Police

Victim Files Complaint Against Prominent Company Executive for Hit-and-Run While Drunk, Then Assaults Victim in Bangkok

A prominent company executive hit a Bangkok merchant's car while drunk, fled the scene, then assaulted him when confronted—later claiming he simply went to the wrong hotel and filing a counter-complaint against the victim.

12 May Khaosod

At 10:00 AM on May 12, 2569, Ekalak, a renowned online merchant, submitted CCTV footage to the "Sai Maai Tong Raad" page after being hit from behind by a prominent company executive's car who fled the scene. The victim also claims to have been challenged to fight and pressured through police officers. The incident occurred on the night of January 7, 2569, at the Prasert Manukij intersection. Ekalak stated that while stopped at a red light, he was suddenly hit hard from behind by a Toyota. When he got out to negotiate, he found the driver—wearing a black shirt—was heavily intoxicated. Instead of apologizing, the driver became aggressive, grabbed him, and hurled insults. When the victim tried to record video evidence, the driver challenged him: "Do you want to fight me?" and threatened: "I have connections." This led to a confrontation on the street. When rescue volunteers asked the driver to move his car aside to wait for police, the driver instead took advantage of the chaos, sped away, and fled without leaving insurance information or waiting for police. The victim submitted medical examination documents and filed a police report at Lad Phrao Police Station. After the incident, the suspect disappeared for three days before appearing at the police station, oddly claiming he hadn't fled but had simply gone to the wrong hotel. This raised suspicion that he was buying time for his blood alcohol content to decrease. Ekalak further stated that he not only failed to receive justice initially but was also approached by a police officer at a hotel who attempted to mediate and persuade him not to pursue the case. He later discovered this officer had a close relationship with the suspect. Additionally, when threatened with reporting to the company, the suspect's lawyer confidently responded: "Go ahead, they'll drop the case themselves anyway." The suspect even filed a counter-complaint alleging assault against the victim, despite being the aggressor. Nirun Kaaengew from the "Sai Maai Tong Raad" team stated the case has clear evidence including drunk driving, hit-and-run, and assault, and they are coordinating with Lad Phrao Police Station's superintendent to push the case to resolution and investigate the officer's interference to restore justice for the victim.

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Breaking

MV Hondius evacuation ends as hantavirus monitoring continues

The evacuation of the cruise ship MV Hondius is complete, with all passengers and crew safely removed following a deadly hantavirus outbreak that claimed three lives and infected several others. Multiple countries coordinated repatriation efforts, with passengers now undergoing 42-day quarantine protocols as health authorities monitor those showing symptoms. The WHO has confirmed seven cases of Andes hantavirus among those who were aboard the vessel during its 41-day voyage from Argentina.

12 May Khaosod

TENERIFE — 12 May 2026, All passengers and crew aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius have now been evacuated following an outbreak of hantavirus that left three people dead and several others infected, while health authorities continue monitoring passengers who have begun showing symptoms after returning home.

The final group of six passengers, along with some crew members, disembarked off the coast of Tenerife, Spain, on 11 May, marking the end of a complex international evacuation operation. The group included four Australians, one British resident of Australia and one New Zealander, who were later transferred to the Netherlands for quarantine.

Governments including Spain, France, Canada, Britain and the United States arranged charter flights to repatriate citizens after the outbreak aboard the vessel. In total, 94 passengers and crew members were returned to their home countries following the ship's 41-day voyage from southern Argentina. The final evacuation flight departed Tenerife around midday on 11 May local time.

The Dutch Foreign Ministry said 19 crew members and three doctors who remained on board to care for passengers had already arrived in the Netherlands. The MV Hondius, carrying the remaining 26 crew members, is now heading to the Netherlands for disinfection.

The first positive hantavirus test aboard the vessel was reported nine days ago. The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised all passengers to quarantine for 42 days from 10 May because the virus can incubate for up to six weeks. However, quarantine measures vary between countries.

Spanish passengers are required to remain in hospital quarantine for 42 days. French passengers must stay under hospital observation for 72 hours before continuing isolation at home for a further 45 days. American passengers may choose between home quarantine or isolation at a facility in Nebraska.

Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO director for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, said passengers should undergo daily health monitoring either at home or in designated quarantine facilities, depending on national guidelines.

