Lanta & News
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Police

Tone Bangkaew, Renowned Amulet Dealer, Files Complaint Against High-Ranking Police Officer Over Debt Collection Intimidation

Well-known amulet dealer Tone Bangkaew filed a complaint against a Deputy Inspector General, alleging the officer abused his authority to intimidate him into paying debts and canceled a prior agreement with creditors.

5 May Khaosod

Renowned amulet dealer Tone Bangkaew filed a complaint against a high-ranking police officer for allegedly using his authority to intimidate and force debt collection. Tone Bangkaew submitted a petition for justice to Police Chief Kittisak Panthepchart, alleging that Deputy Inspector General Charueon Kiarti Pankhaew, working with creditors, abused his official position to threaten and compel debt payment, and canceled an existing debt agreement with creditors on May 1st. On May 5, 2569, at 10:00 a.m., the 43-year-old amulet dealer accompanied by his lawyer arrived at Phaholyothin Police Station to file charges alleging intimidation and forced debt collection by a senior police officer. Tone Bangkaew briefly told the media that he came forward due to pressure and intimidation to pay debts, but did not initially specify who would face charges before entering to file his complaint. Investigators subsequently conducted a detailed interrogation of Tone Bangkaew. Phaholyothin Police Station informed that if the accused is a high-ranking officer, investigators will compile evidence from the complainant's statement and submit it to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for investigation and legal proceedings, as this case involves a high-ranking government official. Further case details will become clear only after the interrogation is completed.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Deputy Agriculture Minister Declines to Form Inquiry Committee, Summons Fisheries Director to Clarify 'Thailand fishAI' Issues

Thailand's Deputy Minister of Agriculture has summoned the Fisheries Department Director to explain discrepancies and cost overruns in the 'Thailand fishAI' application project. The Deputy Minister declined to establish an investigation committee without first reviewing project details, citing the need to understand the project's background and budgeting decisions based on public complaints.

5 May Khaosod

At 9:15 AM on May 5, 2025, at Government House, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Watcharapol Khaokhram announced the summons of Fisheries Department Director-General Tithiporn Luaprasert to clarify issues surrounding the Thailand fishAI application, which has reportedly encountered discrepancies and faced scrutiny over inflated procurement budgets. Khaokhram stated that he initially wants to review the project documentation before making any determinations, as he lacks full familiarity with the details and needs to understand the project's background. When asked whether an investigation committee would be formed, Khaokhram replied that he first needs to examine the specifics before deciding on such measures. Regarding concerns that the application development budget may be excessive relative to its performance, Khaokhram noted he has received numerous public complaints and recommendations, prompting today's meeting with the Fisheries Director. He indicated that once he understands the details, further clarification will be provided.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
National

Prasit Concerned Over 400 Billion Baht Emergency Decree for Relief, Fears Blank Checks and Lack of Oversight

Prasit, a Pheu Thai opposition MP, expressed concern over a 400 billion baht emergency decree for relief, warning that its "scattered" approach and first-come-first-served registration may fail to reach the hardest-hit citizens in transport

5 May Khaosod

At 9:45 a.m. on May 5, 2025, at Parliament, Prasit Wattrasindhu, a Pheu Thai party MP and opposition coalition coordinator, spoke to the media about the opposition's monitoring of today's cabinet meeting. He called on the public to watch closely as the cabinet was expected to confirm which pending bills from the previous parliament would proceed, noting several important bills for public welfare such as the Clean Air Act, the Pollution Release and Transfer Register (PRTR) bill to address PM 2.5 and industrial pollution, the Trade Competition Act to tackle monopolies, and the Labor Protection Act to align worker rights with international standards.

Prasit noted that on May 4, the government coalition confirmed the Clean Air Act would be approved, which the opposition will scrutinize closely. If the cabinet fails to approve bills the opposition believes should pass, they will question relevant agencies and request the cabinet to reconsider, as another cabinet meeting is scheduled for May 12, still within the 60-day framework.

The opposition expressed significant concern over a 400 billion baht emergency decree entering cabinet consideration today. The funds are divided into two 200 billion baht portions: one for energy crisis relief and another for energy transition projects. Prasit stated that while the Democrats support crisis relief, they worry about the implementation details. Despite Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Finance Minister repeatedly claiming targeted relief measures, projects like Thailand Helps Thailand Plus appear to use a "scattered" approach rather than targeting the most affected populations.

Prasit expressed concern that first-come-first-served registration may fail to reach the hardest-hit citizens, with some sectors like transport and fishing potentially left behind. He noted the opposition shadow cabinet will meet with these sectors on May 6 to assess government measure effectiveness.

