadech coordinated with military personnel, police, customs officials including Customs Director Wanna Phuotsamai, and local administrative officers to make the announcement.

The suspects—27-year-old Kiartpong from Phra Yuen District, Khon Kaen Province, and 38-year-old Jeeranai from Sangkhom District, Nong Khai Province—were arrested along with three motorcycles used in the operation. Officers had received intelligence on April 22 about a planned drug shipment into Sangkhom and tracked the suspects' movement from the Thai-Lao First Friendship Bridge in Muang Nong Khai District to their hideout at a rubber plantation in Nam Phai Village.

Authorities believe the suspects received the methamphetamine from a neighboring country and were holding it temporarily while coordinating with their network to distribute it throughout Thailand's interior. The suspects face formal drug trafficking charges.

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National

Editorial – Recommendations from the Federation of Thai Industries

Thailand's industrial confidence fell to 88.6 in March as geopolitical tensions, surging energy costs, and raw material shortages squeeze manufacturers and exporters across automotive, chemicals, and other key sectors.

25 Apr Khaosod

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has released its March industrial confidence index, which fell to 88.6 from 90.0 in February. The decline stems from escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, along with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has driven up energy and shipping costs and increased production expenses for manufacturers.

These geopolitical developments are also affecting Thai exports to the Middle East, particularly in the automotive, air conditioning, and wood products sectors. Diesel prices have surged from 36.07 baht to 40.74 baht per liter as of March 31, raising costs for transport, agriculture, and industry, while fuel shortages at service stations are disrupting local economic activity.

Industry is also struggling with raw material shortages—including plastic pellets, chemicals, packaging materials, and aluminum—forcing manufacturers to absorb higher production costs by raising prices. The FTI projects the industrial confidence index will decline to 95.9 over the next three months, down from 97.4 in February, due to multiple pressures.

Businesses remain concerned about prolonged U.S.-Israel-Iran tensions, which are straining supply chains and logistics, impacting both manufacturing and tourism. Electricity rates under the automatic fuel adjustment mechanism are expected to rise to around 4 baht per unit from May to August 2026, further increasing industrial energy costs.

The FTI notes the government is preparing targeted relief measures and proposes reducing fuel excise taxes while utilizing the fuel fund to stabilize diesel prices, along with preventing hoarding and price manipulation. Additional recommendations include promoting energy efficiency, supporting consolidated shipping models, managing backhaul trips to reduce empty runs, restricting scrap metal, aluminum, and paper exports to preserve raw materials, and accelerating the development of alternative raw material sources and databases.

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National

Sapporo confirms Supachok sidelined with knee ligament injury for three months, likely to miss Thailand national team duty in June

Thai forward Supachok Sarachat suffered a torn knee ligament while playing for Sapporo and faces three months of recovery, likely sidelining him from Thailand's June national team matches.

25 Apr Khaosod

Consadole Sapporo has confirmed that Supachok Sarachat, a forward for the Thai national team, sustained a torn medial collateral ligament (MCL) in a home match where the team defeated Matsumoto Yamaga 2-1 last week. Medical assessment suggests the player will require at least two to three months of recovery, eliminating his availability for critical fixtures during this season. The injury is also likely to impact his chances of returning to play for Thailand, with indications he will miss the team's FIFA international window friendly matches scheduled for June.

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National

Abbot Phrayom Denies Fake News: Viral Video of Monk Abusing Novice Falsely Attributed to Suan Kaew Temple

Abbot Phrayom of Suan Kaew Temple in Nonthaburi denied a viral video showing monk abuse was from his temple, saying someone falsely attached the temple's name to unverified footage. He urged the public to verify sources before sharing misin

25 Apr Khaosod

On April 25, 2025, Abbot Phrayom Kanjano of Suan Kaew Temple in Nonthaburi province addressed a circulating video claiming to show a senior monk abusing a novice. He questioned why the original posts did not specify which temple the incident occurred at or what wrongdoing the novice committed, noting that someone had placed Suan Kaew Temple's name tag on the video and claimed the monk had beaten the novice until bruised. Phrayom stated that such behavior does not reflect true monastic conduct. He emphasized that the shared content has caused the temple considerable trouble and noted this is not the first such incident he has encountered. Temple officials have filed a formal complaint and daily record to clarify that the incident did not occur at Suan Kaew Temple.

Phrayom appealed to the public to be discerning media consumers and verify sources before sharing or believing unsubstantiated claims. He warned that angry individuals have called the temple to criticize them, and that misinformation spreads rapidly once posted. He urged people not to blindly follow or believe such reports, describing the spread of fake news as a form of moral decay in society, as predicted by the late Venerable Buddhadasa Bhikkhu regarding technology's impact.

