Popular website says schools have started to close as Covid spreads
The widely-visited website Panda Lab Doctor and other netizens said today (Nov.18) and some of the 12,000 schools that reopened this month have shut down as Covid-19 started spreading among students.
People-endorsed constitution amendment bill voted down
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Failing to see the light of day was a people-endorsed charter amendment bill aimed at keeping Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha from extending his rule that was voted down by government MPs and senators today (Nov. 17).
85 academics repudiate Constitutional Court’s ruling against monarchical reform bids
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
As many as 85 academics from various universities repudiated the Constitutional Court’s ruling against monarchical reform efforts today (Nov. 17).
Move to ban unvaccinated people from public places
A Public Health Ministry subcommittee is moving to propose that unvaccinated people be barred from public places as Thailand gets close to administering 100 million jabs.
Youth posts sarcastic message after Covid jabs triggered hair loss
A 19-year-old youth who lost almost all the hair on his head after 2 Sinovac jabs said sarcastically 400,000 baht compensation is not enough, it should be one million baht.
Thailand not among 95 nations allowed to make Pfizer Covid pill
By US News &World Report and Sanook.com
Pfizer Inc. is partnering with the Medicines Patent Pool in allowing 95 developing countries to make and sell its Covid-19 antiviral pill cheaply but Thailand is not among them.
Thailand becomes first foreign customer of AT-6 light-attack aircraft
Thailand became the first international buyer of AT-6 Wolverine armed turboprops having signed a 4.675 billion baht contract to acquire eight of them.
Lawmakers open marathon debate on people-endorsed constitution amendment bill
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A marathon debate started in Parliament today (Nov. 16) on the merits of a constitution amendment bill endorsed by an estimated 150,000 people that has slim chance of being passed.
Thai-style democratic rule keeps people ruled by unelected, unaccountable elite: Pita
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat drew attention to deep flaws in the Thai-style democratic rule during a constitution amendment debate at Parliament this evening (Nov. 16).
Dismissed cop who guarded Yingluck gets promoted
A police colonel dismissed for accompanying fugitive former premiers Thaksin and Yingluck Shinawatra to watch the 2018 World Cup in Russia but later reinstated has now been promoted to the rank of deputy commander.
Stressed woman leaves toddler sleeping in the car and jumps into the canal
A woman stressed out after separating from her husband jumped into a canal running through the Motorway last night leaving their 3-year-old daughter asleep in her parked car.
3 demonstrators, 2 policemen injured during yesterday’s protest
The protesters’ march from Pathumwan intersection to the German Embassy to hand over their petition last night (Nov. 14) left three demonstrators and two policemen injured.
Billboards welcoming Prayut to Krabi slashed and torn
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Some billboards erected to welcome Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to Krabi were slashed and torn before dawn today (Nov. 15).
Rung denied bail in crop top Section 112 case
Denied bail in a Criminal Code Section 112 case, known as the lese majeste law, was protest leader Rung with this stemming from wearing a crop top to a shopping mall.
Joe Ferrari indicted on 4 charges, faces death penalty
The Office of Attorney General today (Nov. 15) confirmed Joe Ferrari and six other suspects have been indicted on four charges and face death penalty.
‘Absolute Monarchy’ protested on Bangkok streets, petition against it lodged to Germany
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Protesters who fear “absolute monarchy” allegedly being reintroduced in Thailand as they see “semi-monarchical rule” now setting in, submitted a petition on this issue to the German Embassy this evening (Nov. 14).
Protest moved to Pathumwan intersection amid tight control
The various groups staging a demonstration this afternoon (Nov. 14) moved the venue from Democracy Monument to Pathumwan intersection after all routes to the former were closed.
Containers placed at Sanam Luang to handle demonstration
Police placed containers and rolled out barbed wire at Sanam Luang today (Nov. 14) as a big demonstration is to start at Democracy Monument then move to the ground.
Lively but orderly concert at Jomtien beach
There was fun galore but in a well-organised manner at a concert on Jomtien beach last night (Nov. 12) with this being the start of the second week of this festival in Pattaya.
Police fully ready for demonstrations taking place today and tomorrow
Metropolitan Police are on their toes to handle demonstrations by key activist groups in some areas of the city today and tomorrow (Nov. 13-14).
Constitutional Court website hacking suspect arrested
A young man was arrested at his home on the charges of hacking the Constitutional Court’s website and posting hip-hop group Death Grips’ “Guillotine (It goes Yah)” music video there.
8 Koh Samui resort bungalows destroyed in rain-triggered landslide
Pounding rain overnight triggered a landslide that destroyed eight bungalows at a Koh Samui resort but fortunately only some staff got slightly injured.
Young generations to take to streets again despite court’s ruling: Academic
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
An academic said the young generations will likely stage more protests to push for monarchical reform despite the Constitutional Court’s ruling that such action “undermine democratic rule with the Monarch as head of state.”
Amnesty International: Court ruling a dangerous signal to freedom of expression
Amnesty International said the Constitutional Court’s ruling against three activists has widespread impact and is a dangerous signal to freedom of expression.
Prosecutors: Case against Joe Ferrari not concluded
The Office of the Attorney General dismissed news that a decision has already been made to indict Joe Ferrari on recommended charges as police were told to launch another probe and file additional charges.
