Chalermchai not running in May 14 general election
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Opting out of the May 14 general election is Democrat Secretary-General and Agricultural & Cooperatives Minister Chalermchai Sri-on for personal reasons.
24,000 Thai expats have so far registered to vote
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
So far around 24,000 Thai expats across the world have registered to vote in the upcoming election with the deadline to do so being April 9.
Ultra-royalists urged to rally after message sprayed at temple
Ultra-royalists were urged to rally at various Metropolitan police stations today (Mar. 29) after an artist was arrested for spraying 112 on the wall of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Amnesty slams global double standards while urging Thai govt to uphold rights
In its annual report Amnesty International criticised global double standards while slamming the Thai government’s human rights record.
Prayut, Paetongtarn, Settha skipping party-listed mode
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, running for premiership under Ruam Thai Sang Chart’s tickets, and similarly Pheu Thai’s Paetongta Shinawatra and Settha Taweesin are opting out of the party-listed mode in upcoming election.
Suchart has now jumped onto Pheu Thai bandwagon
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Another prominent politician has hopped over to Pheu Thai Party with this being former first deputy House speaker Suchart Tancharoen whose support base is Chachoengsao province.
Thaksin might be detained in hospital or nursing home instead of prison: Academic
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A respected academic said former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra could possibly be detained in a hospital or nursing home instead of prison should he return from self-exile overseas.
Iraqi man faints upon being caught overstaying more than 8 years
An Iraqi man who overstayed in Thailand for more than eight years fainted when police came to his house in Pattaya to arrest him today (Mar. 28) amid a crackdown on overstaying.
Karen fighters seize Myanmar military’s base opposite Mae Hong Son
A Myanmar military base opposite Thailand’s Mae Hong Son province was captured by Karen fighters after a fierce clash with Myanmar soldiers stationed here having frequently fired at Thai boats.
Scientists find water inside glass beads on the moon
By AFP and published by CNA
Scientists have found water inside tiny glass beads strewn across the moon’s surface which could be extracted and used by “explorers of tomorrow”.
Chadchart imposes quadruple ban this Songkarn
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said the capital is gearing up to celebrate Songkran next month but sale and consumption of alcohol, using high-pressure water guns, smearing powder and wearing revealing clothes are banned.
Thaksin snubs possibility of Pheu Thai-Palang Pracharath alliance
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra ruled out the option of setting up a coalition government with Palang Pracharath Party headed by Prawit Wongsuwan after the election.
#Savemaesai – PM2.5 soars over 700, Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son also affected
Air quality deteriorated in Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district with PM2.5 jumping over 700 µg/m³ this morning (Mar. 27) as the whole of the northern region is covered with smog.
Foreign restaurant employees bash up tourists at Patong
Three foreign restaurant workers thrashed five tourists at Patong last night (Mar. 27) after the latter ordered quick service.
Pita, Paetongtarn running neck and neck for PM by Bangkokians’ choice: NIDA Poll
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A NIDA Poll shows Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat and Pheu Thai candidate Paetongtarn Shinawatra are running neck and neck as Bangkokians’ top choice for prime minister.
Big grass fire scares people in Uthai Thani
A grass fire at a cemetery in Uthai Thani started by three men hired to mow it spread rapidly and razed a hundred rai of grassland before being put out with frightened residents looking on.
Chiang Rai residents tweeting for help as PM2.5 skyrockets
Chiang Rai residents are desperately tweeting for help under the hashtag #savemaesai after PM2.5 climbed to 480 micrograms per cubic metre today (Mar. 26).
Thaksin offers to put self behind bars upon planned homecoming
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra offered to put himself behind bars upon planned homecoming sometime this year regardless of the results of the upcoming election.
Lone activist gives three-finger salute at Prayut event
A young man gave the three-finger salute at a Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party event where caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha declared his candidacy for premiership.
3 Kalasin policemen arrested for taking bribe to free drug suspect
Three policemen have been arrested in Kalasin after being caught red-handed taking a large bribe from the sister of a drug suspect to set him free.
Foreigner filmed stealing money from exchange booth
A foreign man was filmed by surveillance cameras at a money exchange booth in Pattaya stealing a coin box early yesterday morning (Mar. 24) with police urged to track him down.
Prayut warns Pheu Thai might ‘slide off course’
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha hit out at Pheu Thai Party saying this camp could “slide off course” instead of scoring a landslide win.
Naruemon declines to run as Palang Pracharath party-listed candidate
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A quiet protest rocked Palang Pracharath after its treasurer Naruemon Pinyosinwat refused to contest the upcoming election in the party-listed mode.
Amnesty urges Thai Govt to not deport Myanmar people after many quizzed
Amnesty International urged the Thai government not to deport Myanmar people after around a hundred were rounded up and interrogated in a raid of a commercial complex in Mae Sot.
Third drug suspect in city centre shootout nabbed
The third drug suspect on the run after a shootout with police in Sukhumvit Soi 50 was finally caught in Nakhon Pathom while his two accomplices were nabbed in the Sathorn area.
Pheu Thai could probably become one-party government: Somsak
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
After hopping over to Pheu Thai Party, Sam Mit group leader Somsak Theputhin predicted that his new camp would likely become a one-party government after the May 14 election.