Further, Prasit questioned the Thailand Helps Thailand Plus program requiring 40% public contribution, arguing this may not align with the primary goal of relief and reducing living costs. He contended that such programs historically stimulate spending rather than address cost-of-living issues, making them potentially unsuitable for the current crisis. The second 200 billion baht portion for energy transition projects remained under discussion.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Community

Namo Goldsmith Apologizes and Clarifies Golden Buddha Amulet Controversy, Claims Discussion with Craftsman Already Occurred with Genuine Intent to Help

A Krabi goldsmith apologizes for confusion over testing a golden Buddha amulet, clarifying that a craftsman's revelation of a second recasting process explained why gold wasn't initially detected despite being inside the sealed amulet.

5 May Khaosod

Namo Goldsmith has posted an explanation regarding the controversy surrounding a golden Buddha amulet purportedly containing 50 baht of gold, insisting that discussions with the craftsman have already taken place and asserting that his intention was genuinely to help. The shop accepts all criticism.

On May 5, 2025, Namo Goldsmith's jewelry shop posted a clarification about the golden Buddha amulet drama, stating they will conduct a live stream with the craftsman again. The shop offers free metal testing for all customers, and many people bring items for testing daily.

The case began when a customer brought the amulet requesting verification of whether it was genuinely golden and contained at least 45 baht of gold. The customer video-called the abbot as a witness during the testing process, and the goldsmith recorded video documentation.

When tested, the exterior metal was found to be brass. The goldsmith explained in the video that only the outside could be tested—determining whether gold exists inside would require breaking or drilling the amulet. Since this is a temple property, the process requires multiple steps. He recommended that the abbot consult with the craftsman who performed the original casting, as they would have the most knowledge.

Both the abbot and the donor reported that during the casting ceremony, they witnessed gold being poured into the mold. The goldsmith believed this testing method would definitely detect any gold inside.

After this incident became news, the case was featured on a television program to verify and investigate further. The donor, the abbot, and the casting craftsman discussed the matter on the program. The goldsmith was pleased when the casting craftsman appeared and explained the casting process in detail.

On the program, the craftsman revealed that there had been a second melting and recasting. The craftsman and abbot were aware of this, but the donor was not informed—only experiencing the original casting ceremony. The craftsman explained that they had created a brass mold, poured gold inside, sealed it with plaster, which prevented detection equipment from finding the gold because the exterior appeared to be brass. Everyone on the program finally received the answer directly from the craftsman, finding clarity and relief in resolving their doubts. By now, the amulet has been cut open for verification, and the goldsmith is pleased to report that gold was indeed found.

Had the goldsmith known from the beginning that there was a second melting and recasting process, he could have provided additional recommendations to benefit everyone involved.

If any of the goldsmith's intentions or words caused anyone involved in this matter to misunderstand or make any errors, he apologizes sincerely. His genuine intention was to help.

He accepts all feedback to improve himself and develop further. For any errors pointed out, he welcomes the guidance.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Bedrock Analytics Drives Thai Municipalities Toward Smart Cities with AI and Big Data Solutions

Bedrock Analytics showcased AI and Big Data solutions at Thailand's Municipal Association conference aimed at transforming local governments into "Smart Cities" equipped to manage disasters and revenues more efficiently. The technology inte

5 May Khaosod

Bedrock Analytics (Bedrock Analytics) is advancing the capabilities of Thai local government organizations by demonstrating the potential of AI and Big Data technology at the Thai Municipal Association's 1/2569 conference, with the goal of transforming municipalities across the country into "Smart Cities" that are prepared to handle disasters promptly and manage local revenue efficiently.

Bedrock Analytics Limited, a subsidiary of AI and Robotics Ventures Limited (ARV), specializes in developing data management infrastructure and providing artificial intelligence platforms and location intelligence services. The company showcased its technology and innovations at the Thai Municipal Association's (TMA) first academic seminar of 2569 at Impact Challenger in Muang Thonburi, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul serving as the keynote speaker, alongside numerous municipal administrators and personnel from municipalities nationwide.

Amidst mounting and unpredictable disaster challenges, Bedrock Analytics recognizes the urgent need to place data at the center of city management, elevating municipal capacity as the frontline organizations closest to citizens. The goal is to shift from reactive problem-solving to precise and timely proactive planning.

Veeravat Rattanavaraaha, co-founder of Bedrock Analytics Limited, stated: "It's undeniable that we currently live in an era of climate variability and intensifying disasters. Reactive municipal management that waits for problems to occur before solving them is no longer viable. Bedrock Analytics aims to revolutionize city management into a new era, viewing 'data' as the best protective shield. We've integrated AI technology with location intelligence analysis to work together in real-time, enabling local agencies to accurately forecast risks, issue warnings, and develop proactive response plans. The key to advancing toward a 'Smart City' isn't just cutting-edge technology—it's the readiness to genuinely protect people's lives and property."