Reopening of entertainment venues put off to Jan. 15
The Covid administration today (Nov. 12) decided to postpone the reopening of entertainment venues such as pubs, bars and karaoke lounges from Dec. 1, 2021 to Jan. 15, 2022.
23 university student organisations reject Constitutional Court’s ruling
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Rejecting the Constitutional Court’s ruling yesterday (Nov. 10) that calls for monarchical reform were designed to “undermine democratic rule with the Monarch as head of state” were 23 university student organisations.
Big hunt for Constitutional Court website hacker
The Digital Economy and Society Ministry has kicked off a big hunt for the hacker of the Constitutional Court website who posted hip-hop group Death Grips’ “Guillotine (It goes Yah)” music video there.
Constitutional Court’s website hacked to play music video
The Constitutional Court’s website was hacked and American experimental hip-hop group Death Grips’ “Guillotine (It goes Yah)” music video posted there after yesterday’s (Nov.10) ruling against three activists.
Court only listened to one side of monarchical reform story: Defendant
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Constitutional Court was lambasted for only listening to one side of the story in ruling that 3 activists “undermined the rule with the Monarch as head of state” with their 10 demands.
Rung denies aiming to overthrow democratic institution, monarchy
After the Constitutional Court today (Nov. 10) ruled that 3 activists, including Rung, were aiming to overthrow the democratic institution with the King as head of state, she strongly denied doing so.
Wine cooler at Election Commission ‘used to keep fruit juice for guests’
Amid heavy social media scrutiny a former election commissioner said the wine cooler at his friend’s office was only used to keep fruit juice for guests.
Election Commission deletes photo after netizens zoom in on suspicious cabinet
A photo of an election commissioner giving an interview was quickly deleted after netizens noticed a cabinet at the corner of the room that looked like a wine cooler.
Minister blasted over wild elephants killing villagers
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A House committee slammed Natural Resources & Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa for failing to protect villagers from elephant attacks with three killed last week.
210kg Ice hidden in sofas and heading for Malaysia seized
A Thai woman was arrested at Klong Toey port for trying to ship sofas in which 210 kilogrammes of Ice was hidden to Malaysia.
More high tides to hit 5 Bangkok zones this month
Bangkok administrators warned of more high tides during Nov. 7-13 and Nov. 20-26 with five zones told to brace for more flooding.
Another 1 million doses of Covid vaccine donated by US arriving here soon
An additional one million doses of Covid vaccine donated by US should arrive in Thailand by yearend.
Thailand plans to reopen borders to foreign workers amid shortage
By Reuters staff, published by Channel NewsAsia
In a move to ease labour shortage the Thai government is considering reopening its borders to workers from neighbouring countries with Covid rules to be decided tomorrow (Nov.10).
Water main break scares Chonburi shopkeepers
A huge water main break near a Chonburi market early this morning (Nov. 9) sent panicked shopkeepers scurrying for safety with their belongings.
Pheu Thai Party’s strategy of ‘trying to beat ’em and looking to bow to ’em’ just won’t work
By Out-Crowd
Pheu Thai Party’s strategy of ‘trying to beat ’em and looking to bow to ’em’ as seen from its about-face on lese majeste law, better known as Criminal Code Section 112, is a boon for Move Forward Party.
Prawit opens door to former senior official, police chief
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Palang Pracharath Party leader Prawit Wongsuwan is eager to welcome two political heavyweights, a former undersecretary of Interior and a former police chief, to join the fold.
Bangkok governor: Floodwater to rise again this evening, tomorrow morning
While apologising for heavy flooding in parts of Bangkok today (Nov. 8), Governor Asawin warned that floodwater will rise again this evening and tomorrow morning.
Motorists told to avoid Krung Thon bridge amid heavy flooding
With high tide leading to many areas in Bangkok and Samut Prakan being flooded this morning (Nov. 8), motorists were later told to avoid Krung Thon bridge and use Rama 8 and Rama 7 bridges instead.
16,595 foreign tourists arrived in 5 days, over 90,000 sign up for Thailand Pass
The first five days of the reopening of the country on the first of this month attracted 16,595 tourists with 90,165 applying for Thailand Pass up to yesterday (Nov. 6)
Daily Covid case count reaches 7,960 with Bangkok logging 529
From Thailand’s Covid tally of 7,960 cases and 53 deaths today (Nov.7) 529 were in Bangkok spread across all 50 districts.
2 jobless young men nabbed for growing marijuana at their condo
Two young men who were unable to get a job after graduating from university and started growing marijuana plants at their condo for sale were nabbed in a sting operation.
‘The stupid leader is leaving us all for dead’ hashtag now trending on Twitter
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The hashtag “the stupid leader is leaving us all for dead” has gone viral on Thai social media after Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha ordered troops to grow parsley.
Campaign to abolish Section 112 gets over 100,000 supporters
An online campaign backed by Progressive Movement chairman Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit to abolish lese majeste law, better known as Criminal Code Section 112, drew 102,528 signatures in 24 hours.
Police issue strong warning to racist gangs attacking Isaan people
After shocking abuses against Isaan people made at several Clubhouse chat rooms went viral yesterday (Nov. 5), police today issued a strong warning to desist from cyberbullying.
