Police

Police Dismantle 'maruay 365' Illegal Gambling Network with Annual Turnover of 480 Million Baht

Thai police have dismantled the 'maruay 365' online gambling network operating from Mae Sot in Tak Province, which generated approximately 480 million baht annually with over 64,000 members. A 33-year-old former police officer was arrested for serving as an administrator and managing customer relations for the illegal operation. Investigators seized computer equipment and mobile devices, and the suspect faces charges under the Computer Crime Act.

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On May 14, 2025, Lieutenant General Surpol Prembut, commander of Provincial Police Region 4, ordered an investigation team led by Major General Kritasarn Bamrungrutnayos and other officers to conduct raids on targets related to online gambling in Tak Province. Using a warrant from Mae Sot Provincial Court (No. 93/2569), officers raided a residence in Mae Kasa Subdistrict, Mae Sot District, Tak Province, and arrested former Police Lieutenant Buawan Chammanee, 33, a Tak Province native. Investigators seized one computer, one mobile phone, and one internet router.

The investigation revealed that the 'maruay 365' website had over 64,000 members and had been operating for more than two years. The site generated approximately 40 million baht monthly, or 480 million baht annually, offering illegal online gambling services including lottery, slots, foreign football betting, baccarat, tiger-dragon, high-low dice, and other games.

During questioning, Buawan admitted to working as an administrator managing customer communications for the gambling site for over three months, earning 20,000 baht monthly. He faces charges under the Computer Crime Act for operating an illegal online gambling platform and facilitating others' participation in gambling without authorization.

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Breaking

Wild elephant kills patrol leader in Buriram village

A 66-year-old wildlife patrol leader in Buriram province was killed by a wild elephant in the early morning hours while attempting to drive the animals away from a village near Dong Yai forest. The incident highlights growing tensions between villages and elephant populations, with residents reporting that such attacks have become increasingly frequent as displaced elephants regularly enter communities searching for food. Local authorities face mounting pressure to address the escalating human-wildlife conflict in the region.

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BURIRAM — On May 14, 2026, a Thai villager leading efforts to drive wild elephants away from communities near Dong Yai forest was killed after being attacked by an elephant inside a village in Buriram province, local residents said.

Weera Ratchawong, 66, chairman of the Dong Yai Wild Elephant Watch Network, was attacked at about 04:00 in Ban Khlong Hin Lat village in Non Din Daeng district while attempting to push elephants away from residential areas.

Residents living along the Dong Yai forest boundary said such incidents have become increasingly common, with several people reportedly killed by wild elephants each year as the animals frequently enter villages in search of food.

Prasit Jupamatang, 61, a wild elephant patrol officer in the Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary, said he arrived after receiving reports of the attack but found Weera had already died.

Weera's wife said local elephant patrol volunteers normally travel in groups of 14 when responding to villager reports, but her husband often went out alone. She said elephants had entered the village several times during the night before the fatal attack, with Weera leaving alone again shortly before 04:00.

Manat Yiamram, village headman of Ban Khlong Hin Lat, said wild elephants enter the community almost every day, usually in groups of one to three animals.

He said villagers are living in fear and called on authorities to address the situation more seriously, adding that residents believe the elephant population has grown beyond the forest's capacity and that fatal attacks occur in nearby communities every year.

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National

Zhao Lusi boosts Thai brand FUNDAO in viral post

Chinese actress Zhao Lusi sparked a viral social media sensation after being photographed with a handbag from Thai fashion brand FUNDAO, propelling the Thai designer's "AVA mini" bag to international "it bag" status. The celebrity endorsement from the beloved actress, who has a strong following in Thailand, has significantly boosted awareness of Thai fashion design globally and reinforced Thailand's growing soft power in the fashion industry.

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BANGKOK — 14 May 2026, Chinese actress Zhao Lusi, affectionately known to fans as "Rosy", has sparked a social media frenzy after appearing with a handbag from Thai fashion brand FUNDAO, drawing attention from both Thai and international media.

Thai fashion value soars after the Asian superstar, who has long enjoyed a warm reception from fans during visits to Thailand, was recently photographed carrying a handbag from Thai brand FUNDAO while posing with her favorite dachshund doll. This latest display of soft power continues to elevate Thai fashion's presence in the international arena.

Zhao paired a lace camisole-style outfit and the minimalist "AVA mini" handbag in Ivory, designed by Thai designer Yin-Fundao Baesakul. The bag creates an elegant aesthetic associated with the "Quiet Luxury" look, featuring its minimalist yet distinctive butterfly-wing silhouette and detailed handcrafted elements. Zhao's "ROSYDOEDIAN TOYS" plushie also made a cameo, adding a cute, playful touch that sent social media into a frenzy.