No more coup after May 14 election: Prawit
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan said there will be no more coup after the May 14 election with his camp busy pushing its “step beyond conflict” campaign”.
Really Cool Airlines to begin operations in December
Thailand’s brand-new Really Cool Airlines will take to the sky in December but will only be flying international, not domestic routes.
Hunger strike duo leaving hospital, reveal new strategy
Two hunger strike activists are leaving the hospital today (Mar. 23) but now plan to ask all political parties for their viewpoint on their demands.
Gunman found dead after 15-hour siege
A gunman who killed three people and injured four others by randomly shooting from his house was found dead there after two police raids overnight.
Ex-ranger kills three in indiscriminate shooting from house
A former ranger stressed out at having to go to court on drug charges started firing indiscriminately from his house in Phetchaburi province with three dead and two injured so far.
Ratsadon Group launches ‘Vote for Change’ campaign
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Ratsadon Group kicked off their “Vote for Change” campaign today (Mar. 22) to ensure the upcoming election is free, fair and transparent with their goals being met.
Thammarak helps Prawit in Isaan to deny Pheu Thai landslide win
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former defence minister Thammarak Isarangkun na Ayutthaya is helping Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan’s campaign in Isaan to halt a Pheu Thai landslide win.
Update: 2 Chinese kidnap victims safe, walked back home
The Chinese woman and her brother who were kidnapped by their compatriots in Chonburi on Monday (Mar. 20) are safe and walked back home upon being released.
Chinese kidnap suspect held at airport as hunt for victims continues
A suspect in the kidnapping of a Chinese woman and her brother was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport just as he was about to fly back to China with police searching a hill in Rayong for the two hostages.
General election scheduled for May 14
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Election fever is rising in Thailand after the polling agency scheduled a general election for May 14 with contestants to apply to join the race early next month.
Abhisit not joining Democrats in contesting general election
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said he will not be running for MP under the Democrat Party’s tickets but is staying in its fold while keeping a low profile.
Thai police, FBI swoop on call centre gang targeting Americans
A joint operation by Thai police and a US FBI and Secret Service team busted a call centre gang that scammed Americans out of over US$3 billion with four key suspects arrested.
Chinese kidnappers have still not released hostages
A Chinese woman and her brother who were kidnapped by their compatriots in Chonburi yesterday (Mar. 20) have still not been released but police are chasing the criminals.
House dissolved, general election tipped for May 14
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha dissolved the House of Representatives today (Mar. 20) with a general election likely to take place on May 14.
Missing radioactive cylinder likely sold as scrap to a smelter
A cylinder holding dangerous radioactive material caesium-137 missing in Prachinburi since March 10 seems to have been sold as scrap to a smelter.
Another Chinese ransom kidnapping in Chonburi
Soon after the arrest of three Chinese suspects on kidnapping charges another Chinese woman and her friend were kidnapped in Chonburi this morning (Mar. 20).
Chinese kidnap suspects not cooperating, deny charges
Three Chinese suspects accused of kidnapping a Chinese woman in the Ekamai area and getting a 3.3 million baht ransom are not cooperating with the police and deny the charges.
Most people still prefer Pheu Thai for government: NIDA poll
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Pheu Thai did best in the latest NIDA poll as it is the top choice for government after the upcoming election with Move Forward being the next favourite.
Warning issued after tourist drowns off Pattaya beach
An unidentified foreign man drowned off Pattaya beach today (Mar. 19) with tourists urged to beware of strong wind and rough waves.
Two fake doctors nabbed in raid of bogus clinics
Two fake doctors were caught red-handed treating patients at their bogus clinics with one being in Bangkok and the other Pathum Thani.
Hailing again in Chiang Mai with Chiang Rai too lashed
Chiang Mai was battered by hail and rainstorm for the second day in a row this afternoon (Mar. 19) with the bad storm also lashing Chiang Rai.
FEATURE: Trees literally turned into structures for roadside campaign signs
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
With elections just weeks away farmers in Sisaket are earning extra income by cutting down indigenous hardwood trees and processing them into slats of wood for roadside campaign signs.
Chinese grey capitalist gangs ransom kidnapping wealthy people in Tachileik
Chinese grey capitalist gangs have been ransom kidnapping well-off people in Myanmar’s border town Tachileik but this criminal activity has not crossed over to Mae Sai in Thailand.
Hailstorm hits Chiang Mai knocking down power poles, billboards
Chiang Mai was pummelled by a fierce storm that brought hail and heavy rain with strong winds toppling power poles and billboards as well as ripping off some roofs.
Trump says he expects to be arrested on Tuesday, calls for protests
By Reuters and published by CNA
Former US President Donald Trump said he may be arrested on Tuesday (Mar. 21) in a case about alleged hush money paid to a porn star and called for protests.
Petition to probe Prayut’s ‘use of govt property to gain popularity’
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The polling agency was asked to investigate Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha allegedly using government property and personnel in a popularity-wooing drive.
Bhumjaithai dissolution sought for allegedly accepting tainted donations
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Whistleblower Chuwit Kamolvisit asked the polling agency to take action on dissolving Bhumjaithai Party for allegedly accepting laundered money donations.