Three Bangkok districts Covid-free amid 8,148 cases nationwide
Of today’s (Nov. 5) 8,148 coronavirus cases, 613 were in Bangkok but three districts did not report any infection with there being 80 deaths overall.
Policeman transferred for escorting VIP motorcade
A Thonglor policeman seen escorting a VIP motorcade through the counterflow on Kamphaeng Phet 7 Road has been transferred to the headquarters.
Pfizer says antiviral pill cuts risk of severe Covid-19 by 89%
By Reuters staff, published by Channel NewsAsia
Pfizer’s experimental antiviral pill for Covid-19 cuts rates of hospitalisation and death by 89% in adults at risk of developing severe disease surpassing results of Merck’s pill.
PM stands firm on not amending Criminal Code Section 112
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha confirmed the coalition government is not tabling amendment of the lese majeste law, better known as Criminal Code Section 112, upon his return from COP26 United Nations summit in Glasgow last evening (Nov. 3).
Prayut orders military units to grow parsley to curb soaring prices
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
With the price of parsley having soared to 400 baht a kg because of the floods, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha today (Nov. 4) ordered military units to grow this and other vegetables.
Ayutthaya flood victims block highway to get help
Some Ayutthaya flood victims blocked a highway to draw attention to their plight and get a floodgate opened this morning (Nov. 4).
Policeman’s wife kills daughter, herself over money problems
A policeman’s wife stressed out over money woes killed her daughter and then jumped to her own death at police flats in Rayong today (Nov. 4).
Court orders 3 Palang Pracharath MPs to stop performing legislative duties
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Supreme Court ordered three Palang Pracharath MPs to stop performing their legislative duties pending a verdict on a misconduct charge.
Bhumjaithai MP ordered to discontinue legislative duties over payoff scandal
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Constitutional Court today (Nov. 3) ordered a Bhumjaithai MP to stop performing his legislative duties as a verdict is due over a bribery lawsuit filed against him.
Covid quarantine reduced from 14 to 10 days
The Public Health Ministry has cut the quarantine period for general Covid patients from 14 to 10 days and those with severe complications from 21 to 20 days.
Probe launched after officials slam young men for rescuing drowning couple
Udon Thani’s mayor has launched an investigation after officials blasted two young men for saving a drowning couple and not first informing the authorities.
China hits back after Biden criticises Xi’s COP26 no-show
By AFP and published by Channel NewsAsia
In a tit-for-tat verbal attack, China today (Nov. 3) criticised US President Joe Biden after he had blasted Chinese President Xi Jinping for skipping the COP26 summit in Glasgow.
Govt Centre security guards go on strike over unpaid wages
Most security guards at two buildings within the Government Centre did not show up to work this morning (Nov. 2) to protest late salary payment.
Palang Pracharath Party skipping Bangkok Governor race: Prawit
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Palang Pracharath Party will not be fielding a candidate in the upcoming Bangkok Governor election amid ruckus over supporting incumbent Governor Aswin Kwanmuang.
Employee of firm that shipped used medical gloves to US gets jail
A senior employee of the Thai company Paddy the Room that shipped millions of used medical gloves to the US was jailed for 8 years but this was reduced by half due to his useful confession.
Daily Covid tally drops but Bangkok still tops infection list
Even as the daily Covid count dropped to 7,574 cases and 78 deaths this morning (Nov. 2) Bangkok still topped the list of 10 provinces worst hit by coronavirus.
Welcome to Thailand! Tourists from 26 countries flying in during Nov. 1-5
Tourists from 26 countries are flying to Thailand during Nov. 1-5 with there being a total of 21,316 passengers – 15,037 inbound and 6,279 outbound.
Ex-police chief opts out of Bangkok’s gubernatorial race
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former police chief Chakthip Chaijinda dropped out of Bangkok’s gubernatorial election that would have pitted him against the incumbent governor who is also a police general.
Emergency room doctor blasted for refusing to treat sick woman
There is a social media uproar over an emergency room doctor refusing to treat a sick woman and telling her daughter to take her back home.
Activist group’s leader files complaint over alleged police brutality
The leader of the We Volunteer activist group filed a complaint at Din Daeng police station over alleged police brutality against a man attending a memorial event for a teenager who was shot during a protest and later died.
Activists call for freeing lese majeste detainees on bail at huge protest
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A huge protest took place at Ratchaprasong Intersection today (Oct. 31) to demand the abolition of lese majeste law and the release on bail of political detainees facing these charges.
Police warn no parties allowed despite easing of alcohol rule
Police warned Bangkok residents although the alcohol rule has been eased from tomorrow (Nov. 1) parties are not allowed while the number of countries allowed quarantine-free entry has been increased from 46 to 63.
Policeman commits suicide over debt problems
A policeman shot himself to death over heavy debts he had to clear after getting drunk and hallucinating in which state he twice tried to shoot his wife.
Man dressed as Joker terrorises Tokyo train
By Reuters staff, published by The Denver Gazette
A young man wearing Batman’s Joker costume attacked passengers on a Tokyo train this evening (Oct. 31) injuring around 10 people.
Doctor warns of superspreader risk from turning Bangkok into a blue zone
A Siriraj Hospital doctor warned that turning Bangkok into a blue zone and allowing hotels and restaurants to serve alcohol will definitely spark superspreading events.