WHO said seven confirmed cases of Andes hantavirus have been identified, along with two additional suspected cases. One suspected patient died before testing could be carried out, while the other is on Tristan da Cunha, a remote island in the South Atlantic without local testing facilities.

The death toll remains at three, including two Dutch passengers and one German passenger.

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National

Thailand Reviews Visa-Free Stay, May Cut Limit to 30 Days

Thailand's government is reviewing its visa-free entry policy and proposes reducing the current 60-day tourist visa exemption to a maximum of 30 days. Deputy Prime Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasized the measure aims to prevent misuse of the system and address security concerns, following recent incidents involving foreign nationals. The government plans to streamline all visa categories while insisting the changes are not targeting any specific country.

12 May Khaosod

BANGKOK — 12 May 2026, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, confirmed the government is reviewing its visa-free entry scheme for tourists by reducing permitted stays to no more than 30 days to prevent foreigners from misusing the system or engaging in activities affecting national security.

Speaking before a Cabinet meeting regarding the review of visa-free measures at Government House on 12 May, Sihasak said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out the existence of multiple visa types, believing the current 60-day visa-free period for tourists may be excessive. He noted that some visitors might not be genuine tourists and could exploit these measures, necessitating stricter regulations.

The proposal had originally been prepared since the first term of the Anutin-led administration, but was postponed because of the election period, Sihasak said. He added that the government now intends to move forward with the review urgently.

Under the process, the Secretariat of the Cabinet will consult relevant agencies, although Sihasak said he believed there will be no issues as the Foreign Ministry-led visa committee already closely monitoring the situation from related agencies.

Sihasak said he discussed the issue with Prime Minister on 11 May. He said Thailand currently has a large number of visa categories being pushed by various agencies, and while these initiatives are introduced with good intentions, including for foreign experts and soft-power support, but added that some measures may exceed actual necessity and should be reassessed.

Asked when the conclusion on streamlining visa criteria would be reached, Sihasak said the first priority was reviewing visa-free tourist entry following recent incidents involving Chinese citizens in Thailand. He clarified that his comments on the visa policy were not merely a reaction to these events, as the review had been initiated long before. Furthermore, the government plans to conduct a comprehensive review of all visa categories to determine if they are truly necessary or can be consolidated.

Asked whether the visa-free status for Chinese nationals would be shortened or revoked entirely, Mr. Sihasak emphasized that the government is not targeting any specific country. Instead, the focus is on activities that may pose risks to Thailand. Tourist visas should be granted for a duration appropriate for tourism, likely not exceeding 30 days, with criteria strictly aligned with their intended purpose.

He added that the focus is on if visitors are following their visa conditions. The government is not targeting any specific group, but it must tighten enforcement against those involved in illicit activities or security threats, as seen in the recent case of the Chinese suspect who was taken into custody.

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National

Anutin Takes Motorcycle Grocery Cart for Spin Around Thai Khu Fah Building to Promote Thai Help Thai Campaign

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun rode a traditional motorcycle grocery sidecar around Government House to promote the "Thai Help Thai" campaign, an initiative designed to lower living costs through discounted food and household goods. The program operates through mobile vendors, community distribution points, and special promotions to help lower-income households access affordable essentials. The colorful stunt was meant to highlight the government's grassroots approach to economic relief.

12 May Khaosod

BANGKOK — On May 12, 2026, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun rode a motorcycle-mounted grocery sidecar around Government House to promote the government's "Thai Help Thai" campaign, which aims to reduce living costs by offering discounted food and household goods.

The two officials toured the grounds near the Thai Khu Fah Building on a "rot phum phuang" motorcycle sidecar—the traditional vendor cart seen throughout Thai neighborhoods—before opening an event showcasing discounted food, consumer goods, and household necessities from government agencies and private-sector partners.

Launched earlier this year, the "Thai Help Thai" campaign is part of the government's broader effort to ease living costs and support household budgets during economic weakness and high consumer expenses.

According to officials, the program operates through mobile sales trucks, community distribution points, and special discount promotions designed to help lower-income households afford essential goods at reduced prices.

Photos from Government House captured Anutin operating the motorcycle sidecar—a common sight in Thai communities where roaming vendors sell fresh vegetables, dry goods, and daily necessities directly to residents.