New data links Covid-19’s origins to raccoon dogs at Wuhan market
By AP – published by NBC News and The Guardian
Newly released genetic data gathered from a seafood market in Wuhan has linked Covid-19 with raccoon dogs, adding weight to the theory that infected animals sold at the site started the coronavirus pandemic.
‘Big Joke’ going to Phuket to probe sex trafficking of teen girls
Deputy National Police Chief Pol. Lt. Gen. Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn is heading for Phuket to expand an underage sex-trafficking case after a raid on an entertainment venue there.
Bank lifelines ease global financial crisis fears
By Reuters – published by US News & World Report, and INN News
Fears of a global financial crisis eased today (Mar. 17) after large US banks rescued First Republic Bank while Credit Suisse secured a $54 billion loan from the Swiss central bank.
Pheu Thai unlikely to reach 310-MPs target: KPI executive
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
While Pheu Thai Party is going all out to get 310 MPs in the upcoming election, a KPI executive doubts it will reach this goal as other parties will be stealing its votes.
Sam Mit leaders to liaise between Pheu Thai and Palang Pracharath
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The move by Sam Mit faction leaders from Palang Pracharath to Pheu Thai is aimed at liaising between the two camps to set up a coalition government, a partisan source said.
South Korea denies blacklisting Thais from 4 northeastern provinces
The South Korean embassy issued a notice denying that its government had blacklisted people from four northeastern Thai provinces today (Mar. 16).
Don’t use nail polish to whiten teeth: Panda Lab Doctor
Those who want to whiten their teeth were warned by a Panda Lab Doctor post to not use nail polish to do so as it is incredibly dangerous and to go to a dentist instead.
Prawit airs dissent to use of force against lone woman in Prayut’s presence
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
In a rare occurrence Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan voiced disagreement to police using force against an elderly woman who staged a protest against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha in Ratchaburi.
Vietnam blasts Cambodia’s pricey SEA Games broadcasting rights
A Vietnamese news site slammed Cambodia for charging Thailand US$800,000 for broadcasting rights of the upcoming SEA Games as this is far higher than what their country had charged at the previous event.
Credit Suisse shares sink as top shareholder rules out more cash
Credit Suisse shares hit a new all-time low after a top investor in the embattled Swiss bank said it would not be able to provide more cash on regulatory grounds.
Policeman firing shots from his house captured after long siege
A Special Branch policeman who had been firing shots from his house since late yesterday morning (Mar. 14) was finally captured at around noon today after a police team stormed in.
Thai woman falls to death from Pattaya condo
A young Thai woman fell to her death from the seventh floor unit of a Pattaya condo she shared with her sister and her boyfriend before dawn today (Mar. 15).
Top transport portfolio returned to Bhumjaithai
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The sought-after Transport Ministry portfolio was returned to Bhumjaithai today (Mar. 14) after Palang Pracharath held it for a few days and started speeding up various projects.
Somsak, Suriya skipping over from Palang Pracharath to Pheu Thai
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Two Sam Mit group leaders will very soon be skipping from Palang Pracharath to Pheu Thai Party whose members remain loyal to Thaksin Shinawatra.
SVB shockwaves rattle global banks in grip of contagion fears
By Reuters – published by Yahoo!news and Matichon
Global banking shares remained under pressure today (Mar. 14) as fears lingered over the fallout from Silicon Valley Bank’s collapse with the Thai SET Index plunging 48.22 points, or 3.07%.
Skytrain staff threaten to stop running trains if 50 billion baht debt not repaid
Skytrain employees submitted a letter to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to start repaying almost 50 billion baht debt and threatened to stop running trains if this is not done.
Polling agency secretary-general urged to forward case against Ruam Thai Sang Chart
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Thai Liberal’s policy steersman urged the polling agency’s secretary-general to forward the case against the pro-Prayut Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party involving unlawful references to the monarchy to the commissioners.
Court sets up fact-finding panel over grey senator getting off the hook
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Supreme Court President has set up a fact-finding committee to delve into a judge revoking an arrest warrant for an alleged grey senator.
Mae Hong Son drowning in toxic dust as PM2.5 exceeds 224
Mae Hong Son is drowning in toxic dust today (Mar. 13) as PM2.5 rises higher than 224 µg/m³ with the air quality being poor in many other provinces including Bangkok and its vicinity.
Minimal impact on Thailand from collapse of 2 US banks
The failure of two US banks, Signature and Silicon Valley Bank, only has a slight impact on Thailand as there were no transactions nor investments in them, Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said.
Offbeat multiverse movie ‘Everything Everywhere’ dominates the Oscars
By Reuters and published by Cyprus Mail
“Everything Everywhere All at Once” dominated the 95th Academy Awards with seven wins including best actress for Michelle Yeoh and best picture with the 60-year-old Malaysian actress becoming the first Asian to win this trophy.
Red shirt-led Udon Thani prefers Thaksin’s daughter for PM: NIDA poll
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Thaksin Shinawatra’s youngest daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra is the favourite to be prime minister in Red Shirt bastion Udon Thani as shown by a NIDA poll
Avoid live blood analysis, Panda Lab Doctor warns
The popular Panda Lab Doctor warned people not to undergo live blood analysis which costs a lot of money and is not accepted in laboratory practice.