Alcohol consumption allowed till 9 p.m. in Bangkok
Bangkok administrators have allowed alcohol to be served till 9 p.m. during Nov. 1-30 but only at SHA certified restaurants.
Ex-election commissioner joins Thai Liberal Party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A former election commissioner who contested the previous election under Democrat Party banners has now joined Thai Liberal Party.
Vietnam jails citizen journalists for ‘abusing democratic rights’
By AFP and published by Channel NewsAsia
US slammed Vietnam after it jailed five citizen journalists this week with this coming after a former radio journalist was similarly jailed last July.
Rung sues Prayut for limiting freedom of assembly
Protest leader Rung today (Oct. 29) sued Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and Defence Forces Chief Gen. Chalermpol Srisawad for limiting freedom of assembly.
No cabinet reshuffle arising from party conflict anytime soon: Prawit
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Palang Pracharth Party leader Prawit Wongsuwan ruled out a shakeup of his party’s cabinet members over the internal conflict which he confirmed has ended.
Prayut trips on podium, tells media not to publish photos
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha stumbled while climbing up a podium at Government House to address a press conference today (Oct. 29) and warned the media to not publish the photos.
Curfew only remains in 7 provinces; Bangkok a ‘blue zone’ to receive tourists
Curfew will only remain in seven provinces from Monday Nov. 1 onwards with Bangkok coming under the new blue tourism pilot scheme zone.
Thammanat remains intact as Palang Pracharath Party secretary-general
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Palang Pracharath Party secretary-general Thammanat Prompow today (Oct. 28) survived an ouster move with strong support from its leader Prawit Wongsuwan while Thaksin Shinawatra’s daughter Paetongtarn was named head of a Pheu Thai Party advisory team.
Teen protester shot in front of Din Daeng police station dies in hospital
A 15-year-old protester who was shot in front of Din Daeng police station and fought for his life in the hospital for almost three months died this morning (Oct. 28).
Doctor says Covid crisis in Chiang Mai at breaking point
A Chiang Mai doctor said the Covid situation in the northern city is now as bad as Bangkok was at its nadir with provincial authorities only focusing on reopening the country to tourism.
Man falls from building while escaping from lover’s husband
A young man got seriously injured after falling off the third floor of an apartment building in Chonburi today (Oct. 28) while trying to escape from his lover’s husband who had unexpectedly returned home from work.
Police: Suspect in kidnap case likely tipped off CNN about used medical gloves
Thai police said an American man who likely gave information to CNN on second-hand medical gloves being exported to the US is a suspect in a kidnap case.
7 Cabinet members quit Palang Pracharath Party’s executive board
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
In a stronger push to oust Thammanat Prompow from his key post in Palang Pracharath Party seven Cabinet members resigned from the party’s executive board today (Oct. 27)
Bangkok logs 702 Covid cases today as national total stands at 8,452
Bangkok saw its daily Covid total drop to 702 cases today (Oct.27) with Ladprao the worst hit while the national tally reached 8,452 infections.
Prawit mum over possible shakeup in Palang Pracharath Party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A major change is possibly looming in the Palang Pracharath Party with its leader Pawit Wongsuwan keeping quiet about the likelihood of the secretary-general being replaced.
Phuket gold shop robber nabbed
A gardener who worked for a wealthy Phuket family was arrested today (Oct. 26) and charged with robbing a gold shophouse of 378 baht weight gold worth over 10 million baht.
Rising PM 2.5 dust level will worsen Covid pandemic
PM 2.5 dust level has risen in Bangkok and other areas of the country over the past few days and this could exacerbate the Covid-19 pandemic.
Myanmar a no-show at summit after Asean sidelines junta boss
By Reuters and published by Channel NewsAsia
Myanmar junta opted to not send a non-political representative to the Asean summit after the junta chief was snubbed while a senior US official met representatives of the NUG.
Gambling den exposed in Transport Minister’s Buriram province
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
An MP facing a libel suit filed by Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob hit back by alleging that a gambling den is operating in the latter’s Buriram province.
Foreign Ministry halts donation of Moderna vaccine by Poland
The Thai Foreign Ministry halted the donation of 3 million doses of Moderna vaccine by Poland to Thammasat University Hospital because this was not done at the state-to-state level.
Deputy PM says export of millions of used medical gloves to US being probed
Deputy Prime Minister Jurin Laksanavisit said the export of 80 million used nitrile gloves to the US is being investigated with the huge global demand leading to criminal activity.
Facebook will fuel further unrest, whistleblower says
By Reuters and published by Channel NewsAsia
A whistleblower told the British Parliament that Facebook’s algorithms are designed to promote divisive content which will fuel more unrest worldwide but CEO Mark Zuckerberg said this is deeply illogical.
Palang Pracharath Party has not yet picked future PM candidate: Thammanat
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Whether or not Palang Pracharath Party picks Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to stay on at the helm after the next election is still up in the air, says its secretary-general Thammanat Prompow.
Young man’s throat grazed by dangling cable
A young man in Chiang Rai suffered a long abrasion on his throat after getting entangled in a dangling cable while riding home with wife after both of them got Covid jabs.
