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National

MP Questions TH-AI Passport Project Over Transparency Concerns

An MP raised concerns over cost transparency in Thailand's TH-AI Passport project, alleging a company undervalued a display component at 900,000 baht when it should cost 9 million baht. The Digital Economy and Society Minister failed to att

MP Questions TH-AI Passport Project Over Transparency Concerns
4h ago Khaosod

On July 16, 2025, at Parliament, Ratchanok Srinok, a Pheu Thai list MP and chair of the House committee on budget oversight, raised new concerns about the TH-AI Passport project during a committee meeting. The committee had expected the project to be registered on July 15 but found it had not been, prompting questions about contract amendments and cost calculations. Srinok pointed out that company representatives had misrepresented the true value of key components: while claiming a display unit cost only 900,000 baht, actual business calculations suggest the component should be valued at 9 million baht, not 900,000 baht. The Digital Economy and Society Minister (DE) was invited to clarify but sent word he was abroad, marking the third time the committee has not received cooperation from the minister. Despite the delayed registration, the platform has already been made available to tech influencers and interested parties. Srinok stressed that while the project's features may seem reasonable and providing free AI to citizens has merit, the committee is concerned about locked-in specifications and the fact that the company executed the project before a proper terms of reference existed. The committee is also investigating irregularities in a separate national digital learning platform (NDLP) project, which employed nearly 500 consultants but produced only about 5,000 pieces of content. When asked about the government's stance, Srinok said the committee's ultimate goal is to cancel the project, but realistically hopes to maximize its value. She questioned whether the delayed registration reflects poor initial planning or intentional obfuscation, asking whether the project would simply proceed without scrutiny if not for media attention.

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Police

Ex-Phuket Official Sues Landowner Over Extortion Allegations

A former Phuket Provincial Administrator sued a landowner for defamation after being accused of extorting 1 million baht for document alterations, which he denies. The ex-official claims he was unfairly dismissed from civil service and ques

Ex-Phuket Official Sues Landowner Over Extortion Allegations
4h ago Khaosod

On July 16, 2026, at the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road, former Phuket Provincial Administrator Roongruang Thimabutr filed a defamation lawsuit against a landowner in Phuket who accused him of extorting 1 million baht in exchange for altering land ownership documents. Roongruang stated that he is suing for defamation and filing false charges intended to incriminate him, denying that he ever demanded money for document alterations. He claimed that a 1-million-baht transfer to an associate's account was unrelated to his actions, and that the landowner then filed criminal charges against him afterward.

Roongruang insisted he would never dare to extort money from a wealthy landowner and emphasized there is no financial connection to him whatsoever. He questioned why his case was handled with unusual speed and apparent double standards, leading to his immediate removal from civil service, while other fraud cases involving billions remain unresolved. He also addressed allegations filed by his former supervisor on June 24, stating he cannot discuss details while proceedings are ongoing, but he firmly denies ever seeking benefits from three individuals involved in a local investigation.

Roongruang explained that he returned to work in Phuket on June 24, when the victim filed a complaint. On June 26, the court issued an arrest warrant and he was detained. The following day, his supervisor ordered his dismissal from the civil service without investigating the facts or verifying whether the allegations were true. His legal team has separately filed a complaint against his supervisor with the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Court for the improper dismissal order.

Narintr Somneuk, Roongruang's attorney, disclosed that today's lawsuit against the Phuket landowner alleges he filed false charges accusing Roongruang of demanding 1 million baht. The defense has evidence refuting the claim. The attorney also requested that the court summon the Phuket Provincial Committee chairman who issued the land inspection order to testify. The Criminal Court accepted the case under black case number 2024/2569 and scheduled a hearing on October 26, 2026.

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Police

Construction Firm Files Complaint Over 57 Million Baht Debt

A construction contractor filed a complaint with the Anti-Corruption Division seeking recovery of 57 million baht lent to a company in the Srinakarin area in 2024, with only 3 million baht repaid before the defendants disappeared.

Construction Firm Files Complaint Over 57 Million Baht Debt
4h ago Khaosod

On July 16, 2025, Atthapol Songpum, authorized representative of construction contractor Jennarong Rueangsuwan, filed a complaint with the Anti-Corruption Division against a prominent company in the Srinakarin area and Ms. Maitri, an authorized director, over a loan of approximately 57 million baht intended for equipment purchases and construction of an international school. The incident occurred between October and November 2024.

According to Atthapol, Ms. Maitri contacted Jennarong requesting to borrow the funds for investment in equipment and construction of the international school in the Srinakarin area, totaling around 57 million baht. When the loan was demanded back, the defendants evaded the request and refused to repay, prompting the parties to discuss a construction contract arrangement. Over six months, only 500,000 baht was repaid, for a total of 3 million baht, after which the defendants disappeared.