4 injured as jealous soldier attacks motorcycle taxi riders
A soldier on leave and helping his girlfriend sell milk became jealous of motorcycle taxi riders parked in front and injured four of them in an attack with a sickle and ping-pong bombs.
Photos of Prayut lookalike going viral
Going viral on Thai social media are images of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s lookalike, vocational education expert Mr. Sinthao Chaisawat.
Thanathorn insists military be kept out of politics for good
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit underscored that the military must be kept out of politics for good during Move Forward’s campaign rally in Chaiyaphum today (Mar. 11).
FEATURE: Electoral campaign catchphrases, who cares?
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Political parties have coined some pithy slogans as election fever rises in the country but a former election commissioner pointed out whether they are carried out depends on the key people of various camps.
2 young activists end hunger strike after 53 days to live and fight on
Two female activists who have been on a severe hunger strike since Jan.18 ended their protest fast after 53 days today (Mar.11) to live and fight on for freeing of political detainees.
Chinese tourists’ school uniform fad reaches Phuket
A craze among Chinese tourists to take photos clad in Thai school uniforms while holidaying here has now reached Phuket after first cropping up in Chiang Mai.
US bank collapse biggest failure since 2008
By Reuters and published by Financialexpress.com
Global markets were rocked by the sudden collapse of US start-up focused Silicon Valley Bank which is the biggest failure since the financial crisis of 2008 and exposes banking “vulnerabilities” amid rising rates.
Schoolgirl shot dead in front of Pattani mosque
One of two schoolgirls sitting in front of a mosque in Pattani this morning (Mar. 10) died after being shot by a gunman who drove past in a SUV and quickly sped away.
Pad Thai listed by Oxford dictionary website as an international word
So tasty and well-known worldwide is Pad Thai that it has now been listed by the Oxford dictionary website as an international word similar to pizza from Italy.
Prayut shrugs off Prawit’s ‘Step Beyond Conflict’ slogan
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha downplayed Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan’s “Step Beyond Conflict” slogan saying he has not seen any conflict brewing in the political arena.
Phang Nga’s anti-graft chief checks yellow elder trees costing over 6,000 baht each
Phang Nga’s anti-graft chief inspected a canal improvement project amid allegations that yellow elder trees were purchased for 6,090.50 baht each.
Woman stabbed at Pratunam market, later dies in hospital
A Myanmar woman who was stabbed five times at Pratunam market today (Mar. 9) later died in a hospital with her attacker being her colleague, a Myanmar man, who ran a fruit stall with her.
Foreigner found dead with slit throat in Pattaya
A Norwegian man was found dead with a slit throat in Pattaya with police assuming it was suicide as he had turned quiet and said he wanted to die after breaking up with his Thai girlfriend recently.
Criminal Court judge to be quizzed over over letting grey senator off the hook
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Move Forward MP Rangsiman Rome petitioned a judiciary panel to question a Criminal Court judge over revoking an arrest warrant for a grey senator.
Prommin emerges as latest among trio of Pheu Thai candidates for PM
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The third of Pheu Thai’s trio candidates for premiership now seems to be Prommin Lertsuridej, a former deputy prime minister and energy minister, partisan sources said.
Over 1.3 million air-pollution cases so far this year
Air-pollution related cases jumped to 1,325,838 during Jan. 1-Mar. 5 this year with this week’s total being 196,311 while 31,081 people died from exposure to PM.2.5 in 2019.
HelloFresh drops Thai coconut milk after Peta’s monkey labour drive
By The Guardian, Daily Mail and Sanook.com
Meal kit provider HelloFresh announced this week that it will no longer sell Thai-sourced coconut milk in response to Peta’s campaign over use of monkey labour.
S.Korean pig farm owner arrested for disposing of Thai worker’s dead body
By Choi Jae-hee, The Korea Herald
A pig farm owner in South Korea was arrested for disposing of the dead body of a Thai worker earlier this month amid accusations of poor working conditions and mistreatment.
Pheu Thai dissolution sought for using politically banned Nattawut
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The pro-Prayut party asked the polling agency to move on getting Pheu Thai Party dissolved for letting former Red Shirt leader Nattawut Saikua help campaign despite being politically banned.
Park blushes as pink trumpets take over
By Peeranut P., Sanook.com
With Tabebuia rosea or pink trumpet trees in full bloom at Suan Rot Fai park this is a great opportunity to enjoy this wondrous beauty right in the heart of Bangkok.
Wild elephants flee raging forest fires in Trat
With forest fires having razed over 2,500 rai of forests in Trat it has now led to wild elephants escaping their habitat for safety.
Shot fired in Phuket parking lot rage
A heated argument between two drivers at a Phuket hospital parking lot led to a shot being fired but fortunately it missed the mark and the other driver was not hit.
Increased pay for village-based public health volunteers not meant to woo votes: Satit
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A pay rise for village-based public health volunteers is not a tactic to win votes, Democrat Party’s deputy leader Satit Pitutacha said.