Phuket police hunting for robber who made off with 200-300 baht weight gold
Police in Phuket are hunting a robber who made off with 200 to 300 baht weight gold after seriously stabbing a couple in their shophouse last night (Oct. 23).
560,000 doses of Moderna vaccine arriving here by Nov. 5
The first batch of 560,000 doses of Moderna vaccine will be arriving in Thailand by Nov. 5 with altogether 1.9 million doses being shipped here by yearend.
Protest group holds seminar in front of prison
An activist group held a seminar in front of Bangkok Special Prison today (Oct. 23) to reiterate their four demands while a group of songwriters sang songs in front of Klong Prem Central Prison.
Govt urged to give Russell Crowe a plaque or medal
An MP urged Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to give superstar Russell Crowe a medal or a plaque for sharing good photos of Bangkok and Phuket on Twitter.
UN fears ‘mass atrocity crimes’ in Myanmar as troops gather in north
By AFP and published by Channel NewsAsia
The UN warned of even more mass atrocity crimes in Myanmar as tens of thousands of troops and heavy weapons are being moved to the north of the country.
List of 46 countries allowed quarantine-free entry from November 1
The Thai Foreign Ministry this morning (Oct. 22) released the list of 46 countries allowed quarantine-free entry from November 1 onwards as announced by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha last night.
Curfew ended in 17 province from 11 p.m. Oct. 31
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha this morning (Oct. 22) scrapped curfew in 17 provinces but only certain districts and sub-districts in some of them starting 11 p.m. Oct. 31, 2021.
PM increases countries allowed quarantine-free entry from 10 to 46
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said this evening (Oct 21) he is increasing the number of low-risk countries allowed quarantine-free entry starting November 1 from 10 to 46.
Traffic chaos in Samut Prakan after torrential rain
Several roads in Samut Prakan were badly flooded this evening (Oct. 22) after over an hour long relentless rain with the tailback on the Motorway being five kilometres long.
Myanmar junta rearrests more than 100 released in amnesty: Monitoring group
By AFP and published by Channel NewsAsia
Over a hundred Myanmar anti-coup protesters who were freed under an amnesty earlier this week have been rearrested.
Mountain resorts temporarily shut after new Covid cluster emerges
Resorts on Phu Thap Boek mountain were shut till the end of the month after a Covid cluster emerged while nationally there were 9,727 new cases and 73 deaths today (Oct. 21).
Pro-Prayut conspiracy hatched against Palang Pracharath secretary-general
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
There is a new plot to rein in Palang Pracharath Party’s secretary-general Thammanat Prompow to ensure Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha stays on at the helm.
PM thanks Zac Efron for positive portrayal of Thailand
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha thanked Hollywood star Zac Efron for sharing a photo of himself in Phuket and expressing his happiness here on Instagram.
Korat crocodile farm rushing to prevent flooding
A crocodile farm with over a thousand of these reptiles is quickly digging a canal to drain approaching floodwater to prevent these crocs from escaping and threatening residents.
Court endorses MP status for own party-dissolving lawmaker
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Constitutional Court today (Oct. 20) allowed an MP who dissolved his own party and joined the ruling Palang Pracharath Party to keep his status.
Top Lumpini station policemen transferred after restaurant raid
Lumpini police station’s chief, two of his deputies and two other policemen were transferred today (Oct.20) following a raid on a Sukhumvit restaurant on Saturday night.
In a first, US surgeons attach a pig kidney to a human successfully
By Reuters Staff, published by The Straits Times
US surgeons transplanted a genetically altered pig kidney to a human and this advancement could pave the way to help the thousands of people in need of organ transplants every year.
Truck convoys heading for Bangkok to stage diesel price protest
Around a thousand trucks, trailers and buses are staging a protest over rising diesel price with seven convoys participating and one already heading for Bangkok from Ratchaburi province.
Fresh push to dissolve Pheu Thai Party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A Palang Pracharath Party MP is moving to get Pheu Thai Party dissolved on the charge that former premier Thaksin Shinawatra is illegally running the show.
Over 70% of Bangkok residents doubled jabbed
Bangkok reached an important landmark today (Oct. 19) with 70.63% of the city population having received a second dose of Covid-19 vaccination.
Tradition vs credibility: Inside the Asean meet that snubbed Myanmar
By Reuters Staff, published by The Straits Times
Asean ministers were divided on taking a harder stance against Myanmar junta leader Min Aung Hlaing at the tense Friday meeting that finally decided to exclude him from a regional summit later this month.
Police: Don’t reveal 3- digit number on the back of credit, debit cards
With the credit and debit card scam attack now widespread police warned people not to reveal the three-digit security code on the back of these cards when undertaking online transactions
Thaksin closes the door on ex-spouse Potjaman becoming party leader
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former premier Thaksin Shinawatra refused to let his former spouse Khunying Potjaman na Pombejra take the helm of Pheu Thai Party.
Fire at Siriraj Hospital’s Covid ward quickly doused
A fire erupted at Siriraj Hospital’s Covid ward storage area late afternoon (Oct. 18) but this was quickly extinguished and there were no injuries.
Italian police use water cannon to break up health pass protest at port
By Reuters and published by Channel NewsAsia
Italian police dispersed dock workers protesting against mandatory Covid-19 health pass at a key port today (Oct. 18) but they later assembled in front of the government offices.
