Police

Tourist Police Arrest Two Foreigners for Illegal Drug Dealing in Phuket; Visa Overstay Also Discovered

Tourist Police arrested a Nigerian and a Belgian national in Phuket's Patong area for cocaine trafficking and visa overstay after receiving intelligence about foreigners illegally selling drugs to tourists.

7 May Khaosod

On May 7, 2026, Lieutenant General Saksira Phuakthum, commander of the Tourist Police, ordered strict enforcement and crackdown on criminal activities by foreigners in their jurisdiction. Officers under the investigation unit arrested two foreign nationals engaged in illegal drug trafficking in the Patong area who were also staying beyond their authorized period.

Investigators had received intelligence that foreigners were illegally selling drugs to tourists in the area, prompting them to plan and execute arrests of two suspects. The first arrest was Samuel, a Nigerian national, who was apprehended with cocaine weighing approximately 10.45 grams on Phra Mettanimit Road in Patong District, Kathu, Phuket. He was transferred to Patong Police Station for processing on charges of drug trafficking and entering and residing in the kingdom without valid authorization.

The second arrest was Brumo, a Belgian national, who was apprehended with 2.90 grams of cocaine near a convenience store on Ratsadornuthit 200 Pi Road in Patong District, Kathu, Phuket. He was also transferred to Patong Police Station for prosecution on charges of drug trafficking and illegal overstay.

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National

Expert Warning: Exhaustion Without Sleep May Signal Chronic Inflammation—Here Are 5 Foods to Avoid

Unexplained fatigue and body pain may signal chronic inflammation caused by stress, poor diet, and inadequate sleep, according to nutritionist Gao Minmin, who recommends avoiding sugary drinks, fried foods, and processed items while eating

7 May Khaosod

Many people today experience unexplained fatigue, body pain, and frequent sleep problems. Renowned nutritionist Gao Minmin points out these symptoms may signal that the body is experiencing chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation stems from stress, insufficient rest, and unbalanced eating habits, causing the immune system to enter a heightened state and continuously release inflammatory substances.

In a Facebook post on May 4th, Gao Minmin explained that chronic inflammation can be rebalanced through proper dietary choices. Key nutrients that reduce inflammation include:

- Omega-3 fatty acids from mackerel, flaxseeds, and walnuts, which strengthen cell membranes and reduce inflammation - Vitamin D from salmon, egg yolks, and dairy products, which helps regulate immune function - Colorful vegetables and fruits like berries and broccoli, rich in phytonutrients that eliminate free radicals - Whole grains and legumes that stabilize blood sugar and energy levels - Healthy fats from olive oil and avocado that fight free radicals and reduce bad cholesterol

Meanwhile, the nutritionist warns against five groups of "inflammatory foods" to avoid: sugary drinks and sweets, alcohol, fried foods, refined carbohydrates like white rice and biscuits, and high-sodium processed foods such as sausages and bacon. These foods can spike blood sugar and insulin levels, burden the liver, and trigger free radical and inflammatory substance production.

Beyond diet, mental stress directly contributes to chronic inflammation. Gao Minmin recommends six daily inflammation-reduction strategies: maintaining consistent sleep schedules, avoiding phones before bed to reduce blue light effects, practicing deep breathing, listening to music, meditation, and spending time in nature to lower stress hormones and restore body balance.

She acknowledges that even she cannot always avoid stress or late nights, but has found that symptoms improve dramatically when she returns to eating well and getting adequate rest. She emphasizes that chronic inflammation doesn't develop overnight but is a warning signal from the body worth heeding. Adjusting lifestyle and eating habits is the key to long-term health recovery.

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National

Tony Rakaen Takes a Break from Entertainment to Garden, Admits Dark Skin Hurt His Career—Jokes About Mom Baan Yen's New Face Surgery Looking Like He Got a New Sister

Thai entertainer Tony Rakaen has stepped back from show business to pursue a simpler life gardening and farming with his wife, though he's now finding ways to balance both. He admitted that neglecting his skin during intensive gardening work darkened his complexion and cost him acting opportunities. During a recent Netflix film premiere appearance, he humorously remarked that his mother Baan Yen's cosmetic surgery made her look so young she seems like a new older sister.

7 May Khaosod

Tony Rakaen has made a comeback to public appearances after stepping away from the entertainment world to pursue a simpler life with his wife Kaew Charinya Sirimongkol. He shifted his focus to gardening and growing vegetables, becoming largely absent from the entertainment scene. Recently, he attended the Netflix action-romance film premiere 'Blood Love Killer' at Siam Paragon's fifth floor, opening up about finding better life balance. He humorously remarked about his mother Baan Yen's recent cosmetic surgery, saying she looks so much younger it's like having a new older sister. At 74, she rarely leaves the house.