The staged appearance was intended to emphasize the campaign's grassroots character and link the government initiative to the everyday commerce that thrives in local communities.

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Regional

Kanchanaburi FC Chairman: Announcement on Former Vietnamese National Team Coach Phan Hang Sao Within 2-3 Days

Kanchanaburi FC's chairman confirmed the club has negotiated with Phan Hang Sao, the former Vietnamese national team coach, to lead the recently relegated Thai League 2 side. The club plans to announce the coaching decision within 2-3 days, keeping negotiations confidential to avoid previous experience of premature disclosures.

12 May Khaosod

Dr. Prawat Kitthammakoolnij, chairman of Kanchanaburi FC, confirmed that the club has concluded negotiations with Phan Hang Sao, former head coach of Vietnam's national football team. After the "Iron Horse" club was relegated from Thailand's top division and returns to Thai League 2 next season, they have reportedly finalized talks with the Vietnamese coach who previously led the Vietnamese national team. Regarding this matter, Dr. Kitthammakoolnij stated that he currently cannot disclose any details about negotiations or progress, though he did not deny the reports. The Kanchanaburi governor briefly remarked: "I want to keep everything as confidential as possible because we learned from last year's experience when we revealed everything about the team. This time we will wait until everything is 100 percent clear first, but we expect to have answers for the media within 2-3 days."

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National

Ekniti Reaffirms 400 Billion Baht Loan to Address Cost of Living Crisis and Energy Security, Declines to Comment on Shin Corp Tax Collection Progress

Finance Minister Ekniti reaffirmed a 400 billion baht emergency loan decree to combat Thailand's cost-of-living crisis and energy security threats, describing it as essential to prevent business collapse and unemployment. The measure took e

12 May Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprasert emphasized the necessity of issuing a 400 billion baht loan decree to address the cost of living crisis, comparing the measure to killing two birds with one stone by both providing relief and restoring economic strength. Speaking at Government House on May 12, 2025, he reaffirmed that the government regards this as an economic security matter following the opposition's petition to the Constitutional Court.

Distinguishing the current situation from past crises like the 1997 financial crisis and banking collapse, Ekniti stressed that today's challenge is a global cost-of-living crisis constituting an economic security threat. He warned that failure to act immediately would trigger cascading crises: rising inflation leading to increased living costs, shrinking incomes, small business collapse, and ultimately unemployment. "If we don't stop this crisis now and wait for problems to worsen, when living costs rise and income falls, small businesses cannot survive independently and will suffer severe impacts, eventually creating an unemployment crisis," he stated.

Ekniti confirmed that the loan decree has been published in the Royal Gazette and is now in effect, with the government ready to proceed. Regarding the remaining 200 billion baht tranche, he clarified that both portions must be treated separately as crisis relief measures, aiming both to mitigate immediate impacts and strengthen the economy's resilience. He further noted that Thailand faces greater energy security risks than many nations due to high energy imports, making an energy transition necessary to reduce dependence on oil amid ongoing global conflicts.

When asked about the Revenue Department's progress in collecting taxes from Shin Corp stock purchases, Ekniti declined to answer before departing Government House.

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Community

Alex Rendell Feels Truly Grown Up Now That He's a Father, Worries About AI Era Stealing Childhood

First-time father Alex Rendell reflects on how parenthood has transformed his life priorities, expressing deep concerns about AI and screens stealing childhood from modern children. In an interview on My Daddy James, the conservation-minded actor shares candid stories about his new parenting journey while emphasizing his desire to raise his son surrounded by nature rather than digital devices. Rendell also discusses how he's restructuring his career and life at age 35-36 to be fully present for his growing family.

12 May Khaosod

Alex Rendell, a conservationist and actor, has opened up about feeling truly adult since becoming a father for the first time. In an interview on the show My Daddy James, he shares candid moments about fatherhood while expressing concern about how screens, AI, pollution, and environmental problems are stealing childhood from the next generation. He emphasizes his desire to raise his child in nature and to become a good member of society.

When asked about his proudest or most embarrassing parenting moments, Rendell recalls learning proper holding techniques through trial and error, decoding different types of baby cries, and discovering that bath time is his favorite bonding opportunity. He shares an anecdote about his son happily sitting in a small tub while he poured water over his chest.

