On April 26, 2025, the Pheu Thai Party held its annual general assembly at Prince of Songkla University's Pattani campus amid heightened political tensions in the southern border region. Party leader Deputy Police General Thawee Sodsong opened the meeting by addressing threats against party members, specifically the murder-for-hire incident targeting Nakhon Si Thammarat MP Kamlasak Leewamao, a law and human rights specialist, which has drawn significant public attention.

Thawee stated that although police have arrested five suspects, investigations reveal they are merely hired operatives following orders passed down through intermediaries. "In this contract killing case, evidence is difficult to obtain due to its secretive nature, but we cannot let this matter end without identifying the true instigators and masterminds. This is an attempt to destroy a political party. Kamlasak is an MP focused on law and human rights. If the party cannot pursue this to the fullest extent, the public will lose confidence in the justice system," Thawee declared.

The party leader revealed that evidence suggests "larger masterminds beyond the five arrested" are involved, based on information conveyed by suspects through relatives and legal advisors during custody. He called for thorough investigation of communications systems and financial trails, noting the attack was meticulously planned.

Thawee also criticized security agencies whose "thinking" views political party organizing as a threat to national security, arguing such views contradict democratic principles and Article 45 of the Constitution protecting freedom to establish political parties. "Some believe that political parties formed by people uniting in local areas are enemies of security. This thinking doesn't work because the Constitution is the supreme law. Anything contradicting the Constitution falls away. I want to convey to security agencies that anyone entering parliamentary politics through people's election is the beauty of the system," he stated.

Thawee questioned those spreading distorted information about the case, suggesting they may be nervously involved in or connected to the criminal network, while emphasizing all evidence is scientifically verifiable.

Meanwhile, Kamlasak revealed his team has spent over a month analyzing the case and gathering evidence meticulously, discovering indicators that the number of conspirators may exceed the five initially identified. "We've obtained and analyzed information about various behaviors in the operation. Much suggests more than these five were involved, but most importantly, we refuse to accuse anyone without clear evidence," Kamlasak stated.

The Nakhon Si Thammarat MP acknowledged the case's high complexity, as contract killing cases are notoriously difficult to trace to the true instigators without testimony from those directly involved.

On Sunday, March 29, 2569 at 9:09 AM at Wat Suan Tham Piti (Tham Utayan) in Kalasin Province, Phra Thep Wattharatham Sophon, also known as Luang Pu Sila Sirijanto, the abbot of Wat Phra That Muen Hin, presided over the lighting of the consecration candles for the blessing ceremony of the first edition of the 'Phra Khun Phan Langsuea' amulets. Phra Kru Sangkharak Thierchai Thirawangso served as the officer extinguishing the candles. The ceremony drew devotees, disciples of Luang Pu Sila, and the general public in large numbers, with many placing substantial orders for the amulets. The atmosphere was lively and bustling.

Before the ceremony began, the ritual pavilion was extremely hot and humid. However, as soon as Luang Pu Sila lit the candles and commenced the blessing ceremony, which lasted approximately 30 minutes, a cool breeze began flowing through the space, transforming the oppressive heat into pleasant coolness. Many participants reported goosebumps, with some raising their hands in reverence and chanting blessings. Many believed this phenomenon was due to the sacred power of these amulets.

According to Noprat Bunsaentrakul, a disciple of Luang Pu Sila, the 'Phra Khun Phan Langsuea' amulets were created collaboratively by three groups of disciples: Team Pu Suea, Pom Sakon Nakhon, and Niphatthorn Smart Image.

Previously, three blessing ceremonies had been conducted: the first on February 7, 2569 at Wat Lahrai in Rayong Province; the second on March 3, 2569 at Wat Suan Tham Piti; and the third on March 8, 2569, also at Wat Suan Tham Piti, where the auspicious water was blessed and distributed.

The fourth and final consecration ceremony received the grace of Luang Pu Sila and four venerable monks in meditation and blessing.

The purpose of creating these amulets is to encourage Buddhist devotees to contribute to the construction of a road around Wat Suan Tham Piti and to support the construction of a chedi at the temple, thereby preserving and promoting Buddhism. The amulets were created using 23 different sacred materials. Pre-orders have been met with excellent response, as amulets blessed by Luang Pu Sila are highly sought after by collectors.