During the event, Bedrock Analytics presented solutions and digital platforms that enable municipalities to use data as the foundation for decision-making in city management, from disaster management to urban data analysis and local revenue collection optimization, including:

Comprehensive Smart Disaster Management Technology This technology transforms how local agencies handle flooding through a more systematic approach, supporting the complete cycle from preparedness before incidents through emergency response to post-flood recovery. The system's strength lies in integrating smart telemetry data with advanced area survey technology, processing and displaying comprehensive information through a single command center. This enables real-time risk assessment and disaster alerts while supporting emergency route planning and infrastructure damage assessment with efficiency and precision.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Krung Thai Bank Launches 18 New Depositary Receipts Focused on Global-Class Companies and Alternative Assets

Krung Thai Bank is launching 18 new Depositary Receipts covering technology, rare earth minerals, and consumer goods to give Thai investors easier access to global companies. Trading begins May 13, 2025.

5 May Khaosod

Krung Thai Bank is preparing to debut 18 new Depositary Receipts (DRs) covering technology, rare earth minerals, consumer goods, and future industries, providing Thai investors with convenient access to world-class companies.

Executive Ravint Bunyanusasn from Krung Thai Bank's Money Market and Capital Market Business Group stated that the bank is committed to developing investment products that make it easier for Thai investors to access quality global companies through the Thai stock market.

Most recently, the bank has issued 18 new Depositary Receipts for foreign securities, carefully selecting assets aligned with long-term growth mega-trends including digital technology, clean energy, modern consumption, and rare earth minerals that are crucial to future industries. The offering also includes alternative assets and gold-backed funds to help diversify risk and increase portfolio flexibility.

The new DR package covers 18 leading securities across four major industry groups:

Technology Group (4 securities): Led by SoftBank Group Corp. (SOFTBANK80), a Japanese telecommunications company that has expanded its role into global technology investments through SoftBank Vision Fund, holding stakes in OpenAI and major AI projects like Project Stargate. Also included are Arista Networks (ANET80), SanDisk Corporation (SNDK80), and Montage Technology (MONTAGE80).

Energy and Rare Earth Group (6 securities): Led by MP Materials Corp. (MP80), the only rare earth mining operator in the United States with government support to reduce dependence on China. Also included are NextEra Energy (NEE80), GE Vernova (GEV80), JL Mag Rare-Earth (JLMAG80), China Northern Rare Earth (Group) High-Tech (CNRE80), and SPDR® Gold Shares ETF (GOLDUS80).

Global Consumer Products Group (4 securities): Led by Midea Group (MIDEA80), a leading Chinese electrical appliance manufacturer expanding into robotics and industrial automation. Also included are Kweichow Moutai (MOUTAI80), Mao Geping Cosmetics (MAOGEP80), and Mixue Group (MIXUE80).

Future Industries Group (4 securities): Led by Coinbase Global (COIN80), a leading U.S. digital asset trading platform serving as both exchange and custodian for over 1,000 financial institutions worldwide. Also included are AbbVie (ABBV80), Rocket Lab Corporation (RKLB80), and The Boeing Company (BOEING80).

"The launch of these new DRs enhances opportunities for convenient, transparent, and standardized access to foreign investments, addressing Thai investors' needs at all market conditions. It enables investors to plan confidently and achieve their long-term financial goals," said Ravint.

Existing securities account holders can invest in Thai baht through the Streaming application immediately without pre-subscription. Those without securities accounts can open one independently through KTX on the Krungthai NEXT application, receiving the same benefits as direct foreign investment.

Trading of all 18 DRs will commence on May 13, 2025. DRs referencing Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Japanese stocks can be traded between 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM. DRs referencing U.S. stocks and U.S. ETFs can be traded in two sessions: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM – 2:45 AM (T+1).

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Community

The 1 Day Mini Showcase: Artists Bring Entertainment Through Mini Concerts Across Four Regions of Thailand

The 1, Thailand's leading digital lifestyle platform, is hosting "The 1 Day Mini Showcase" across four Central malls in May 2026 with mini concerts from popular artists PERSES, RYUJIN x PATJI, PIXXIE, and LATTE x KIM. The 1 members can enjoy exclusive activities, prizes, and discount coupons from partner retailers by showing their membership status at participating venues throughout the month.