Regarding his readiness for fatherhood at 35-36 years old, Rendell explains that the timing felt right. He wasn't in the middle of building his career when his child arrived, allowing him to be more present. He calculates that when his son graduates from university, he'll be around 55-60 years old—young enough to still be active together. He also notes that parenting requires constant adaptation as children's energy levels change with age.

Since his wife became pregnant, Rendell has been preparing by arranging insurance, vaccinations, and medical care. He's also restructuring his organization and work commitments to ensure growth and stability for his growing family, having worked in advertising and acting for years while maintaining the opportunity to travel with his child.

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Tourism

Thai Tourism Authority Jakarta Partners with Airlines and OTAs to Boost Indonesian Visitor Numbers in 2026 with Three-Pronged Thai Appeal Strategy

Thailand's Tourism Authority is launching a comprehensive three-part marketing campaign targeting high-spending Indonesian tourists from May to September 2026, coordinating with airlines, online travel agencies, and influencers to drive visitor numbers. The initiative emphasizes newer attractions like Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima—positioned as an affordable European alternative—alongside Bangkok, Pattaya, and Instagram-popular locations to appeal to families and Gen Y/Z travelers. The campaign also targets specialty segments including golf tourism and medical wellness tourism to maximize revenue from the quality Indonesian market.

12 May Khaosod

The Thai Tourism Authority's Jakarta office is mobilizing a three-pronged marketing strategy to drive Indonesian visitor numbers in 2026, targeting family groups and independent travelers with an average spending capacity of 30,000 baht per person per trip. According to Niti Wongwicha, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand's Jakarta office, the campaign will run from May to September 2026 and leverage social media to showcase Thailand's attractions to Indonesian tourists who enjoy visiting Talad Noi, Yaowarat, and other Instagram-worthy locations.

The three main activities include: First, partnering with airlines offering direct and connecting flights from Indonesia to create packaged tour products and boost flight bookings through social media. The initiative also extends to cruise ship tourism targeting Samui and Phuket. Second, collaborating with online travel agencies (OTAs) to stimulate tourism bookings within Thailand. Third, working with leading Indonesian bloggers and influencers to create awareness and promote Thai tourism.

The Tourism Authority is expanding promotional activities to secondary Indonesian cities such as Bandung, Balikpapan, and Semarang, with special focus on Muslim family groups, a significant market segment. The strategy includes short, medium, and long-term promotions designed to maintain airline frequency and encourage direct flight selections. Primary destinations include Bangkok, Pattaya (Chonburi), and secondary destinations, with Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima emerging as a new highlight.

Khao Yai is being positioned as an Asia-Europe equivalent destination offering multiple appeals: European-style atmosphere at budget-friendly prices, services tailored to Indonesian family travelers, and abundant natural beauty with numerous photo opportunities for social media. Popular attractions include Tuscany-inspired landscapes and vineyard-like settings reminiscent of French and Hokkaido experiences. The new M6 motorway from Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports to Nakhon Ratchasima significantly reduces travel time, supporting tourism business development.

For 2026, the Jakarta office is also targeting two additional high-value market segments. The first focuses on golf tourism in Bangkok and surrounding areas, with partnerships bringing in over 100 additional golfers in the coming months. The second targets wellness tourism, having recently brought Indonesian operators to participate in the Amazing Thailand Health and Wellness Trade Meet 2026 in Bangkok, and establishing cooperation with Samitivej Hospital and premium health clubs in Indonesia to promote Thailand's health services.

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National

Anuthon Insists Emergency Loan Decree is Urgent, Says He Wouldn't Have Issued It Without Confidence

Prime Minister Anuthon Chauyvarakul defended the government's 400 billion baht emergency loan decree as necessary and urgent, dismissing an opposition petition to the Constitutional Court challenging its validity. He asserted the decree will not disrupt citizen assistance programs and claimed he wouldn't have issued it without full confidence in its legality. The Prime Minister indicated the government has only one plan—to help the Thai people—and declined to discuss contingency measures if the court rules against the decree.

12 May Khaosod

Prime Minister Anuthon Chauyvarakul reaffirmed that the 400 billion baht emergency loan decree is necessary and urgent, dismissing the opposition's petition to the Constitutional Court. He insisted the decree won't disrupt relief programs for citizens, stating he wouldn't have issued it without confidence.