Saksayam could possibly be denied right to run for MP
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Bhumjaithai Secretary-General Saksayam Chidchod faces being barred from running in the upcoming election if found guilty of concealing his assets, a Move Forward MP said.
Web page alleges yellow elder trees bought for over 6,000 baht each in Phang Nga
A Thai web page alleged that the Phang Nga administration purchased 37 yellow elder trees for over 6,000 baht each as part of a canal improvement project.
Training launched to help drivers to get their points back
Drivers keen on getting some or all their 12 points back before they are restored annually may now attend a training course and take a test to do so.
Tourist takes action about being slapped, handcuffed by pub guard
An American tourist who was slapped and handcuffed by a pub guard over a misunderstanding about a bottle of water today (Mar. 5) filed a police report against him and the owner.
Angry owner sets sedan on fire after repeated problems
The angry owner of a sedan that repeatedly developed electrical system problems today (Mar. 5) set it on fire and is now feeling a lot happier.
Hunt for passenger after paramotor crashes into Pak Sak Jolasid dam
A two-seater paramotor crashed into Pak Sak Jolasid dam last evening (Mar. 4) with the injured pilot rescued and search for the passenger missing in the reservoir continuing.
Parcels of Ice mixed with ground coffee heading for Australia seized
Two parcels of crystal methamphetamine (Ice) mixed with ground coffee being sent to Australia and another suspicious parcel going to Japan were seized in Bangkok.
Khao San road opposing BMA’s order to remove shop signs
Khao San road entrepreneurs have appealed to the Interior Ministry to talk to the City Hall to put off removal of shop signs pointing out it is the uniqueness of this tourist area.
Fire guts Met police building in Sathorn
A fierce fire gutted Metropolitan Police Division 5’s three-storey building in the Sathorn area before dawn today (Mar. 4) but fortunately there were no casualties.
Prayut cancels, postpones trips over swollen hand
Prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha cancelled one provincial inspection trip and postponed another at the advice of his doctors after his right hand got swollen.
Ruam Thai Sang Chart dissolution sought for undue reference to late monarch
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The polling agency was petitioned to look into dissolving Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party after a key member openly mentioned late King Rama IX the Great in a campaign speech.
Saksayam immediately suspended by court from ministerial duties
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Constitutional Court today (Mar. 3) immediately suspended Bhumjaithai secretary-general Saksayam Chidchob from carrying out duties as transport minister over alleged share-holding.
Draft prostitution law to set voluntary service at minimum 20 years
A new prostitution law is being drafted with voluntary sexual service without criminal punishment to be set at 20 years of age.
Avoid popular fried dough sticks, iced tea for breakfast: health official
By Channel News Asia
Despite Pa Thong Ko and Thai iced tea making it to top ten rankings on TasteAtlas, an online travel guide, the Health Department chief urged consumers to avoid them as they are a health risk.
Monthly pay increase for all subdistrict administrative officials confirmed
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha announced a pay rise for all local administrative officials today (Mar. 2) amid criticism it is a campaign ploy to win votes.
Chuwit challenges adversary to a boxing match at Met police HQ
Graft-buster Chuwit Kamolvisit challenged former policeman Santhana Prayoonrat to a boxing bout at the Met police headquarters when the latter showed up to push his complaints against him.
Suspect in student visa scam nabbed
Police arrested a suspect in a student visa scam who duped parents of students studying at an international school after infiltrating their Line group and offering a bogus service.
Trat market vendors deny monitor lizard meat sold there
After two suspects caught with a large number of monitor lizards said the meat is destined for the Thai-Cambodian border area in Trat, vendors at a market there said people don’t eat this meat.
Covid-19 conspiracies soar after latest report on origins
By AP and published by Yahoo!News
Conspiracy theories on the origins on Covid-19 skyrocketed after FBI Director Christopher Wray said the pandemic most likely originated in a Wuhan lab.
Members of ‘independent’ agencies could be deposed by people: Thai Liberal
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Thai Liberal Party’s steersman said people could move to depose members of “supposedly independent” agencies if they fail to maintain this standpoint.
Thais fuming over British Ambassador to Cambodia’s ‘Khmer dessert’ photo
Thai netizens were displeased after the British Ambassador to Cambodia posted a photo on his Facebook page captioned “Khmer dessert” with these known to be Thai dessert.
Concern over impact of election lingering till August
As private sector investment is slowing down till August when a new government is expected to be in place greater public sector expenditure is now needed, a top business body said.
Ex-boyfriend critically injures kindergarten teacher
A kindergarten teacher’s former boyfriend shot her twice in the chest this afternoon (Mar. 1) and then ran away with Nong Bua Lamphu police hunting for him.
Yaowapa is back for Pheu Thai constituency-based contestants
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s sister Yaowapa Wongsawat has returned to the political arena to help Pheu Thai constituency-based contestants from behind the scenes.
Dozen more MPs leave for pro-Prayut party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A dozen more MPs have hopped over to the pro-Prayut party while the Prime Minister remained mum on the exact date he may dissolve the House and call an election.
Key suspect in macau888 gambling case and girlfriend fled weeks ago
Four of seven more suspects wanted in macau888 online gambling network case have fled abroad including Benz Daemon’s younger brother and his ex-actress girlfriend.