Fans were quick to take notice, instantly rushing to identify the bag and hailing it as the latest "it bag" after Zhao was seen using it. While FUNDAO had already gained recognition among international fashion circles and had been adopted by fashion enthusiasts worldwide, Zhao's endorsement is being viewed as another significant moment for Thailand's soft power movement. The attention generated by the actress has not only created excitement among fans but also intensified interest in Thai fashion in both domestic and international markets, marking another milestone for global recognition of Thai designers.

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Breaking

Professor steals "King Taksin sword", blames mental blackout

Thai police recovered a ceremonial sword associated with King Taksin that was stolen from Wat Nang Phraya temple in Nakhon Si Thammarat on May 12. A 40-year-old university assistant professor was identified as the suspect and claimed he had taken the valuable artifact without realizing what he was doing, citing mental health issues. The suspect is currently receiving psychiatric evaluation, and authorities plan to proceed with legal action following his medical assessment.

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NAKHON SI THAMMARAT — 14 May 2026, Thai police said they had recovered a ceremonial sword associated with King Taksin, the 18th-century Siamese king credited with reunifying Thailand after the fall of Ayutthaya, after it was allegedly stolen from a temple in southern Thailand by a university assistant professor who later claimed he had taken it unknowingly.

The theft was discovered on 12 May after staff at Wat Nang Phraya in Nakhon Si Thammarat found that two sacred items had gone missing from temple buildings.

The missing items included a ceremonial "King Taksin sword" displayed inside the Mae Nang Phraya shrine and valued at about 30,000 baht. Temple officials said the sword had previously been donated by a devotee in fulfilment of a vow.

A red crystal orb valued at about 2,500 baht was also reported missing from the Jatukham Ramathep shrine within the temple grounds.

Police said security camera footage showed the suspect entering the temple during the morning while the area was relatively quiet before leaving with the items.

Investigators later identified the suspect as a 40-year-old assistant professor at a well-known university. Officers traced him to a house in Ron Phibun district, where his parents told police he had been receiving psychiatric treatment linked to family-related stress at Songklanagarind Hospital.

According to police, the suspect claimed he had taken the sword "without realising what he was doing".

Authorities said the man became agitated during discussions with officers and verbally confronted Phra Khru Palat Boonrit Wijjadharo, abbot of Wat Nang Phraya, in front of police before being restrained and transferred to Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital for further examination.

Police said legal proceedings would continue following medical evaluation.

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Tourism

Chinese Tourist Shocked as Monkey Steals Phone and Takes Selfies, Fills Device with Videos

A Chinese tourist's phone was stolen by a mischievous monkey in Bali, but local authorities recovered it after two hours. To his surprise, the device contained hundreds of accidental photos and videos the monkey had taken, including a 23-second clip that appeared to be the monkey documenting its own jungle life, which went viral online.

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A Chinese tourist had an unforgettable Bali experience when a monkey snatched his smartphone right out of his hands and nearly sent it tumbling off a cliff. Fortunately, the phone was recovered, but when he checked his photo album, he found a major surprise that went viral online.

According to the tourist known as "Hu," the incident occurred on May 11 while he was visiting a popular tourist spot on the island of Bali. Suddenly, a monkey rushed in and grabbed his phone, then quickly ran off.

After the incident, he immediately sought help from local staff, who warned him to prepare himself as the monkey might throw the phone off a cliff, making recovery impossible. However, about two hours later, the staff successfully retrieved the phone.

But the story didn't end there. When Hu opened his photo album, he discovered numerous photos that appeared to have been taken randomly, along with a 23-second video clip that looked like the monkey was vlogging its own life.

He believes that after the monkey grabbed the phone, it accidentally tapped the camera shortcut on the screen, causing the phone to inadvertently record images and videos of the monkey's jungle life while it was running away.

After posting the clip on social media, it went viral instantly. Many netizens shared similar experiences of having glasses, hats, or headphones stolen by monkeys, joking that these monkeys were "gang thieves of the tourist destination."

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National

Phisadej Reveals Screening Committee Has Discussed 400 Billion Baht Loan Authorization—No Need to Wait for Parliament Procedures

Government Minister Phisadej Pirisanananthakoet announced that the 400 billion baht emergency loan authorization is already in effect and the screening committee has begun deliberations, allowing implementation to proceed without waiting for further parliamentary approval. The emergency decree, published in the Royal Gazette on May 8, was designed to address energy crisis impacts and facilitate Thailand's energy transition. Parliamentary procedures will continue once the Constitutional Court issues its ruling.