Prayut ignores villagers’ woes despite popularity-boosting visit: Pheu Thai MP
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A Pheu Thai Party MP slammed Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha for ignoring villagers’ woes during his visit to flood-hit Ubon Ratchathani province.
Money drained out of tens of thousands of bank accounts
Scammers hit tens of thousands of bank accounts today (Oct. 17) and repeatedly drained small sums of money very quickly.
116 Thais and foreigners rounded up in Sukhumvit restaurant raid
Lumpini police arrested 116 Thai and foreign diners at a Sukhumvit restaurant last night (Oct. 16) for breaking Covid control rule.
MEA gives an explanation over Russell Crowe’s photo of cables
After superstar Russell Crowe’s photo of a mass of overhead cables triggered strong online criticism the electricity authority today (Oct. 16) explained they were communication and not electric wires.
Russell Crowe in Bangkok, shares photos and videos on Twitter
With us in Bangkok right now is Hollywood megarstar Russell Crowe and he shared some striking photos and videos he took of the city and Phuket on Twitter.
Teachers, students break through art gallery gate over cancelled exhibition
Some Chiang Mai University teachers and students broke through an art gallery gate after being blocked from holding an annual exhibition there to prevent political interference.
Myanmar junta ‘extremely disappointed’ over Asean summit snub: Official
By AFP, published by Channel NewsAsia
Myanmar’s junta is both peeved and objects to Asean not allowing its strongman Min Aung Hlaing to attend an upcoming summit
Durian sparks ‘gas leak’ emergency in Australia store
By AFP and published by The Straits Times
Durian’s pungent odour prompted a gas leak warning at a store in Canberra with firefighters spending an hour investigating the smell.
Double trouble: Quarantine facility gets badly flooded
A quarantine facility in Chanthaburi got badly flooded three days ago and those placed there are still living with the floodwater.
Thai man files complaint after losing over 3m baht in Chinese business fraud
A Thai businessman who was defrauded by a Chinese company appealed to the embassy for help and also filed a complaint with police.
Malaysia mulls waiving or shortening quarantine for vaccinated foreigners
By Channel NewsAsia
Malaysia is moving to allow fully vaccinated foreigners from some countries to enter with shorter or no mandatory quarantine amid a proposal to reopen Langkawi first.
CCSA: Curfew relaxed to 11 p.m.- 3 a.m.
The Covid administration committee today (Oct. 14) reduced curfew to 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. while saying lockdown measures could be lifted on Nov. 1.
Ex-red shirt leader freed from jail, vows to resume anti-Prayut moves
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Upon being freed from jail today (Oct. 14) former red shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan vowed to continue piling pressure on Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to step down.
Big traffic snarls in Bangkok after evening downpour
Several Bangkok roads were flooded during the evening rush hour leading to bad traffic jams with motorists told to avoid the Rama 9 – Din Daeng route.
Russian woman whose son got burned after falling into hot spring gets help
A Russian woman whose son got seriously burned after falling into a hot spring in Pai is now getting help after difficulties in filing a police complaint.
It is time Baby Boomers like Prayut stopped running the country: Thaksin
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former premier Thaksin Shinawatra advised Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to step down and give the younger generation a chance to run the country.
TAT moves to increase low-risk countries from 10 to 20
The tourism authority is moving to increase the number of low-risk countries whose tourists will gain quarantine-free entry starting Nov. 1 from 10 to 20.
Covid tally rises in Phang Nga with first case emerging on Koh Panyee
Phang Nga province, just north of Phuket, saw its daily Covid count rise to 94 while the small Panyee island got its first case.
Russia denies claims it stole Covid vaccine blueprint from UK
By Holly Ellyatt, CNBC
Russia strongly denied accusations in the British press that it stole the “blueprint” for the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and used it to create its own Sputnik V shot.
Prayut’s tourism move is today’s top Twitter trend
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s move to allow quarantine-free entry for tourists from 10 countries on Nov 1 turned into the top Twitter trend in Thailand with several people criticising this step.
Commentary: Running in the family
By Out-Crowd
Pheu Thai Party with former premier Thaksin Shinawatra pulling the strings from Dubai hasn’t yet chosen its candidate for premiership after the next election, with the two top runners being within the family.
Two renegade MPs ousted from Pheu Thai Party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Pheu Thai Party voted to expel two MPs today (Oct. 12) and they now have 30 days to join another party or else lose their MP status.
Move Forward Party granted most of taxpayers’ cash donation
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Move Forward Party raked in the most taxpayers’ cash donation last year beating the ruling Democrat and Palang Pracharath parties.
Teengers held in Squid Game copycat attack on Chiang Mai resident
Two teenage boys were arrested in Chiang Mai for copying Netflik’s Squid Game series in attacking a resident there at night with four others being investigated.
5- and 13-year-old among 60 Covid deaths today
Two children, one 5 and the other 13 years old, were among 60 Covid deaths today (Oct. 11) while daily case count reached 10,035.
Prawit shrugs off protests over naming ex-deputy Democrat leader as his adviser
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Palang Pracharath Party has been rocked with protests over naming a former Democrat Party leader as an adviser to its leader Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan but he is confident of heading off trouble.
