At 11:30 a.m. on May 7, 2025, Pol. Lt. Gen. Sayam Boonsom, Police Chief, accompanied by Pol. Maj. Thierdej Tharmsutheep, Deputy Police Chief, went to an apartment on Soi Kosumruamjai 14, Don Muang Subdistrict, Don Muang District to announce the arrest of two suspects in connection with the theft of exotic animals from Pata Zoo at Pata Pinklao Department Store.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Sayam and police officers searched the apartment and discovered evidence consisting of 13 exotic animals including snakes, raccoons, and Sulcata tortoises, along with stolen animals from Pata Zoo such as tiger-striped salamanders and Chinese crocodile geckos, as well as animals stolen from Samsen Zoo in Bang Khen, including baby squirrel monkeys.

Both suspects confessed before Pol. Lt. Gen. Sayam that they had committed the thefts from zoos. However, they denied selling the animals, claiming they kept them as personal pets, and they apologized for their actions.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Sayam revealed to the media that the arrest stemmed from a tip to the Narcotics Division of the Bangkok Metropolitan Police, led by Pol. Maj. Thierdej, regarding a drug investigation at the apartment. The male suspect had outstanding arrest warrants for drug offenses in other provinces and an arrest warrant for the Pata Zoo theft from Bang Yee Khen Police Station.

Operational units executed the arrest warrant and discovered numerous exotic animals in the suspects' room, particularly those stolen from Pata Zoo as well as those from Samsen Zoo.

Initially, both suspects admitted to stealing tiger salamanders and Chinese crocodile geckos from Pata Pinklao Zoo, and baby squirrel monkeys from Samsen Zoo in Bang Khen. They also confessed to previously stealing a Sulcata tortoise from Ayutthaya Province. Investigations continue regarding the origins of the other animals.

The suspects further revealed that they stole these animals to sell online and used the proceeds to purchase drugs. However, the theft was not commissioned by anyone—rather, both suspects had an interest in and knowledge of exotic animals.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Sayam stated that these exotic animals command high prices and are sought after by rare animal enthusiasts, generating substantial income. The suspects have engaged in this activity for over 2-3 years, constantly moving to different locations to evade arrest. The Don Muang apartment was only recently occupied, within the past week, specifically to avoid easy apprehension.

The suspects targeted locations selling or keeping exotic animals, including various zoos, monitoring Facebook pages and online information. In the case of Pata Pinklao Zoo, the male suspect first surveyed the area, then exploited blind spots in the CCTV coverage while the female suspect watched the cameras and blocked the view. The male suspect then reached into the enclosures and removed two animals, placed them in a bag, and exited the zoo during a time when few people were present.

All animals will be examined to determine their legal status, whether they were stolen property, and to identify which species are protected under wildlife conservation laws, in order to file appropriate charges.

Sorayuth Sutasnachinda confirmed he once visited the famous Lumphun spiritual master offering VIP karma cleansing services, but insisted he did not participate in the ceremony. Sorayuth further disclosed that Noes Udom had previously shared on air that his subordinate experienced incidents matching the reported allegations. According to Sorayuth's account, Noes explained that he had not secured copyright permission before sharing his colleague's story publicly. "When they were alone together, something unexpected happened," Sorayuth recalled Noes saying. "I went there before, but I didn't go inside. I'm older and can tell by looking at someone's face what's suspicious. People believe in this stuff, so we wonder what's going on. If I had gone, I'd probably have even more to say. But Udom is now questioning whether the story was about his subordinate, a friend, or if he himself went and left early."

Luang Pho Thong Suk Intathocho, formally known as Phra Kru Pinit Sut Khun, was a highly esteemed Buddhist abbot at Wat Tonod Luang in Bangkao Subdistrict, Cha-am District, Phetchburi Province—a figure of legendary status not only in Phetchburi but throughout neighboring provinces, particularly renowned for blessed amulets imbued with spiritual merit and personal experience. Originally named Suk with the surname Deelert, he was born on Friday, May 19, 1877, at Ban Thabdai in Hinleelai Subdistrict, Phetchburi, during the reign of King Rama V.

At age nine, he enrolled at Wat Phi in Ban Lad Subdistrict under the tutelage of the abbot, learning to read and write, and also studying Khmer and Pali scriptures. He developed a passion for martial combat, excelling in boxing, swordsmanship, and stick fighting—disciplines he later taught to numerous students.