This edition is particularly significant as it combines the spiritual power and merit of two renowned monks: Luang Pu Tim of Wat Lahrai and Luang Pu Sila. Remarkably, during the final blessing ceremony, several extraordinary phenomena occurred: the initially oppressive heat was replaced by a constant cool breeze throughout the ritual, and after Phra Kru Sangkharak Thierchai extinguished the ceremonial candles, the flames suddenly reignited, causing astonished reactions from attendees. The monk then requested permission from Luang Pu Sila to extinguish the candles again before they were finally extinguished. Many believers attribute these phenomena to the sacred power of the 'Phra Khun Phan Langsuea' amulets, interpreting them as signs of powerful merit and blessing for the devotees.

Experts predict this will be one of the most sought-after amulet editions, especially considering that Luang Pu Sila had previously nicknamed it 'Suea Man Dang' (The Roaring Tiger) before this blessing ceremony, referring to its powerful and auspicious qualities.

By Yuttana Kiatdamroenggam

Luang Pho Soot Siridharo, former abbot of Wat Kalong in Samut Sakhon province, was an exceptionally accomplished Buddhist scholar and amulet master. Originally named Soot Sattayatang, he was born on May 8, 1886, in Phon Phrai District, Roi Et province. He ordained as a novice at age 16 at Wat Klang in Phon Phrai under Phra Kru Mao as his preceptor, and received full ordination at age 20 on June 20, 1922.

After his ordination, he undertook forest pilgrimages throughout various regions, eventually settling at Wat Kalong in Samut Sakhon where local residents invited him to spend the Buddhist Lent. During his travels, he studied under numerous renowned teachers, including Luang Pho Rung Tissaro of Wat Tha Krabue in Samut Sakhon and Luang Pho Kong Thammachoto of Wat Bang Kaphom in Samut Songkhram. He developed expertise in Lao and Khmer languages, knowledge essential for surviving the harsh journey through the dense northeastern forests.

Luang Pho Soot became widely revered for his extraordinary Buddhist scholarship and eventually achieved great fame as the spiritual teacher of a notorious bandit leader, whom he allegedly protected through sacred amulets. He also became the original master of the takrut (sacred inscribed scroll) yantra, particularly famous for its protective qualities promoting spiritual stability and perseverance.

Luang Pho Soot explained the takrut yantra's significance: "The takrut represents resilience and endurance. As a child, I was fascinated by the Takrut sport. After injuring myself attempting it, I conceived the idea of creating a beautiful yantra script unique to this form. I observed children playing with takrut in Wat Kalong's courtyard and drew designs based on the weaving patterns, perfecting them over time. The key principle was combining beauty with durability and strength—representing human resilience and perseverance. A takrut withstands countless impacts without breaking, yet those who strike it find themselves in pain. This embodies life's philosophy: perseverance combined with artistry."

His design artistry in the takrut yantra was exceptional, featuring elegant Khmer script calligraphy and exquisitely beautiful patterns. He achieved ecclesiastical rank in 1947 as a First Class Ecclesiastical Certificate holder, advanced to Second Class in 1968, and received royal promotion to First Class in 1974, retaining his title Phra Kru Samut Tham Sunthon. He passed away peacefully on August 14, 1983, at age 81.

Luang Pho Soot created numerous revered sacred objects, most notably the takrut yantra with protective and stabilizing spiritual properties. In 1974, on the occasion of his 72nd birthday celebration, he commissioned the creation of the renowned "Tiger Stripe" amulet medal (Liam Suea Phan). This oval-shaped amulet features a meditating Buddha figure in full lotus position on one side, with distinctive side designs completing the composition.

On April 26, 2025, Dr. Suphareuk Vicharanyanan, known as "Doctor Oak" on his DoctorSixpack page, posted a warning about the popular breakfast combination of hot fried dough (patongko) paired with sweet sticky rice custard (khao niao sangkhaya). While many people enjoy this convenient and filling breakfast, eating it regularly can gradually damage your health without you realizing it.

The doctor identified five main health risks:

1. Rapid Blood Sugar Spikes and Diabetes Risk The combination of sticky rice, custard, and fried flour creates high carbohydrates and sugar, causing blood sugar to rise quickly, leading to fatigue, early hunger, and increased long-term diabetes risk.