Phrayom added that the temple had only three novices ordained during the recent summer period, with two having already disrobed, leaving one remaining. He noted that when asking the young residents at the temple if any monks matched the appearance in the video, they confirmed no such monk was present at the temple. He pointed out that most monks at Suan Kaew are elderly, while the person depicted in the video appears younger.

Phrayom concluded by requesting that devotees exercise careful consideration and encouraged anyone with questions to contact the temple directly for clarification.

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National

Agriculture Ministry Aims to Develop Chiang Rai as 'Agricultural Hub of Northern Thailand'

Thailand's Agriculture Ministry is working to transform Chiang Rai into the agricultural hub of northern Thailand by strengthening cooperatives and integrating technology throughout the farming value chain. The initiative, announced at a pr

25 Apr Khaosod

The Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives is spearheading efforts to transform Chiang Rai into the 'Agricultural Hub of Northern Thailand,' leveraging cooperatives as a mechanism to drive grassroots economic development and agricultural reform.

Deputy Minister Piyaratcha Tiyapairat presided over the 'Cooperative Unity Assembly in Chiang Rai Province,' organized by the Chiang Rai Cooperative Office to disseminate key ministry policies to cooperatives and farmers. The event, held at the Chiang Rai Teachers' Savings Cooperative meeting hall in Ban Du subdistrict, attracted approximately 500 participants including senior agricultural officials, cooperative administrators, farmers, and representatives from state agencies.

The ministry's policy, under the direction of Agriculture Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, emphasizes 'innovative agriculture for sustainable Thai farming.' The approach integrates technology and innovation throughout the agricultural value chain, from production to marketing, while fostering collaboration across all sectors to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen farmers' capabilities.

The implementation strategy encompasses five key dimensions: elevating cooperatives to professionally-managed, transparent community enterprises; enhancing cooperative competitiveness through knowledge development in production, processing, and marketing; driving cooperatives through digital technology and innovation; promoting group collaboration and networks at local, regional, and national levels; and developing new-generation farmers and cooperative leaders with modern skills.

Crucially, the ministry will advance cooperatives under the BCG economy concept—combining bioeconomy, circular economy, and green economy principles—to ensure sustainable, environmentally-friendly agricultural development.

Chiang Rai possesses significant potential in commercial crop production, agricultural processing, and cross-border trade. The Agriculture Ministry has set an ambitious goal to develop the province into the 'Agricultural Hub of Northern Thailand,' using the cooperative system as a strategic mechanism to transform grassroots economies into regional economic centers. The focus will be on agricultural cooperatives, which play a crucial role in aggregating and processing key products such as rice, rubber, and fruits.

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Tourism

Cheng Lei Wants to Learn Thai, Charms Fans with Romantic Phrases 'I Love You - You're All Beautiful'

Chinese actor Cheng Lei charmed Thai fans at an iQIYI event in Bangkok, practicing Thai phrases and expressing his desire to learn the language fluently during his first visit to Thailand as the brand's new global ambassador.

25 Apr Khaosod

Cheng Lei (known to Thai fans as 'Phi Mongkol') recently flew to Thailand to participate in the 2026 iQIYI Starship Meet and Greet, where he was announced as the latest iQIYI International Global Ambassador. The Chinese actor, famous for series like 'Above the Battlefield' and 'Breaking Through Dimensions to Enter the Grand Palace,' did not disappoint Thai fans at the event held at SPHERE GALLERY2 in EMSPHERE, charming the packed crowd with his charisma, dazzling smile, and romantic Thai phrases including 'I love you' (Phom rak khun) and 'You're all beautiful.'

During a media interview on the 14th floor of EM Tower, Cheng Lei expressed his honor at becoming an iQIYI International Global Ambassador and shared his emotions about meeting Thai fans for the first time. 'I'm very honored to receive this opportunity from iQIYI. I was very nervous and sweating the entire time, but Thai fans were so happy and fun. Once my nerves settled, I felt genuine joy. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity, and I hope to meet you all again,' he said.

When asked about his preparation for the meet and greet, Cheng Lei revealed he had practiced Thai extensively but became too nervous to speak it fluently on stage. 'I prepared a lot of Thai language, but once I went on stage I got excited and scared of making mistakes, so I couldn't speak it out. I hope that on my next visit to Thailand, I'll be able to speak Thai fluently for everyone to hear,' he explained.

The actor was deeply moved by Thai fans' warm reception, particularly during the fan project portion. 'Thai fans are really fun and enthusiastic. When I saw the fan project and turned back to face everyone, that moment was truly touching and meaningful,' he shared.

Regarding future visits to Thailand, Cheng Lei expressed interest in spending 2-3 days in Bangkok and exploring what the country has to offer. 'Thailand has many cities with their own charm. I know Thailand has lots of delicious food, but I'd like to feel like a random tourist trying anything I come across. That would be more of a surprise,' he said.

When asked about potential collaborations with Thai actors, Cheng Lei stated his genuine desire to learn Thai. 'I really want to learn Thai so I can understand Thai culture and exchange cultures with each other,' he explained.