Surveillance ramped up at checkpoint as Cambodia’s bird flu death toll rises to 2
Officials stepped up surveillance to the highest level at Aranyaprathet checkpoint after the bird flu death toll in Cambodia rose to two today (Feb. 28).
China says TikTok ban reflects US insecurities
By AP and published by CTV News
China slammed US after the White House told government agencies to remove Chinese-owned app TikTok from federal devices over concerns it could be used to obtain private user data or push misinformation.
Prawit repeats vow to step beyond conservative-liberal conflict
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan again vowed to step beyond the conservative-liberal conflict and compromise should he take the helm after the upcoming election.
Pornpet advises all senators to not visit campaign venues
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Senate Speaker told all senators they should not attend electoral campaigns as they could then be accused of not maintaining neutrality among contesting parties.
Indian, Chinese investors buying pubs, restaurants in Pattaya
While both Indian and Chinese investors have invested the most in buying businesses in Pattaya, the former have not integrated their investment as a comprehensive tourism venture.
Worker dies as tower crane collapses at Bangkok construction site
A tower crane collapsed at a construction site in the Chatuchak area of Bangkok killing one worker this afternoon (Feb. 27) but none of the others were trapped.
China has some doubt on ability to invade Taiwan: CIA chief
By AP and published by CNA
CIA chief William Burns said while Chinese President Xi Jinping has told his military to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027 he may now be having some doubts to go by Russia’s experience in Ukraine.
Viruses in Cambodian bird flu cases identified as endemic clade
By Reuters and published by Yahoo!News
A US disease control body said the viruses in Cambodian bird flu cases are an endemic clade circulating among birds and poultry for many years and not a new strain of H5N1.
Thaksin’s right-hand man denies seeing boss in HK
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s right-hand man currently deputy Pheu Thai leader Bhumtham Vejchayachai denied meeting his boss in Hong Kong over the weekend.
Thaksin in HK to monitor Pheu Thai campaign in Chiang Mai
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is in Hong Kong to monitor a Pheu Thai electoral campaign in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai where his daughter Paetongtarn is drumming up support this weekend.
Some 23 million voters to snub pro-Prayut parties, candidates: Academic
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A Thammasat law lecturer expects 23 million voters to reject parties and candidates backing Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha in the upcoming election.
Low-grade meth pills, cheaper than soft drinks, entering Isaan
A cheaper variety of meth pills with insecticide being the precursor has started entering the Northeast with 10 million of them seized in one week.
Pub guard blasted for slapping, handcuffing foreign tourist
A pub guard was seen in a viral video clip slapping and handcuffing a foreigner while accusing him of theft as the latter, who spoke Thai, denied stealing anything.
Over a million trees set to be grown to build a dust wall in Bangkok
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt’s policy to plant a million trees to build a dust wall and green the city is well underway with 1,641,310 booked to be grown and over 200,000 planted so far.
Call centre scammers steal 16 million baht from businessman
A Chonburi businessman lost 16 million baht after call-centre scammers tricked him into installing an app that took control of his mobile phone and emptied his bank accounts.
Thai economy to grow 3.8% this year, inflation to ebb: Finance minister
By Reuters and published by CNA
Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said today (Feb. 25) that the Thai economy will likely grow by 3.8 percent this year on the back of surging tourism while inflation will slide.
Legal action could be taken against polling agency over pro-Prayut event
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Thai Liberal Party strategy steerman said he will take legal action against the polling agency if they do not probe a pro-Prayut event held by Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party last month.
Ruam Thai Sang Chart leader challenged to show evidence on renting grey senator’s property
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Move Forward MP Rangsiman Rome dared Ruam Thai Sang Chart leader to show evidence on claimed lawful renting of a grey senator’s property allegedly bought with laundered cash.
Chuwit sprays cleaning solution at Transport Ministry, does not submit evidence
Graft-buster Chuwit Kamolvisit today (Feb. 24) sprayed a cleaning solution at the Transport Ministry but did not submit evidence on alleged corruption surrounding the Orange Rail Line
Driving instructor surrenders after killing highway policeman
A driving instructor who slammed his sedan at a police motorcycle killing the officer and ran away surrendered last night (Feb. 23) saying fear led to him fleeing.
G7 presses IMF for Ukraine aid as Yellen says Russia hurting
By AFP and published by CNA
G7 finance chiefs urged the IMF to give Ukraine more aid while US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said sanctions are hurting Russia even though its economy held up better than expected.
Ruam Thai Sang Chart forecasts Pheu Thai dissolution: Chonlanan
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The pro-Prayut Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party has predicted that Pheu Thai will be dissolved by court for allegedly being under the sway of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra.
Chalermchai vows to promote ‘Sex toys Made in Thailand’ campaign
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Chalermchai Sri-on vowed to push a novel “Sex toys Made in Thailand” campaign amidst sustained rubber price slumps in the domestic market.
Minister keen on channelling natural rubber to sex toy market
Agriculture Minister Chalermchai Sri-on said today (Feb. 23) that Thai natural rubber should be channelled to the production of sex toys and dolls to boost the price of this commodity.