2. High Fat Content Fried dough is particularly problematic, especially when cooked in repeatedly used oil, which increases trans fats and raises cholesterol levels, potentially causing arterial blockage and heart disease.

3. Easy Calorie Excess and Unnoticed Weight Gain While filling initially, this meal contains very high energy. If consumed regularly without burning off the calories, belly fat accumulates easily.

4. Short-Lived Fullness and Frequent Hunger Despite initial satiation, the unbalanced nutrition with low protein and fiber content leads to quick hunger and constant snacking throughout the day.

5. Sluggish Digestion The combination of fried food, sugar, and low fiber can cause bloating, constipation, and digestive problems.

Recommendations for safer consumption: - Reduce frequency to once or twice weekly - Decrease the custard and sweet portions - Add boiled eggs, unsweetened milk, or fruit - Alternate with breakfasts high in protein and fiber

Seven diseases with increased risk: 1. Type 2 Diabetes - High sugar and starch cause frequent blood sugar spikes 2. High Cholesterol - Fried foods and coconut milk contain high saturated fats 3. Heart and Cardiovascular Disease - Combined effects of high fat, excess weight, and high blood sugar 4. High Blood Pressure - Weight gain and fat accumulation strain the heart and blood vessels 5. Obesity and Fatty Liver Disease - Daily excess energy accumulates as belly and liver fat 6. Acid Reflux and Indigestion - Fried foods digest slowly and trigger stomach discomfort 7. Constipation and Poor Digestion - Very low fiber slows intestinal function

Thanaphat Skultatron of Prime19 Team claimed a double championship in road racing, winning both the men's open category and the under-23 men's division at the fourth stage of Thailand's National Road and Mountain Bike Championships held in Pong Nam Ron District, Chanthaburi on April 26. Petchdarin Somrat secured the women's open title. The event was presided over by Kessem Kesamsri, Tap Sai Subdistrict Mayor, with Rear Admiral Thitporn Noirak, Secretary-General of the Thai Cycling Association, and other provincial officials in attendance.

General Decha Megkrasri, Chairman of the Thai Cycling Association, reported strong participation due to intense point competition among athletes vying for the royal trophy before the final stage at Bhumibol Dam in Tak Province. Youth riders aged 14-17 also entered in large numbers as the association will select team members for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal in October-November. Megkrasri expressed gratitude to Chanthaburi Province, local authorities, and community volunteers who supported the event and promoted the local economy through increased resort bookings and fruit sales.

Deputy Governor Thawatchai Namsamut noted this marked the 11th consecutive year Chanthaburi hosted the national championships, boosting local business and promoting public health. In the men's open road race (121 km), Thanaphat Skultatron won in 2:48:32, with Ali Ilyas Jawaid from Pakistan in second and Nathapol Chamchat in third. In the under-23 men's category, Thanaphat again won in 2:48:32, securing his double title. In the women's open race (82 km), Petchdarin Somrat of the Ministry of Defense office won in 2:19:20, with Phithayaporn Saetua of the Thai national team finishing second at 2:19:23 and Chaniporn Battriya in third at 2:20:44.

On April 26, rescue workers received a call from Sompon Phuphichit, 64, reporting a large python coiled on a steel beam above his kitchen in the Kuang Luang neighborhood of Muang District, Saraburi Province. His pet cat had gone missing and was likely swallowed by the snake. Upon arrival, rescuers found the python motionless on the beam with a visibly swollen belly. Using a stick to position the snake and a noose device to capture its head, they secured the python.

Examination revealed the snake had indeed swallowed the cat, rendering it immobile. The python measured nearly 3 meters in length. The cat's owner, enraged and grief-stricken, retrieved an iron rod intending to kill the snake in revenge. However, rescue workers stopped her, explaining that pythons are protected wildlife under Thai law. The rescue team then bagged the python for release back into nature.

The cat owner, identified as Ms. Tim, tearfully recounted her despair. The cat, named Miw, was a white cat with blue eyes that she had adopted and raised for one year. Miw had an affectionate and adorable personality. The homeowner also shared his heartbreak, noting that Miw was a street cat he had taken in and cherished deeply. He had another cat at home that had recently given birth to five kittens, which were kept in a cage, while Miw had been allowed to roam freely inside the house.