Thailand allowing quarantine-free entry for tourists from 10 countries on Nov 1
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said tonight (Oct. 11) that from November 1 onwards tourists from 10 low-risk countries would be allowed to enter Thailand without quarantine provided they are fully vaccinated and pass a RT-PCR test.
35kg heroin seized in Chiang Mai, drug changed from blocks to powder
Chiang Mai police seized 35 kilogrammes of heroin and arrested 3 suspects with the traffickers having changed the drug from blocks to powder packed in plastic bags.
India, China army talks to defuse border tensions fail
By AP and published by Channel NewsAsia
Army talks between India and China have collapsed and both countries will keep troops in forward areas for a second freezing winter as 17-month standoff continues.
Expert warns 3 storms may worsen flooding next week
A Rangsit University professor warned that three storms will dump up to 200 mm of rain next week worsening floods in many provinces but the embanked area of Bangkok should remain unaffected.
220 teenagers arrested in drug party raid
A raid on a drug party in Saraburi province at 2.30 in the morning (Oct. 10) led to the arrest of 220 teenagers and seizure of some drugs.
Thailand’s vaccine regulatory system reaches WHO’s second-highest level
Thailand’s vaccine regulatory body has moved up to the second-highest WHO level amid 10,817 new coronavirus cases and 84 deaths today (Oct.10)
Anti-Prayut feminist group, allies stage protest at Democracy Monument
A feminist group and their allies held a protest at the Democracy Monument today (Oct. 9) after a “car mob” procession from Silom road.
Prayut summons anti-graft agency head over charges against his brother
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha called the anti-graft agency head for talks amid wealth concealment charges against his own brother.
Backhoe operator misses out on Covid jabs after identity theft
A backhoe operator in Pathum Thani province lost his chance to get Covid jabs after another person stole his identity and took the shots.
Power bank bursts into flames after being left in vehicle
Police issued a warning after a power bank left in a pick-up truck exploded in Phetchaburi province plus tips on finding a good power bank and using it safely.
3 Covid clusters emerge in Chiang Mai as daily tally reaches 11,140 cases
Three Covid clusters cropped up in Chiang Mai today (Oct. 8) amid a daily tally of 11,140 cases and 116 deaths.
Teen protesters disappear amid heavy control of Din Daeng area
The Thalu Gas teen protesters stayed away from Din Daeng hotspot tonight (Oct. 8) after police mounted extra heavy control of the area.
PM holds talks with police chief as cop shot in head improves
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha held unscheduled talks with a top police team this morning (Oct. 8) while the policeman shot in the head at Din Daeng is now conscious.
Covid-hit Chiang Mai hotel cuts room rate to 100 baht a night
A hotel in Chiang Mai badly hit by the Covid-19 pandemic slashed room rates to just 100 baht a night for a three-day period and got a big response.
Anti-Prayut protesters kept at bay in Nakhon Si Thammarat
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A planned demonstration against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha in Nakhon Si Thammarat province today (Oct. 7) fizzled out under tough action by police.
6 teens being quizzed in shooting of policeman at Din Daeng
Six teenagers are being interrogated after a policeman was shot in the temple at Din Daeng flats last night (Oct. 6) with another protest expected to take place there tonight.
Student told to dye her hair black to a Pfizer jab
A Thai student was told by her teachers to dye her golden blond hair black or else she would not get a Pfizer jab with that attracting a lot of comments from netizens.
1976 university massacre remembered, this year’s award goes to Penguin
The October 6, 1976 massacre at Thammasat University was commemorated today with this year’s Jarupong Thongsin Award going to protest leader Mr. Parit Chivarak, or Penguin.
Govt leaders visiting flooded zones ‘not a sign of House dissolution’
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The quick succession of visits to flooded provinces by government leaders is not an indication of an imminent House dissolution, a Palang Pracharath MP said.
Move Forward MP resigns, launching own party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Gearing up to launch his own party is Mr Win Suthirachai who today (Oct. 6) resigned as MP of the Move Forward Party in order to do so.
Samui Plus Sandbox generates over 38m baht since July 15 launch
Since its launch on July 15 this year the Samui Plus Sandbox project has attracted 1,018 tourists and brought in over 38 million baht in revenue.
UN Human Rights Office urges Thailand to promptly enact key legislation
The UN Human Rights Office for South-East Asia called on Thailand to promptly enact a draft law on Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance and ensure it meets international standards.
Prayut bows to pressure from Democrat Party over Agriculture & Cooperatives Ministry
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha caved in to pressure from the Democrat Party and returned four Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry agencies to Deputy Prime Minister/Democrat Party leader Jurin Laksanavisit.
Thai man punched to death ‘had 290,000 baht with him the day he died’
The ex-wife of a Thai man punched to death by a Swiss man for allegedly trying to rob him said he did not need money as he had 290,000 baht with him from sale of a land plot.
Almost entire police station in Sisaket infected
Although the Covid tally dropped to 9,869 cases and 92 deaths today (Oct. 5), a big cluster emerged with almost the entire police station at Sisaket getting infected.
Din Daeng protesters attack Lumpini police patrol car amid more rallies
Three of four Din Daeng protesters who lobbed a bomb-like device at a Lumpini police patrol car were arrested amid warning of possible chaos as more protests are taking place today (Oct. 4).