When asked about his current lifestyle, Tony explained: "Things are going fine. Nothing major really. We cook and garden. I don't go out much. It's been a long time since an event like this—probably a year. I do talk to people though. There was a period when we were focused on completing the garden project, which didn't align well with entertainment work since the industry demands skin care. I wasn't taking care of myself during that time, and my skin darkened, which meant I wasn't getting work offers. Do I regret the trade-off? I think it's more of an ongoing feeling. We've found more joy in the peace and quiet than in chasing happiness. There are periods where we have to make choices, times when I was filming while also working on the garden, and my skin would change color, making it hard for cinematographers to light scenes properly. But once we understood the system and got everything automated, it required less work from us, allowing us to do more in entertainment."

When asked if economic concerns drove his decision to stay home, Tony responded: "Since COVID, we've been doing this for a while. It does have an effect—we still drive and buy imports; we can't produce 100% of our food at home. I've been affected like everyone else. If anything, it's more of a social issue than economic. We go out less and stay home more, reducing those expenses. Previously, we cleared all our debts—paid off the house, car, and everything. So we don't need to focus on making money the way we used to, though we still do. We've just become more economical. Kaew taught me that living this way is easier—if we want something, we wait until we can afford it, then buy it outright. That's always been her approach, and I've learned from her."

When asked if he's resisting technology and trends like others in the industry, he laughed and said: "I'm not better than anyone. I just go with the flow. My desires have decreased since I don't want to go out much. I don't need to dress up like before. I focus on what we'll cook and eat today and whether it tastes good. I don't see many people or go out often. My consumer spending isn't excessive—it's normal. Most of my spending goes toward the garden: soil, supplies, things like that. As for collectibles I like, I have some Supreme items for decoration, but I'm not buying more. Most of the spending goes to the garden rather than luxury goods."

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National

Flash Express Celebrates 8th Anniversary with 'Happiness in Every Box, Endless' Campaign

Flash Express marks its 8th anniversary with the "Happiness in Every Box, Endless" campaign, offering customers discounts and prizes throughout May while introducing a new duck mascot character to represent the logistics company's brand val

7 May Khaosod

Flash Express, Thailand's leading comprehensive transportation and logistics provider covering the country and Southeast Asia, is celebrating its 8th anniversary with the 'Happiness in Every Box, Endless' campaign. The initiative reflects the company's role not merely as a parcel delivery service, but as a partner delivering opportunities, dreams, and success to customers across all routes through fast, accurate, secure, and continuously improved services.

To mark the milestone, Flash Express is offering special privileges throughout May to thank its customers and partners. These include an 8-baht discount on shipping fees and exclusive benefits for Flash Family members, who can redeem just 1 point for a 10-baht discount at participating restaurants. Customers can also participate in social media activities for a chance to win prizes worth over 100,000 baht.

Additionally, Flash Express is launching 'Nong Songthueng' (Sister Send), a new duck mascot character designed to embody the brand's approachable, vibrant, and friendly image. The mascot reflects the company's commitment to delivering parcels quickly and safely with every shipment. Customers can follow promotional details, eligibility conditions, and activities on Flash Express's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/FlashExpressThailand

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National

FIFA Unveils Prize Money for New ASEAN Cup Tournament; Champions to Earn Triple Previous Editions

FIFA has announced significantly increased prize money for the new 2026 ASEAN Cup tournament, with the Division 1 champion earning 32 million baht—three times more than previous ASEAN Cup winners. The tournament will feature 14 nations across two divisions held in Indonesia and Hong Kong, with teams also invited from India, China, and Hong Kong. Thailand will compete in the separate AFF Hyundai Cup in July-August.

7 May Khaosod

FIFA has announced the prize money structure for the new 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup, scheduled for September-October, with the Division 1 champion receiving over 32 million baht—three times the prize money of previous ASEAN championship winners. The tournament will see 14 nations competing across two divisions, with the top eight teams based on FIFA rankings competing in Division 1 in Indonesia, while the remaining six nations compete in Division 2 in Hong Kong. FIFA has also invited non-ASEAN nations Hong Kong, India, and China to participate. All participating nations receive 125,000 dollars (approximately 4 million baht) in appearance fees, while the Division 1 champion will earn 1 million dollars (approximately 32 million baht)—triple the 300,000 dollars earned by previous ASEAN Cup champions. The Division 2 champion will receive 300,000 dollars (approximately 10 million baht), with additional bonuses for match wins and draws. Meanwhile, during July-August, ASEAN nations will compete in the 2026 ASEAN Football Championship (AFF Hyundai Cup), with Thailand in Group B scheduled to face Laos on July 25, Malaysia on August 1, the Philippines on August 4, and Myanmar on August 8.