Air pollution cost Thai economy 4.616 trillion baht in 2019: Academic
A Thai academic said air pollution caused 4.616 trillion baht economic damage to Thai households in 2019 with all provinces except Phuket affected.
Kanokwan banned from politics for life over Khao Yai encroachment case
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former deputy education minister Kanokwan Wilawan was found guilty of encroaching upon a national forest and banned from politics for life.
Ford dealer insists vehicle was new, willing to buy it back
A Ford dealer in Rayong insisted that a pickup truck purchased by a woman who complained it was fitted with an old engine and chassis was new and is willing to buy it back.
3 drug runners die in collision of two pickup trucks
Three drug traffickers died when two pickup trucks collided in Mukdahan before dawn today (Feb. 22) with 2.1 million methamphetamine pills found stacked in their vehicle.
Prawit might be prime minister only for a year: Academic
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
While Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan will likely become the prime minister after the next election it will only be for a year, NIDA Poll director Suwicha Pao-ari said.
House dissolution early next month: Prayut
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha confirmed today (Feb.21) that he will dissolve the House of Representatives next month with an election likely to be held on May 7.
7 countries joining Kun Khmer kickboxing matches at SEA Games
With Thailand and Cambodia sparring over whether kickboxing should be called “Muay Thai” or “Kun Khmer”, Phnom Penh said today (Feb. 21) seven countries will be joining Kun Khmer matches at the SEA Games.
China, Russia deepen ties as Biden rallies Nato’s ‘frontline’ over Ukraine
By Reuters and published by Swissinfo.ch
China pledged to deepen ties with Russia as US President Joe Biden reaffirmed security assurances for Nato’s “frontline” eastern members.
ChatGPT launches boom in AI-written e-books on Amazon
By Reuters and published by CNA
ChatGPT appears ready to upend the book industry as would-be novelists and self-help gurus turn to the software to help create bot-made e-books.
Mae Sai-Tachileik cross-border trade to reach 10bn baht a year
Myanmar people are flocking to Mae Sai border town after the reopening of the checkpoint yesterday (Feb 20) with the cross-border trade and tourism expected to generate 10 billion baht a year.
Tour boats moored at Samut Prakan pier catch fire
Three tour boats were gutted and one other damaged after a fire erupted and spread from one of them as they were moored for repairs at a Samut Prakan pier this morning (Feb. 21).
Biden walks through Kyiv to show resolve ahead of war’s anniversary
By Reuters and published by US News & World Report
US President Joe Biden walked around Kyiv during a surprise visit and vowed to back Ukraine in its fight against Russia for “as long as it takes.”
Fresh quake hits Turkey-Syria border area two weeks after disaster
By Reuters and published by Cyprus Mail
Another earthquake hit the Turkey-Syria border area on Monday (Feb. 20) with the death toll from the disaster two weeks ago soaring to 47,000 people.
Police urged to confiscate Ruam Thai Sang Chart HQ building over money-laundering scam
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A Move Forward MP told police to confiscate a building rented to Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party as its headquarters because it is allegedly owned by a notorious money-laundering suspect.
Doctor warns children should not eat cannabis jellies
A Thai doctor said cannabis jellies are leading to children being hospitalised and urged tighter control of marijuana consumption.
Big lot of meth pills seized from boat at Golden Triangle
A navy unit together with some rangers seized around 6.4 million methamphetamine pills from a boat sailing through the Mekong river in the Golden Triangle last night (Feb. 19).
Koh Samui gears up for wellness tourism
With the opening of a new hospital on Koh Samui, there is now a push to turn this island as well as Koh Tao and Koh Phangan into a wellness destination.
Police lieutenant general shot dead by wife
A police lieutenant general was shot dead by his wife at their house during an argument this afternoon (Feb. 19) with the weeping woman taken to the police station for questioning.
Woman fuming at getting an old engine in a new pickup she bought in cash
A woman who was cheated by a dealer who had fitted a new pickup truck she bought in cash with a two-year-old engine and chassis asked the media for help.
Ukraine presses US Congress members for F-16 jet fighters: Lawmakers
By Reuters and published by CNA
Ukrainian officials lobbied US congress members to urge President Joe Biden’s administration to provide F-16 jet fighters on the sidelines of a security conference.
Air force’s F-5 fighter jets now upgraded
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The air force has completed upgrading a squadron of F-5TH Super Tigris fighter jets while moving to acquire a squadron F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters.
US tries to woo India away from Russia with display of F-35s, bombers
By Reuters and published by CNA
In trying to woo India away from Russia, US brought its most advanced fighter jet, the F-35, plus F-16s, Super Hornets and B-1B bombers to a week-long air show in Bengaluru.
Thai Liberal offers to endorse Palang Pracharath boss for PM
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Thai Liberal leader Seripisut Temiyavej backed Palang Pracharath boss Prawit Wongsuwan for prime minister on the condition that the pro-Prayut party is not included in a coalition.
Thai-Myanmar checkpoint talks cancelled over military threat
A meeting between Chaing Rai governor and Shan State chief minister on reopening Mae Sai-Tachileik border checkpoint was cancelled over military threat by anti-junta forces.