At fifteen, he relocated to Ban Phleng in Ratchaburi Province during his restless adolescence. He enjoyed wandering with friends and rarely stayed home, instead performing in traditional theater and shadow puppetry, even teaching these arts to others. Eventually tiring of performance, he continued to roam aimlessly, eventually associating with gangsters and becoming involved in organized crime. He became a notorious criminal operating across Phetchburi, Ratchaburi, and Samut Songkhram provinces, forced to hide in forests to evade authorities.

During one escape into the wilderness, after three days without food, he experienced a profound spiritual awakening, recognizing that his lifestyle was fundamentally wrong. Fearing continued suffering in body and mind, he resolved to ordain as a Buddhist monk at age 32 on July 12, 1909, at Wat Pramaot in Samut Songkhram Province, with Luang Pho Tad of Wat Bang Wang Thong as his preceptor.

He spent four Buddhist Lent periods at Wat Pramaot, two at Wat Kaew in Ratchaburi Province, and one at Wat Mai. He then undertook forest wandering with Samaneru Chan (later Phra Kru Chan Thammasaro, abbot of Wat Meuk Daiyawan). After extensive travels through multiple provinces, he eventually arrived in Bangkao Subdistrict, Cha-am. At that time, Wat Tonod Luang lacked an abbot, and local residents who met him were so impressed they invited him to serve as abbot in 1904.

He dedicated himself to Buddhist advancement, restoring the dilapidated Wat Tonod Luang to its former glory. Driven by compassion, he also established Wat Chang Thang Krajad, Wat Tha Kham, and Wat Khao Look Chang. In education, he funded the construction of school buildings on three occasions.

Possessed of exceptional virtue and knowledge of ancient medicine, as well as occult expertise, he attracted widespread reverence. He became especially famous for sacred tattoo marking and mystical incantations, drawing local residents and disciples from distant regions who sought his services. His hut overflowed with students, and even prominent national figures—including Field Marshal Prayut Pahonpholpayuhsena and Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram—revered him and sought his teachings and spiritual markings.

For his manifold contributions to community development, the sangha appointed him as a Phra Kru, education committee member, and preceptor. He eventually received the royal title of Phra Kru Pinit Sut Khun. In 1915, he became abbot of Wat Tonod Luang. He passed away peacefully on December 13, 1957, at the age of eighty.

Regarding popular amulets, the Luang Pho Thong Suk Series 2 coin from Wat Tonod Luang is highly prized in amulet collecting circles. These coins were created in 1955 for a temple cell celebration and cast in three types: gold, silver, and copper, with no documented production numbers. Series 2 coins became more popular than Series 1 due to their superior facial features and design.

Thunakaert Chanchum, manager of the National Sports Development Fund, announced preparations to compile feedback from all stakeholders regarding direct allowance transfers to athletes following the National Youth Games.

The initiative addresses ongoing issues with delayed athlete payments under the previous system. The National Sports Development Fund has begun testing a new payment distribution model by transferring allowances directly to athletes, starting with the 6th Asian Beach Games in China in April and the 41st National Youth Games in Suratthani Province between May 7-17. The new approach has received both support and opposition.

Chanchum revealed that 99 percent of athletes are highly satisfied with the direct transfer arrangement, as the previous problem involved payment delays caused by the multi-step system. This year's approach transfers funds directly to sports associations and athletes. For the Asian Beach Games, disbursements reached 100 percent. Among provincial sports associations representing roughly 13,000 people, 60-70 percent received their allocations in the first round. The remaining recipients faced minor issues such as unfamiliarity with online systems, incomplete documentation, or lack of association chairman approval—matters requiring further clarification.

Chanchum noted that other management aspects still raise questions. Some coaches face difficulties receiving transfers due to various factors including system verification problems, incorrect data entry preventing approval, or young athletes unable to open bank accounts due to banking restrictions. Some prefer the previous system of payments through sports associations.

When asked whether direct transfers would continue for the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan from September 19 to October 4, the fund manager stated: "Ultimately, we need to reconsider the purpose and intent of allowances—who they're for and who should receive them, and what the benefits and drawbacks are. We're currently reviewing this matter and will present a comprehensive summary to the fund's board of directors by the end of May following the National Youth Games."