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On May 14, 2569, even as Parliament has not yet approved the emergency decree (Royal Decree) authorizing the Ministry of Finance to borrow funds to address the energy crisis impacts and facilitate the country's energy transition—the 400 billion baht loan authorization—Minister Phisadej Pirisanananthakoet, attached to the Prime Minister's Office, stated that the government can continue moving forward. This is because the 400 billion baht emergency loan decree came into effect upon its publication in the Royal Gazette on May 8. On May 14 in the afternoon, the screening committee overseeing the use of borrowed funds under this emergency decree held its first meeting and can proceed accordingly. Meanwhile, parliamentary procedures will await the Constitutional Court's ruling.

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National

Kia Launches May Campaign with Exceptional Value Across All Vehicle Models

Kia Sales Thailand has unveiled its May campaign offering significant discounts across its entire vehicle lineup, including the EV5 electric SUV, Sorento PHEV, and Carnival models. Buyers can enjoy special pricing along with comprehensive warranty coverage up to 8 years and round-the-clock emergency support. Interested customers can visit official Kia dealers throughout Thailand to test drive vehicles or check www.kia.com/th for more information.

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Kia Sales Thailand is launching its May campaign with valuable offers covering the entire Kia lineup to meet the needs of Thai customers across all lifestyles. This campaign demonstrates Kia's confidence in its product range and reinforces its position as an intelligent choice for customers seeking world-class vehicles with excellent value and long-term ownership benefits. Special offers are presented for each model as follows: The Kia EV5, a 100% electric SUV equipped with advanced cabin technology, features a special price starting at 1.08 million baht (Air trim after 319,000 baht discount). The Kia Sorento PHEV is a three-row, six-seat SUV combining plug-in hybrid performance with premium comfort and AWD capability at a special price of 1.499 million baht (after 600,000 baht discount). The New Kia Carnival HEV offers luxurious hybrid driving, ideal for families and executives, with a 200,000 baht discount. The Kia Carnival Diesel SXL continues to set the standard as a premium MPV, available with a 595,000 baht discount (for Astra Blue color). Beyond attractive pricing, Kia strengthens ownership confidence with comprehensive care packages including up to 7 years of vehicle warranty, up to 8 years of high-voltage battery warranty, and 24-hour emergency assistance service. Customers can now experience and test drive all Kia models at official dealers nationwide or visit www.kia.com/th for additional details.

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National

Thai Airways Takes Flight with Q1 2025 Net Profit Exceeding 10 Billion Baht

Thai Airways reported solid first-quarter 2025 results with net profit surpassing 10 billion baht despite a 1.2 percent revenue decline to 51.03 billion baht. The airline maintained strong operating margins at 26.9 percent and improved profitability year-over-year through effective cost management and one-time gains. With 80 aircraft in operation and an 83.1 percent passenger load factor, the company strengthened its financial position with equity rising 16.7 percent from year-end.

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Thai Airways Public Company Limited announced its first-quarter 2025 operating results with total revenue of 51,029 million baht, down 596 million baht or 1.2 percent from the same period last year due to lower production and transportation volumes. However, average revenue per passenger remained close to prior-year levels despite baht appreciation impacts, demonstrating strong pricing management. Total operating expenses reached 37,282 million baht, a 1.8 percent decrease from lower jet fuel costs proportional to reduced production volumes, along with baht strength benefits.

Operating profit before financing costs stood at 13,747 million baht, up 0.6 percent from last year, with an EBIT margin of 26.9 percent. Finance costs decreased to 2,987 million baht, down 494 million baht year-over-year. One-time items generated net gains of 1,088 million baht, primarily from aircraft lease cancellations and derivative valuations, resulting in net profit of 10,107 million baht against 9,839 million baht previously, with EBITDA of 17,548 million baht.

As of March 31, 2025, the airline operated 80 aircraft with average utilization of 13.8 hours per aircraft daily, carrying 4.18 million passengers total. Available seat kilometers (ASK) totaled 17,389 million, down 1.9 percent year-over-year, while revenue passenger kilometers (RPK) reached 14,453 million, down 2.2 percent, resulting in a load factor of 83.1 percent versus 83.3 percent previously. Total assets increased to 324,542 million baht, up 6.7 percent from year-end 2024, while shareholders' equity rose 16.7 percent to 88,622 million baht, with cash and liquid financial assets totaling 132,320 million baht.

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Breaking

Thai Employee Attacks Vietnamese Boss with Knife Over Argument, Nearly Fatal

A Thai man working at a mobile meatball food cart attacked his Vietnamese employer with a knife over a dispute about purchasing a grindstone for his motorcycle sidecar on May 14, 2025. The Vietnamese man sustained serious injuries including a throat laceration but survived. Police arrested the 45-year-old suspect at the scene and charged him with attempted murder.