Two men dead in a game of Russian roulette
Two men died while playing a game of Russian roulette early this morning (Feb. 18) as they sat drinking with other friends in front of a shop in Ayutthaya.
ISOC needed for national security-related missions: Prayut
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said the Internal Security Operations Command is still needed for key missions despite an MP calling for the deep-state agency to be abolished during last night’s (Feb. 16) censure debate.
Anucha leaves Prawit’s camp for Pro-Prayut party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister’s Office Minister Anucha Nakhasai has hopped over to the pro-Prayut Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party from Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan’s camp.
Two top Finance Ministry officials accused of shady Bangchak stock trade
Two senior Finance Ministry officials who are also Bangchak Corporation Plc directors face investigation over likely insider trading of this company’s shares.
Move Forward MP calls for abolition of army-led ISOC
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A Move Forward MP suggested during the censure debate that the army-led Internal Security Operations Command be abolished for allegedly prosecuting people with opposing views as if they were enemies of the state.
‘Culture of crooks in uniform’ thrives under Sam Por: MPs
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Move Forward MPs lashed out at a “culture of crooks in uniform” that they said is thriving under the powerful Sam Por trio on the second day of the censure debate.
Grey senator ‘turned posh Bangkok spot into Ruam Thai Sang Chart HQ’
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Move Forward MP Rangsiman Rome accused a grey senator of grabbing a pricey downtown property and turning it into Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party headquarters during the censure debate last night (Feb. 15).
Prayut urged to step up legal action against own nephew over grey business
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was told to accelerate legal action against his nephew over alleged links to a Chinese-born grey businessman during today’s (Feb. 15) censure debate.
Hunger strikers accept potassium amid concern about malnutrition
The two female political detainees on a severe hunger strike since Jan. 18 today (Feb. 16) started taking much-needed potassium with doctors concerned about extreme malnutrition.
Krabi checking modified long-tail boats after 3 capsizes in 2 months
Krabi’s marine officials have called 70-80 long-tail boats now fitted with a wooden roof for inspection as three of them capsized in two months leading to two tourists being killed.
Actress gives more information about macau888 as Benz Daemon is detained
Police said they got useful information about the macau888 online gambling network from actress Arisara “Due” Thongburisut while her ex-boyfriend has been detained after returning to Thailand.
Coach praises ‘Wild Boars’ football team captain who died in UK
By Sanook.com, Daily Mail and BBC
The coach of the “Wild Boars” youth football team who were trapped in Tham Luang cave for 17 days in 2018 praised the captain, Duangphet Phromthep, who died in UK for sticking to the football path.
Thai woman wanted for fatal hit-and-run in US ready to return
Police tracked down a Thai woman who is now a US citizen and is wanted in Michigan for a fatal hit-and-run on New Year’s Day and are moving to extradite her.
US renews warning it’ll defend Philippines after China spat
By Jim Gomez – AP and published by Yahoo!News
US issued a warning to China that it will defend the Philippines after a Chinese coast guard ship allegedly hit a Philippine patrol vessel with military-grade laser.
Analysis: Like it or not, Prawit most likely to become PM
By Out-Crowd
With the election drawing closer it now seems clear that Palang Pracharath Party leader Prawit Wongsuwan is the one most likely to become the next prime minister.
Soldier, cadet killed in overturning of light tank
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A Thai army Scorpion light tank overturned during an exercise in Lopburi today (Feb. 14) leading to an army soldier and an army cadet being killed.
Two dead as tank overturns during joint exercise
A soldier and a cadet died when the Scorpion light tank they were travelling in plunged down a cliff during a joint exercise this morning (Feb. 14).
Covid count reaches around 2,800-3,889 a day in Thailand
A Chulalongkorn University doctor said that daily Covid-19 count was around 2,800-3,889 during Feb. 5-11, 2023 and people should continue being careful.
Electoral contestants not allowed to hand out roses on Valentine’s Day
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Election Commission warned electoral contestants they are not allowed to hand out roses to their constituents tomorrow, Valentine’s Day, as they would be violating the law.
Phuket van driver’s licence suspended after being filmed playing slot games
A Phuket van driver is looking for a new job after being filmed playing slot games on his mobile phone while driving a van from Patong beach to the downtown.
3.7-magnitude earthquake hits Phang Nga province
A 3.7-magnitude earthquake struck Phang Nga province this afternoon (Feb. 13) with this being near the Khlong Marui Fault Zone.
‘Big Joke’: Foreigner in girlfriend’s death on watchlist
Deputy National Police Chief Pol. Lt. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, whose nickname is Big Joke, said the Canadian boyfriend of a Thai woman found hanged in Phuket had been placed on watchlist.
Yuck! German ballet chief allegedly wipes dog faeces on critic’s face
By Reuters and published by CNA
A German choreographer allegedly smeared dog faeces on the face of a dance critic at the weekend premiere of a new show, leading to a police investigation.
Paetongtarn ‘not No.1 Pheu Thai candidate for PM’
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A senator foresees that former premier Thaksin Shinawatra’s daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra will not be named Pheu Thai Party’s top choice for premiership with someone else stepping in at the last moment.
Brother suspects foreigner was linked to sister’s death
The brother of a woman who was inv