Covid clusters still emerging despite daily tally dropping
Despite the daily Covid count dropping to 9,930 cases and 97 deaths today (Oct. 4) clusters are still emerging at factories in 3 provinces and workers camps in Bangkok.
Thailand joins Asian nations in rush to buy Merck’s Covid-19 pill
By Reuters Staff, published by Channel NewsAsia
Thailand is among Asian nations rushing to order an experimental Covid-19 treatment pill produced by US drugmaker Merck & Co.
Whirlwind rips through Samut Prakan destroying houses
A strong whirlwind rolled through a Samut Prakan housing estate this afternoon (Oct. 4) destroyed many homes.
Rally continues at October 14 Memorial despite rain
An anti-Prayut demonstration organised by the Ramkhamhaeng for Democracy Network continued at the October 14 Memorial today (Oct. 3) despite heavy rain.
Swiss man faces charges after punching robber to death
A Swiss man living in Udon Thani province punched an armed Thai robber to death in his kitchen last night (Oct. 2) and has surrendered to police.
59.02% vaccinated across Thailand, Bangkok’s 1st jab total is 100.3%
Latest stats show that 54,581,395 Covid shots have been administered in Thailand with 59.02% of the population jabbed and Bangkok’s first jab total is 100.3%.
Bomb attack at Kabul mosque kills ‘number of civilians’, says Taliban
By France 24 with AFP and AP
An explosion outside a mosque in Kabul killed some civilians with questions now raised whether Taliban can maintain security in Afghanistan amid threats from the IS-K group.
American held in rape, injury of masseuse
An American man was arrested at a Sukhumvit condominium this morning (Oct. 2) on the charges of raping and injuring a masseuse in Khon Kaen earlier this week.
Hearsay of ex-WTO head being named deputy PM dismissed
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A rumour circulating that former WTO head Supachai Panitchpakdi will be named deputy premier in charge of economic affairs was dismissed by the Democrat Party today (Oct. 2).
Flooded Din Daeng tunnel closed to traffic
Parts of Bangkok got flooded after citywide rainfall this afternoon (Oct. 2) with Din Daeng tunnel worst hit and closed to traffic.
Phuket people complain tourism revenue mostly going to big hotels
While the Phuket sandbox scheme is generating some revenue the island’s residents said most of it is going to big hotels as tourists generally stay within their compound.
Bangkok Governor issues flood alert in 7 districts
Eleven communities in seven Bangkok districts are facing flooding as a result of key dams discharging more water thus raising the Chao Phraya river level.
Covid count again above 11,000 with Bangkok logging 1,423 cases
Thailand’s daily Covid tally reached 11,754 cases and 123 deaths this morning (Oct. 1) with Bangkok’s total being 1,423 cases followed by Samut Prakan with 861.
Democrat Party against Prawit taking charge of Agriculture Ministry agencies
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Democrat Party is opposing Deputy Premier Prawit Wongsuwan taking charge of some Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry agencies formerly helmed by his protégé.
Hunt for foreigner after masseuse gets in seriously injured in attack
Khon Kaen police are hunting for a foreign man after a masseuse got seriously injured at the Thai massage parlour she works in.
11 Bangkok communities get flood warning
Bangkok administrators today (Sept. 30) alerted 11 communities in nine districts along Chao Phaya river to prepare for flooding.
Prayut avoids protesters during visit to flood-hit Nonthaburi
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s boat zoomed away from flood-hit Nonthaburi pier today (Sept. 30) to avoid protesters who had gathered there.
Cash-strapped Krabi halts quarantine at local hotels
Krabi announced today (Sept. 30) that it has run out of budget to quarantine people at local hotels and is now scrambling to set up waiting centres.
Govt inks deal to buy 60m AstraZeneca doses for third booster jabs next year
A contract to buy 60 million AstraZeneca doses for third booster jabs next year was signed yesterday (Sept. 29) while today’s tally is 11,646 cases and 107 deaths.
Brand-new, pro-Prayut party aiming to recruit MPs from Prawit’s camp
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A move is being made to set up a new party to back Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha with a key player wooing 13 southern MPs to defect from Palang Pracharath Party and join the new one.
Powered paraglider pilots deliver food to flood victims stranded on an island
A team of powered paraglider pilots dropped off food to some flood victims stranded on a flood-created island in Sukhothai province today (Sept. 29). * See pictures
2m doses of Pfizer vaccine arrive amid rush to vaccinate 12-18 year-olds
Two million doses of Pfizer vaccine out of 30 million Thailand ordered arrived this morning (Sept. 29) with a one-third going to 12-18 year-olds.
Almost 200 illegal migrant workers crossed over in one day
Thai officials yesterday (Sept. 28) caught 198 illegal migrant workers who had sneaked across the border from Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia.
Govt leaders, MPs told to stop showing their faces in flood-hit areas
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A former election commissioner today (Sept. 28) told government leaders and lawmakers to stop making short visits to flooded areas as doing so will not resolve problems.
Flooding this year ‘not as severe as in 2011’
The Royal Irrigation Department insists the flooding this year is not as severe as during the great flood in 2011 that had killed over 800 people.