Speaking at Government House at 12:30 p.m. on May 12, 2025, Anuthon addressed the opposition's move to have the Constitutional Court review the decree. He stated that the government, in its administrative capacity, determined that the measure was urgent and beneficial. He expressed confidence that planned projects would not stall because the decree has already been published in the Royal Gazette and is in effect, though there may be some minor delays while one-fifth of parliament members' petition is being considered by the parliamentary speaker as an agenda item. Anuthon noted that government work supporting citizens continues alongside efforts to deliver relief funds.

When asked if the government had a backup plan in case the Constitutional Court ruled the decree unconstitutional, Anuthon responded that the government is performing its duty to alleviate people's hardship, emphasizing this is an executive matter. When pressed again on whether a contingency plan exists, the Prime Minister said there is only one plan: to help the people. When further questioned whether the Cabinet's position would guarantee the decree, prompting concerns about backup plans if the court rules otherwise, Anuthon stated he had reached his limit on the matter, saying simply: if you're not confident, you shouldn't issue a decree in the first place.

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National

Supra Thailand Announces Jack Titus to Compete at Mister Supranational 2026

Thailand has announced that Jack Titus, the current Mister Model International 2025 titleholder and founder of Titus Modeling Agency, will represent the country at the Mister Supranational 2026 competition in Poland on August 1, 2026. The accomplished Thai model, who is based in the United States and has worked with major international fashion brands and been featured in leading magazines, is expected to elevate Thailand's standing in the global pageant. His selection reflects Thailand's commitment to sending contestants with proven international experience and achievements.

12 May Khaosod

Thailand is making waves in the international pageantry and fashion world once again with the announcement that Jack Titus, an accomplished Thai model with a global reputation, will represent Thailand at the Mister Supranational 2026 competition.

Jack Titus is no ordinary model—he is the current holder of the Mister Model International 2025 title, one of the world's most prestigious male modeling competitions recognized across the fashion and international entertainment industries. He is currently based in the United States working in fashion and is the founder of Titus Modeling Agency, with extensive experience collaborating with global brands and projects across the United States, Europe, and Asia.

His work has been published and featured on the covers of leading international fashion magazines including Harper's BAZAAR, VOGUE, L'OFFICIEL, ELLE, GRAZIA, GLAMOUR, and Esquire. He has also participated in New York Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week, Paris Fashion Week, and numerous international fashion events around the world.

The decision by the Supra Thailand 2026 team to send Jack Titus as Thailand's representative this year clearly elevates the country's standards, bringing a contestant with genuine experience in the global fashion industry, proven success, and a vision to inspire the younger generation.

The Mister Supranational 2026 competition will take place on August 1, 2026, in Poland. This represents another important stage for Jack Titus to showcase Thailand's experience, reputation, and potential to the world. The Thai team is ready to show their support.

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National

International Entertainment – HBO Max Announces Season 2 of Harry Potter Series

HBO Max greenlights season two of its Harry Potter series adaptation, with production beginning this fall after the first season's Christmas premiere and Jon Brown promoted to co-showrunner.

12 May Khaosod

HBO Max has announced the production of season 2 of the original Harry Potter series. In this new adventure, Harry is forced to confront a dangerous enemy from his past.

The original series "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" will premiere during the Christmas season, and HBO Max has green-lit season two with production scheduled to begin this fall. Jon Brown, the writer of the first season, has been promoted to Co-Showrunner for season two. Francesca Gardiner, the writer and executive producer, explained: "We've planned overlapping production schedules so that season one finishes in time for Christmas and we can start shooting season two again this fall. Bringing in a Co-Showrunner to support us is the key to keeping the work running smoothly. I'm very happy to be working with Jon. He's an outstanding colleague and a truly delightful person. We're very lucky to have him on the team."

Jon Brown stated: "I'm very excited to work with Francesca as Co-Showrunner. Writing for Philosopher's Stone has been a joy. Thank you to Francesca and HBO for trusting me to continue on this remarkable journey. It seems we're never too old to receive an invitation to Hogwarts."

In season one, Harry Potter doesn't seem special at all—at least that's what his aunt Petunia always told him. But on his 11th birthday, an acceptance letter to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry changes everything, drawing Harry into a hidden magical world of wonder, friendship, and magic. In this new adventure, Harry must confront a dangerous enemy from his past.

Harry Potter will stream on HBO Max.

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