Before closing the interview, Cheng Lei repeated the Thai phrase 'I love you' (Phom rak khun khrap) and left a heartfelt message for his Thai fans: 'First of all, I feel very honored to meet all of you today. Most importantly, I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my work with Thai fans. I promise to keep improving myself and creating quality work that you can follow and enjoy. Let's support each other.'

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National

Supachai Tackles Chanthaburi's Record Durian Harvest: Targeting 1 Million Tons for Export with TikTok Live Commerce Boost

Thailand's Commerce Ministry targets exporting a record 1 million tons of durians in 2025 by boosting domestic sales through TikTok live commerce and modern retail channels amid a 33% production surge expected to peak in May.

25 Apr Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Panitchpakdi led Commerce Ministry executives to Chanthaburi province on April 25 to monitor the 2025 durian production situation and inspect farming operations at Sompong Garden, a 1-billion-baht durian farm in Khao Khitchakut District. The delegation inspected quality management systems from farm to market, accompanied by provincial governor Mont Sitthiphon Paisalthanavatana, parliamentary representatives, and Chanida Khai Phuean, Director of Public Policy for TikTok Thailand.

During the visit, the team observed premium durian production and processing techniques under the "Q-Chan" brand, which implements quality control throughout the supply chain. Minister Supachai revealed that 2025 durian production is expected to reach approximately 2.071 million tons, a 33% increase, with the eastern region alone producing about 998,000 tons—48% of the national total. Peak harvesting is anticipated in May.

Currently, Thai durians are exported at roughly 70% while 30% are consumed domestically. The Commerce Ministry aims to increase domestic consumption to manage the surplus production and maintain price stability. The ministry targets moving at least 450,000 tons through domestic channels, including central markets and over 350 modern retail outlets, alongside sales through Thailand Post and online platforms in partnership with TikTok's live commerce features to reach younger consumers.

Minister Supachai witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Internal Trade and TikTok Technologies Ltd. to promote Thai fruit sales through TikTok Shop and live commerce platforms. This collaboration is expected to boost farmer income, expand consumer reach particularly among younger demographics and foreign tourists, utilizing digital content and influencer partnerships.

Chanida Khai Phuean from TikTok Thailand noted that the platform has become crucial in converting content into actual sales, with agricultural products on TikTok Shop growing 15-20% and 1.8 million creators participating. TikTok will run promotional campaigns with the Commerce Ministry, providing over 6.5 million baht in coupons and shipping subsidies to accelerate product sales. The partnership will follow a 3S strategy (Start-Skill-Scale) supporting farmers from their first sale to scaling operations, while promoting the "Thailand: The Land of Tropical Fruits" brand through digital content to boost global recognition of Thai durians.

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National

Iran Grants Russia Exemption from Strait of Hormuz Transit Fees

Iran is granting Russia exemptions from newly imposed Strait of Hormuz transit fees, with Tehran justifying the charges as security costs following escalating military tensions in the region.

25 Apr Khaosod

Iran's Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali has disclosed that Tehran is granting exemptions from Strait of Hormuz transit fees to select nations, including Russia, according to Russian news agencies RIA Novosti and Al-Mayadeen. The ambassador stated that Iran is currently providing exceptions for friendly countries like Russia, though future policy remains uncertain. Iran announced its plan to impose transit fees following escalating military attacks between the U.S., Israel, and Iran since late February, justifying the charges as necessary costs for maintaining security in the strategic waterway. The country has also closed the strait and indicated it will reopen only when the U.S. ends its naval blockade entirely. Iran's Vice Speaker of Parliament Hamid Reza Haji Babaei confirmed on April 23 that the country has already received the first transit fee payment, transferred to the national central bank. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint between the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, is the world's only major maritime outlet for the region. Prior to recent conflicts, approximately 20 million barrels of oil transited daily through the strait, representing roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption.

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Police

Win Willan Drops Another Shocking Deal! Raids Chanthaburi Durian Orchards with Export-Grade Fruit at Bargain Prices

Win Willan, Thailand's top live shopping host, is selling premium export-grade durian from Chanthaburi orchards at bargain prices in a livestream on April 25th, offering fruit typically reserved for export at tens of baht per unit.

25 Apr Khaosod

Win Willan, Thailand's top live shopping host with over 24 million TikTok followers, is launching another shocking promotion. The livestreamer will raid durian orchards in Chanthaburi province to sell premium export-grade durian fruit in a live broadcast at prices starting from just tens of baht. Win explained that premium quality durian is typically exported abroad, but he's offering a special promotion with unbeatable prices so viewers can enjoy quality fruit at excellent value. He stressed that the fruit will be genuine export-grade quality and that he won't sell anything substandard. Don't miss the livestream on April 25th starting at 8:00 PM.

No. 11 of ∞ Read at source → Next