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National

Thawee Declares 400 Billion Baht Borrowing: Who Benefits? Private Electricity and Oil Companies Rake in Profits While Citizens Bear the Debt Burden

Thai opposition politician Thawee Sadsong criticizes the government's 400 billion baht borrowing decision, arguing that major corporations in energy and construction sectors benefit while ordinary citizens bear the debt burden. The analysis reveals that investment loans are heavily concentrated in just two sectors and controlled by a handful of large contractors, exacerbating economic inequality and geographical disparities across Thailand.

7 May Khaosod

On May 7, 2025, Police Colonel Thawee Sadsong, leader of the Prachathai Party, posted on Facebook questioning the government's 400 billion baht new borrowing added to existing debt of 860 billion baht, totaling 1.26 trillion baht for the fiscal year. He asked directly: who really benefits, while ordinary citizens pay the price.

Amidst severe financial crisis, the government is pursuing massive borrowing through two main channels: issuing a new royal decree for 400 billion baht, ostensibly to assist people, farmers, and businesses affected by the energy crisis (200 billion baht), and to support renewable energy and skill development (200 billion baht). Combined with budget deficit compensation loans of 860 billion baht under the 2025 budget law, total borrowing for the year reaches 1.26 trillion baht.

Public debt stood at 12.23 trillion baht at the end of fiscal year 2024 (September 30, 2024) and reached 12.68 trillion baht by March 2025. Once the full 400 billion baht is borrowed, public debt by September 30, 2025 is projected to reach approximately 13.49 trillion baht, representing 68.97 percent of GDP (estimated at 19.5 trillion baht). The current debt ceiling is set at no more than 70 percent of GDP.

The decree borrowing is an executive power exercised by the Cabinet, which deemed it an "emergency requiring urgent action to maintain national economic stability." After Cabinet announcement, the decree must be sent to Parliament for consideration.

Public debt remains a nationwide concern as these loans carry average interest rates of approximately 2.95 percent annually. Analysis of 2024 Public Debt Management Act implementation reveals critical issues:

First, borrowed funds are misallocated and concentrated. Most annual borrowing goes to "budget deficit compensation" rather than revenue-generating investments as public debt principles suggest. Instead, funds support long-term state contracts or concessions to just a few private entities, with severe budget concentration observed.

Imbalanced investment from 2024 data shows that over 88 percent of investment loans concentrate in just two sectors: rail/transportation (48.52 percent) and energy/electricity (39.40 percent). Benefits flow to large businesses, with major projects monopolized by a few large contracting companies receiving continuous budget commitments. Top three contractors receive contracts valued at over 337 billion, 315 billion, and 117 billion baht respectively.

Second, there is geographical inequality. Large borrowings are allocated to major urban areas and existing economic zones, while grassroots economic investments such as water systems remain underfunded.

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National

Government Confirms May 25 Registration for Nationwide Subsidy Plus and State Welfare Card Programs, Details Two-Phase Timeline of 2+2 Months

Thailand's government has confirmed May 25 as the registration date for its Nationwide Subsidy Plus and State Welfare Card programs, with benefits starting June 1. The initiative will operate in two phases lasting 2+2 months, providing eligible citizens with 1,000 baht monthly, while welfare cardholders will receive supplemental payments to reach the same amount. The program, covering potentially 43 million people, will be reviewed by the Finance and Interior Ministries to reassess eligibility and transition those no longer in poverty.

7 May Khaosod

The Thai government has confirmed that registration for the Nationwide Subsidy Plus program and a new round of State Welfare Cards will open on May 25 under the "Thailand Helping Thailand Plus" initiative, with benefits beginning June 1. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapassorn announced this on May 7, though the total number of eligible participants—potentially 43 million people—is still under consideration.

The program will be divided into two phases (2+2 months) contingent upon necessity assessment and global conditions. In the first phase, all citizens will receive 1,000 baht per month for two months. Existing welfare cardholders, who currently receive 300 baht monthly, will have an additional 700 baht added to bring their total to 1,000 baht.

The second phase involves reviewing the eligibility of current welfare cardholders based on new registration criteria. Those who no longer meet poverty standards will transition to the Nationwide Subsidy Plus program instead, receiving 1,000 baht for two months like other participants.