5 May Khaosod

The 1, Thailand's number one digital lifestyle and loyalty platform under Central Group, is launching "The 1 Day Mini Showcase," a four-region nationwide tour under the "The 1 Day 2026" campaign—the year's biggest shopping phenomenon with month-long deals. Events will be held at Central Pattaya, Robinson Lifestyle Ratchaphruek, Central Chiangmai, and Central Udon, featuring mini concerts from PERSES, RYUJIN x PATJI, PIXXIE, and LATTE x KIM, along with activity booths, prizes, and discount coupons from Central malls, Tops, GO Wholesale, Thai Watsadu X BnB Home, Supersports, and Power Buy throughout May.

The 1 members simply need to show their membership status on The 1 APP or present their Central The One credit card to access special seating zones and enjoy exclusive activities during May 2026.

Schedule: - May 3: PERSES at Central Pattaya, 4:00 PM - May 9: RYUJIN x PATJI at Robinson Lifestyle Ratchaphruek, 4:00 PM - May 16: PIXXIE at Central Chiangmai, 4:00 PM - May 24: LATTE x KIM at Central Udon, 4:00 PM

Download The 1 APP from App Store, Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery to stay updated on news, promotions, and exclusive member benefits.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Fireworks Factory Explosion in Liuyang Kills 21, Injures Over 60

A major explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, central China killed at least 21 people and injured 61 others on May 4th. Rescue teams evacuated residents within a 3-kilometer radius and deployed nearly 500 personnel along with robots to search for survivors, while authorities investigate the cause and pursue accountability measures. The blast highlighted ongoing safety concerns in China's fireworks industry, following another deadly explosion at a fireworks facility in February.

5 May Khaosod

A devastating explosion at the Huasheng Fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan Province, has claimed at least 21 lives and injured 61 others. Nearly 500 rescue personnel were mobilized to search for survivors and treat the wounded, with robots deployed to help locate workers potentially trapped inside the facility. Authorities evacuated all residents within a 3-kilometer radius of the plant as a precaution. Police are investigating the cause and will pursue strict accountability measures against company officials responsible for the blast. Officials identified two gunpowder storage warehouses within the factory as high-risk areas and implemented safety measures including area humidification to prevent secondary explosions during rescue operations. The force of the blast was so powerful that windows in nearby residential buildings were shattered. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for an expedited search and rescue effort and ordered a thorough investigation to hold those responsible accountable. Liuyang, known as the world's largest fireworks manufacturing hub, has experienced repeated industrial accidents. In February, another fireworks shop explosion in Hunan Province killed 12 people and caused numerous injuries.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Wife Heartbroken: Buddhist Monk Has Affair with Her Husband, Intimate Chats Revealed, Even Proposes Three-Person Relationship

A woman discovered her husband of 23 years was having an affair with a Buddhist monk after finding intimate chats and explicit photos on his phone; the monk even proposed they live together as a polyamorous trio, forcing her to leave with j

5 May Khaosod

According to a report, a popular talk show discussed the case of a woman whose marriage collapsed after 23 years of marriage when she discovered her husband was secretly involved with a Buddhist monk. She was even pressured to accept a three-person relationship arrangement, causing immense pain. She left home with only 6,000 baht and sought help from a lawyer named Pattana for housing assistance.

The woman, known as Jah, explained that she had known her husband for 23 years and been legally married for about 5-6 years. Throughout their relationship, her husband had been caring and responsible, supporting their children well. He worked as a factory employee and later drove for a ride-sharing app. He was known as a kind and beloved person with no history of infidelity—until November 2568 (2025).

Her husband asked to borrow the car to pick up and drop off a monk for two consecutive days, claiming it was for a client. On the second day, he called her via video and sent a photo of the monk to confirm he had taken him to the temple in Korat. She didn't suspect anything then.

The truth emerged on New Year's Day when Jah saw her husband secretly chatting with someone, using the word "darling" and expressing affection. When she secretly checked his phone, the profile showed a man in a suit, but the messages contained New Year's wishes and declarations of deep love. She began monitoring his chats whenever he went to the bathroom. Initially, she thought it might be a woman using a man's photo, but by mid-January, she confirmed from photos and the profile's timeline that he was actually communicating with a Buddhist monk.

When she confronted her husband about the person's identity, he claimed it was a friend and said that saying "I love you" to the monk was an expression of faith, as the monk was a good person to talk to about everything. He admitted he no longer loved her.

Jah noted that her husband normally spoke to her casually using "I-you" language, but when talking to the monk, he spoke sweetly and referred to himself differently. She also had evidence of chats from February-March showing a clear sexual relationship, including explicit photos and sexual toy selections sent by the monk. Her husband responded: "Just touching yours would make me unable to control myself," which legal experts and the program host viewed as clear evidence of sexual activity.