If you're searching for authentic seafood dining in Trat Province, don't miss 'Guan Seng 2 Restaurant,' located in Mai Rood Subdistrict, Khlong Yai District, Trat Province.

The restaurant has earned widespread recognition for its fresh seafood flavors and delectable menu that keeps customers returning without fail.

Signature dishes to order include soft shell crab curry powder—crispy crab tossed in rich curry powder with aromatic Thai spices and fresh sweetness that pairs perfectly with hot rice. Next is baked shrimp with agar noodles—plump shrimp with firm meat baked to perfection, the agar noodles absorbing the concentrated sauce for a balanced, authentic seafood taste that makes you want to order more immediately.

Those who love bold flavors should try the spicy seafood stir-fry, combining fish, squid, and shrimp with concentrated curry paste, perfectly balanced heat, and the aromatic notes of white pepper and Thai herbs that keep you coming back for another bite.

Another standout for those who prefer fresh flavors is the grilled seabass with herbs—large seabass grilled until the skin crisps, wrapped with fresh vegetables and condiments, drizzled with balanced herb sauce. This dish is both delicious and healthy, suitable for all ages.

Beyond these, there are many recommended dishes including black pepper soft shell crab, fish sauce-marinated shrimp, three-flavor mango seeds, lemongrass shrimp salad, crispy fish with chili, fish sauce-fried fish, fish stir-fried with garlic greens, steamed seabass with soy sauce, spicy seafood stir-fry, clear and rich seafood soup, fresh shrimp lemongrass salad, salt-baked shrimp, battered fried shrimp, roasted chili squid, squid with salty egg, fried chicken wings, garlic fried pork, kale stir-fry with salted fish, morning glory stir-fry, and herbed tofu.

Guan Seng 2 excels not just in taste but also in atmosphere—warm and welcoming with smiling staff, making every meal a memorable experience.

Open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM for those wanting to enjoy meals anytime. Interested diners can contact or reserve a table at 08-1945-9855.

Rest assured that every dish you order will impress you from the first bite to the last.

Mangrove forests that once flourished are now fading into memory for coastal communities, especially in Tha Chalom, Bang Yai, and Mahachai districts of Samut Sakhon Province, where residents grew up surrounded by lush green mangrove walls protecting canals and shorelines like natural barriers. Mangroves were never just plants but essential to the way of life—serving as food sources, homes, and cultivating deep bonds in people's hearts.

For older generations, mangrove trees represented everything. Their leaves covered roofs of houses, boat sheds, and temporary shelters due to their excellent resistance to sun and rain. Trunks and stems were crafted into basketware like mats, baskets, and rope. As food, tender mangrove shoots—called "homyai"—were natural sweets children looked forward to. Leaves were also used to wrap traditional sweets and sticky rice, while nectar from mangrove flowers was boiled into mangrove sugar or fermented into traditional beverages.

"When I was a child, adults would go into the mangrove forest and cut shoots to place in front of us children sitting in a circle. We'd scrape and eat them with spoons while they'd gather piles of mangroves. This happened regularly, and the memory stays with me," recalls Tukata Darunee, a native of Samut Sakhon Province. Simple as the image of children sitting in a circle eating mangrove shoots may seem, it reflects the profound relationship between people and nature. Mangrove forests weren't merely resources but learning spaces, places to live, and venues for passing bonds from generation to generation.

Today, extensive mangrove areas have been converted to residential developments, factories, or abandoned due to rising land taxes. Many landowners have been forced to sell or transform their land into alternative agricultural uses. Mangrove forests have steadily declined year after year, transforming from continuous green expanse into scattered patches.

"Two years ago when Tung Saengdawan filmed at Mahachai mangroves, I estimated only 50% of the original forest remained. Today, I believe it's down to just 20%," says Kim Jirapun, vice chairman of the Betta Fish Association, with evident concern. "We're not just worried about disappearing local resources, but local wildlife species face extinction too, like the Mahachai wild betta fish that depend on mangrove forests to survive."

Mangrove forests are more than human habitats—they're critical ecosystems for aquatic animals and countless species, especially the Mahachai wild betta fish that depend on brackish water beneath mangrove shade for survival. If mangroves disappear, these creatures cannot survive.

The loss of mangrove forests represents more than vanishing greenery; it's the simultaneous loss of culture, lifestyle, and biodiversity.