The Finance Ministry will collaborate with the Interior Ministry to verify eligibility, aiming to complete the review process within two months of registration opening. This will allow authorities to identify and transition those who have risen above poverty levels into the second phase of the program.

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Police

Custody of Violent Ex-Son-in-Law: Scene Reconstruction Narrowly Avoids Mob Justice as Police Rush Suspect from Chaotic Crime Scene

Police rushed a 47-year-old suspect from a Kanchanaburi crime scene as grieving relatives nearly lynched him during a scene reconstruction, after he fatally shot his father-in-law and sister-in-law.

7 May Khaosod

At 1:00 p.m. on May 7, 2025, Lieutenant Colonel Petsawee Ruangphu, commander of Kanchanaburi Provincial Police, led a team of officers including staff from Ladya Police Station to take custody of 47-year-old Chayant, the former son-in-law who used a firearm to shoot his father-in-law to death, killed his sister-in-law, and seriously wounded his mother-in-law. They arrived at the crime scene to conduct a confessional scene reconstruction. Hundreds of relatives and friends of the deceased had gathered to witness the police investigation.

Police deployed 50 officers to maintain order and prevent chaos during the reconstruction. However, the victims' grieving relatives and friends, overcome with rage, broke through the police cordon and attempted to lynch the suspect, triggering a chaotic disturbance. Police were forced to quickly escort Chayant away from the scene by vehicle.

Somjit, 57, grandfather of deceased Satya, told reporters that before the incident, Chayant had consulted with him multiple times about his problems. Somjit had repeatedly warned him against using violence, and Chayant had promised to resolve matters peacefully through discussion. The family felt assured and unprepared. On the day of the incident, they believed Chayant was coming to discuss a peaceful resolution, but the moment he arrived, he immediately drew his weapon and opened fire—behavior far more brutal than the circumstances warranted.

After police removed Chayant from the scene, officers led him to the mountainous area where he had initially fled and hidden before surrendering to authorities. He left the firearm at that location. Chayant has refused to provide any statements to the media.

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Police

Police Officer Arrested in Drug Trafficking Gang Bust; Methamphetamine Pills Found During Body Search

Police Lieutenant Phakaphum from Phayao Province was arrested during a raid on May 6 after 15 methamphetamine pills were found on him, as part of a nationwide operation targeting state officials involved in drug trafficking.

7 May Khaosod

On May 7, 2569, Police General Suriya Singhakamol, Secretary-General of the Department of Special Investigation, announced the success of "Cutting Out the Rotten Flesh Operation 6," a coordinated effort to address state officials involved in drug trafficking under the government's national-priority drug control policy. The operation began with a complaint filed through the hotline 1386 alleging that a police officer from Dok Kham Tai Police Station in Phayao Province was involved in drug use and distribution. Investigation revealed the officer had been under suspicion since 2567. On May 6, officials from the Department of Special Investigation's Region 5 office, working with investigators from Dok Kham Tai Police Station, conducted a raid on a rural hut in Ban Tham Subdistrict, Dok Kham Tai District. There they found Police Lieutenant Phakaphum with two other men. Urinalysis of all three tested positive for drugs. During a body search of Police Lieutenant Phakaphum, 15 methamphetamine pills were found hidden on his person, while one of his associates had 8 pills. All three were arrested and prosecuted immediately. The Department of Special Investigation's Secretary-General emphasized that this operation sends a clear warning to all state officials that no protection or leniency will be given to wrongdoers. Officials involved in drug trafficking severely undermine public confidence and the justice system. The department will expand the operation to dismantle all related networks and enforce maximum disciplinary and legal measures to maintain transparency standards and create a sustainable drug-free Thai society in accordance with the Ministry of Justice's objectives.

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National

Stop the Empty Talk! Pheu Thai MP Challenges Dr. Vorasakdi to Publicly Declare Rejection of Parliamentary Pension

A Pheu Thai MP challenged Dr. Vorasakdi to publicly reject his parliamentary pension instead of merely proposing benefit cuts during a House session appointing fund committee members for former legislators' pensions.

7 May Khaosod

Parliament appoints 8 fund committee members for former legislators' pensions. Dr. Vorasakdi proposes cutting pensions and education allowances for children studying abroad. Sanoeng challenges him to lead by example and become the first to publicly refuse a parliamentary pension.

On May 7, 2025, the House of Representatives held a session chaired by Deputy House Speaker Mallika Jirapanwanitch to consider appointing 8 committee members to the Former Parliamentary Members' Fund according to Section 8 of the Former Parliamentary Members' Fund Act, B.E. 2556.