Further evidence included photos of the monk wearing her husband's shirt while they went out to eat together. According to monastic discipline, this constitutes a violation known as "cross-dressing" or emulating a lay person's appearance, though it may not technically constitute disrobing unless there's intent to remain as a layperson.

The most shocking revelation was that the monk proposed they all live together as a polyamorous trio. Her husband told her that if she couldn't accept this, she would have to divorce and leave the house. Jah confirmed she is determined to fight for her dignity and rights.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Fantastic News! Suchart Celebrates Ao Kuak's Recognition as One of the World's Top 10 Beaches in 2026, Vows to Maintain Standards

Ao Kuak beach in Phang Nga's Similan Islands National Park ranked 10th globally in the 2026 World's 50 Best Beaches list, with Thailand's environment minister pledging to maintain strict conservation standards to preserve the site's pristin

5 May Khaosod

Minister Suchart Chomklin expressed delight and pride in the success of Ao Kuak within the Similan Islands National Park being ranked among the world's top 10 beaches for 2026. He thanked park officials for their strong natural resource management and emphasized maintaining strict management standards to preserve this world-class beauty sustainably.

On May 5, 2026, the global rankings of "The World's 50 Best Beaches 2026" were announced by a network of over 1,000 tourism experts worldwide. Ao Kuak (Donald Duck Bay) within the Similan Islands National Park achieved the 10th position globally.

This recognition reflects the bay's outstanding natural beauty, complete ecosystem integrity, and unique characteristics acknowledged on the international stage.

Minister Suchart Chomklin expressed his joy and pride in this success, thanking the Department of National Parks staff and all relevant parties for their strong commitment to natural resource management. He emphasized maintaining strict management standards and using this achievement as a model to elevate national parks throughout the country, promoting Thailand's conservation-based tourism for sustainable growth and international recognition.

Athitpol Charoenchansri, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, noted this success as a point of national pride, reflecting the effectiveness of proactive management measures including visitor capacity limits, seasonal resource rehabilitation closures, and strict waste management, which help maintain high-level marine and coastal ecosystem integrity.

Sirivat Supsai, Director of Similan Islands National Park, explained that Ao Kuak on Eighth Island (Similan Island) features crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and the distinctive "Sailing Stone" rock formation that attracts visitors worldwide. Balancing tourism with conservation and cooperation from operators and visitors have been key factors in gaining international recognition.

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation affirmed its commitment to conserving and protecting invaluable natural resources, ensuring this world-class beauty remains for Thailand and future generations in a sustainable manner.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

First-time cannabis use leaves Chinese man in distress at Pattaya shop

A 35-year-old Chinese tourist suffered a severe medical emergency at a Pattaya cannabis shop after using the substance for the first time, experiencing muscle spasms, breathing difficulties, and persistent vomiting. Emergency responders arrived at the "Bow Thailand" shop and provided initial treatment with ammonia inhalants, though the man refused hospitalization. Health authorities have warned that first-time and inexperienced cannabis users, particularly those trying potent strains, face heightened risks of adverse reactions.

5 May Khaosod

CHONBURI — A Chinese man reportedly suffered severe adverse symptoms after trying cannabis for the first time, prompting an emergency response at a Pattaya shop. The incident was reported at 01:30 to the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Rescue Centre. Responders were dispatched to a cannabis shop identified as "Bow Thailand" in Soi 15, Pattaya Second Road, South Pattaya, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district.

At the scene, a 35-year-old Chinese national was found experiencing muscle spasms, laboured breathing, chest tightness and persistent vomiting. Friends had attempted to assist by applying cold compresses, but his condition did not improve.

Rescue personnel provided initial assistance, including the use of ammonia inhalants in an attempt to revive him. However, the man refused further treatment and declined transport to hospital, leading responders to stand down.

According to Mr. Suriya Chamnan-yom, a volunteer with the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya unit, the call initially reported chest tightness at a cannabis shop on Pattaya Second Road. Upon arrival, responders found the patient in distress with convulsions and continuous vomiting.

Staff at the shop said the group had purchased cannabis and the man began experiencing symptoms shortly after taking a single inhalation. He was reported to have no known underlying medical conditions.

Health authorities note that while cannabis is widely used, first-time and inexperienced users may experience adverse effects, particularly with higher doses or potent strains. Experts generally advise first-time users to start with a very low dose, avoid mixing with alcohol or other substances, and use cannabis in a safe, supervised environment. Individuals with underlying health conditions or sensitivity to psychoactive substances may face higher risks.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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