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A Thai employee working a mobile meatball food cart became furious when his Vietnamese employer refused to purchase a grindstone for his motorcycle sidecar. In a drunken rage, he grabbed a knife and slashed his boss's throat, nearly killing him.

At 11:00 AM on May 14, 2025, Deputy Sergeant Atsit Rungchet of Rattanakosin Police Station received a report of an assault with an injury victim. The incident occurred on Nonthaburi Soi 48, Branch 9 in Tha Trai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Nonthaburi Province. Officers rushed to the scene.

The incident took place at a two-story townhouse used as a meatball preparation and sales location, with a motorcycle sidecar food cart parked in front. Signs of a violent struggle were visible, including a fallen tree. The injured victim, Tuan Ho, 55, a Vietnamese national, received first aid from Nonthaburi municipal rescue workers. He sustained a knife wound to the throat, a fish-shaped laceration, and multiple abrasions from the struggle. He was transferred to Phra Nang Klao Hospital.

Police arrested the suspect at the scene: Jamrus, 45, from Kalasin Province, who was found in a state of intoxication. A fruit peeler knife was seized as evidence. The suspect confessed to the assault while intoxicated, claiming he wanted the grindstone to sell better goods from his cart, but the victim refused to buy it for him. He admitted to slashing the victim's throat, intending to kill him, but the victim survived.

Nguyen Thi Thao, 42, the victim's wife, stated she was on the second floor when she heard her husband arguing with Jamrus, the Thai employee. The suspect had been living with them despite lacking a permanent residence. She noted that he had been drinking and bringing women into the house. That morning, he had asked her husband for the grindstone, but when refused, he became drunk and aggressive. She recalled he had previously hit and kicked her husband and slapped a friend, but this time he acted with extreme violence.

Police initially charged Jamrus with attempted murder. He was detained along with the knife evidence and transferred to Rattanakosin Police Station in Nonthaburi for further legal proceedings.

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National

Trump Praises Chinese President as 'Great Leader' as Xi Jinping Urges US to Be Partner, Not Rival

During a high-profile bilateral meeting in Beijing, US President Donald Trump praised Chinese President Xi Jinping as a 'great leader,' while Xi warned that mishandling the Taiwan issue could lead to serious conflicts between the two nations. The contrasting tones highlight significant disagreements on sensitive issues including Iran, trade, and Taiwan relations. Xi called for the US and China to be partners rather than rivals and to avoid what he termed the 'Thucydides Trap' of great power conflict.

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US President Donald Trump told Chinese President Xi Jinping it was 'a great honor to be your friend' during a highly-publicized bilateral meeting, while China's leader warned of potential conflicts between the two nations. The stark differences in tone reveal the two leaders remain far apart on sensitive issues including the Iran war, trade disputes, and US relations with Taiwan. Though the meeting was closed-door, China's Xinhua news agency reported that Xi warned Trump that mishandling the Taiwan question could lead to clashes and conflicts that would jeopardize the entire relationship.

These warnings came after Trump's public opening remarks at the Great Hall of the People, where he praised Xi lavishly. 'You are a great leader. Sometimes people may not like me saying this, but I will say it because it is the truth. It is a great honor to be with you. It is a great honor to be your friend,' Trump said, adding that 'the relationship between China and the United States will be better than it has ever been.'

While Trump's tone was upbeat, Xi took a more cautious stance, expressing hope that the two nations could avoid conflict. The world is asking whether the two countries can overcome what Xi called the 'Thucydides Trap'—the concept that conflict often arises when a rising power threatens an established one.

Xi emphasized that cooperation benefits both sides while confrontation endangers both. 'The two countries should be partners, not rivals. Work together to achieve success, pursue common prosperity, and chart the right course for the relationship between two great powers in a new era,' Xi stressed.

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Weather

Alert: High Tidal Surge Expected May 17-21, Seven Provinces Face Flooding Risk on Major Roads

Thailand's Department of Natural Resources has issued a tidal surge warning for May 17-21, with seven provinces including Bangkok and surrounding areas facing potential flooding. High sea levels driven by seasonal winds could inundate low-lying communities and major thoroughfares, while saltwater intrusion threatens drinking water and agricultural resources.

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The Department of Natural Resources Water Administration issued a warning on May 14 about high tidal conditions expected between May 17-21. Southern winds and southwest monsoon winds over the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand will intensify waves, raising water levels at river mouths and potentially causing flooding in low-lying areas along the Chao Phraya, Mae Klong, and Tha Chin rivers. Communities outside flood barriers and major roads including Sukhumvit, Suksawat, and Rama II roads are at particular risk. Saltwater intrusion poses additional concerns for drinking water quality and agricultural areas. Relevant agencies are urged to monitor conditions in Samut Prakan, Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Sakhon, Nakhon Pathom, and Samut Songkhram provinces.

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