The appointees include Sanoeng Thaepaksornarong (Buriram MP, Pheu Thai Party), Chuti Krairik (Phichit MP, Pheu Thai Party), Pakornwut Udomphipatsakul (Party-List MP, Pheu Thai Party), Prayuth Siripanichaya (Party-List MP, For Thailand Party), Bunyying Nitikaanchanaa (Ratchaburi MP, Kla Tham Party), Prasert Boonreung (former Kalasin MP, For Thailand Party), Suddawan Subunna Na Ayuthaya (former Nakhon Pathom MP, Move Forward Party), and Dr. Cherdchai Tantisirinthon (former Party-List MP, For Thailand Party).

During the appointment discussion, Dr. Vorasakdi Detkitvirogm, a party-list MP and Thai Loyalty Party leader, raised concerns about the appropriateness of the fund's generous benefits. He noted that 19 of the 21 fund committee members are current or former legislators, which creates potential conflicts of interest.

Dr. Vorasakdi highlighted that while MPs contribute only 3,500 baht monthly to the fund, they receive five significant benefits: monthly lifetime pensions, annual medical coverage up to 130,000 baht, education support for children including international schools, disability assistance of 15,000 baht, and death benefits of 200,000 baht for families.

He expressed particular concern about international school education benefits and lifetime pensions, arguing these are excessive. He noted that some former legislators become government ministers or Bangkok governor while continuing to receive parliamentary pensions—a situation he views as exploitative to taxpayers.

Dr. Vorasakdi called for committee members to eliminate unnecessary benefits, particularly international school allowances and parliamentary pensions, and urged current legislators to publicly demonstrate their commitment by refusing pensions as a starting point for parliamentary system reform.

Sanoeng Thaepaksornarong responded that as a fund committee member, he would consider Dr. Vorasakdi's proposals for future regulations.

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National

'Big Joke' Denies Knowing Thon Bangkae and Amulet Collector Group, Claims He Didn't Use Anyone as a Tool to Attack 'Big Turtle'

Former Thai Deputy Police Commissioner General Surachet Hakphaul, known as 'Big Joke,' appeared for questioning at the Central Investigation Police Office on charges of assault filed by two former aides. He denied knowing Thon Bangkae and an amulet collector group, claiming he did not use anyone as a tool to attack anyone and requested media not to connect the issues. His lawyer stated he provided supplementary testimony with medical witnesses while maintaining his innocence and indicating he plans to file a counter-complaint.

7 May Khaosod

'Big Joke' Denies Knowing Thon Bangkae and Amulet Collector Group, Claims He Didn't Use Anyone as a Tool to Attack 'Big Turtle' and Asks the Media Not to Connect the Dots

At 2:00 PM on May 7, 2026, at the Central Investigation Police Office, General Surachet Hakphaul, also known as 'Big Joke' and former Deputy Police Commissioner, gave an additional statement to suppression division investigators. This came after his former close aides Pol. Col. Aris Kurasertrat and Pol. Lt. Col. Krisada Periyakaetu filed a complaint accusing him of assault causing bodily or mental harm.

General Surachet revealed that he came today to provide supplementary testimony regarding the complaint filed by his former subordinates, though he asked that details be directed to his lawyer. He confirmed that all actions are being conducted within the framework of the law. Regarding his relationship with 'Thon Bangkae' and the amulet collector group in question, he stated he does not know either Thon or the collector group, and he did not coordinate with them to come to the suppression division.

When asked about reports suggesting that General Surachet may have used Thon Bangkae as a tool to file a complaint, General Surachet requested that the media not connect these issues. He emphasized that he does not know anything about Thon, does not know him personally, and did not use anyone as a tool.

According to Sanyaphach Samart, General Surachet's lawyer, today's supplementary testimony addressed allegations of assault and mental harm. The general brought outside witnesses, including 3-4 medical witnesses whose names he preferred not to disclose, as he came seeking justice and wanted investigators to examine the evidence and consider it in building the case. Initially, General Surachet has provided complete testimony to the investigators, though the investigator's decision on whether to file charges remains at their discretion.

The lawyer clarified that regarding previous reports suggesting General Surachet's testimony contradicted his lawyer's account, the investigators actually summoned General Surachet to provide supplementary information to police. General Surachet's intention that day was to also file a counter-complaint against his former subordinates, but due to other commitments and time constraints, he only acknowledged the facts and did not file the counter-complaint that day. However, he will proceed with filing the counter-complaint afterward.

'General Surachet has not yet discussed the case with the opposing party. He continues to deny assaulting his former subordinate. Whether today's testimony will be favorable to General Surachet remains unclear, but he has provided all facts and information, particularly the medical evidence that cannot be altered.'

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