"We previously filed complaints with local investigators and submitted a complaint to the Rights and Liberties Protection Center under the Ministry of Justice, but the defendants failed to appear at scheduled meetings," Atthapol stated. "We are now appealing to the Anti-Corruption Division to seek justice and pursue this matter through legal channels to the fullest extent."

The Anti-Corruption Division announced it will summon the defendants for investigation to establish facts and proceed with legal proceedings accordingly.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Rubber Factory Emissions Sicken Community for 20 Years

A rubber processing plant in Buriram has poisoned a community for two decades with toxic wastewater, foul odors, and noise, causing widespread respiratory illness despite a 2566 court order demanding action. Residents and their attorney are

Rubber Factory Emissions Sicken Community for 20 Years
4h ago Khaosod

Residents and attorney Chaiyuth Arayavongse of Buriram's Bung Charoeng Subdistrict have assembled to demand that provincial industrial and natural resources authorities investigate a large rubber processing plant spanning over 76 rai situated in the heart of their community. Villagers report the factory discharges wastewater into natural water sources, operates noisy machinery, and emits foul-smelling odors day and night, causing respiratory and breathing illnesses particularly among children and the elderly. The community has suffered for 20 years; despite filing complaints and even winning a 2566 Supreme Administrative Court order requiring local government and industrial authorities to jointly resolve the issue, no meaningful action has been taken. The factory, established in 2549, continues to expand production facilities while rumors circulate that it is foreign-owned. Chaiyuth notes the factory has never implemented improvements despite decades of complaints, and he questions why odor standards were raised to 2,500 units outside industrial zones in 2562—far above the 300-unit threshold that already affected the entire subdistrict. He appeals to the newly reappointed Industry Minister Warawut Silpaakaan to intervene. Villager Uma Pengprakone, 47, describes how her family has endured years of foul-smelling emissions, nose irritation, and breathing difficulties, with her 90-year-old mother, son, and herself all afflicted with respiratory symptoms.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

AWC Secures 40.5 Billion Baht Sustainable Loan for Yaowarat Development

AWC secured a 40.5 billion baht sustainability-linked loan from Siam Commercial Bank, with 10.5 billion baht designated for the Yaowarat mixed-use development in Bangkok that will feature a Kung Fu Panda experience and cultural heritage att

AWC Secures 40.5 Billion Baht Sustainable Loan for Yaowarat Development
4h ago Khaosod

AWC has signed a sustainability-linked loan agreement with Siam Commercial Bank for 40.5 billion baht to support development of the "Wang Nakhon Kasem Yaowarat" project, a landmark mixed-use development designed to transform Bangkok's historic Thai-Chinese quarter into a world-class tourism destination. Of this amount, 10.5 billion baht will fund the Yaowarat project, which will feature a Kung Fu Panda experience from Universal Destinations & Experiences alongside cultural heritage attractions that blend Thai-Chinese traditions with international-standard experiences. AWC Chief Executive Officer Vallabha Traisorus stated the funding represents a pivotal step in the company's Sustainable Growth-Led Strategy, emphasizing how the development will create economic opportunities for local communities, preserve cultural identity, and position Thailand as a leading global tourism destination. Siam Commercial Bank Chief Executive Sarachai Rattanaphon added that the long-standing partnership between the bank and AWC demonstrates mutual confidence and reflects their continued commitment to meaningful national projects, culminating in this major collaboration.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Exam Scam Brokers Demand Extra Bribes to Remove Names

Exam brokers are demanding additional bribes of 300,000–500,000 baht from over 15,000 local government employees who previously paid to pass their exams, claiming they can remove names from disqualification lists before final approval. The

Exam Scam Brokers Demand Extra Bribes to Remove Names
5h ago Khaosod

A source from the former central committee overseeing local government employee exams has revealed an ongoing scheme in which brokers are collecting additional payments of 300,000–500,000 baht from people who previously paid 500,000–700,000 baht to buy their exam positions. The brokers claim they can use their connections with committee members to remove the names of flagged candidates from disqualification lists before final approvals, targeting over 15,000 people already placed in local government positions nationwide who now face review and potential lifetime bans from civil service.

Those who paid for their positions are now fearful of investigation and potential criminal charges if anomalies are found in their exam papers. The brokers claim to have already coordinated with committee members who have agreed to help remove names from lists of candidates with suspicious answer sheets. Some people have been duped into paying the additional bribes, though the process remains in the early stages and names have not yet been formally submitted to the committee. Related coverage notes that Deputy Prime Minister Anutin is awaiting a central committee decision on dismissals for those involved in the exam fraud scheme.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Shooting Association Disputes Sniper's Asian Games Selection Rejection

Thailand's Shooting Association defended its rejection of 22-year-old shooter Isaranudom Boonparchaiwitpach from the Asian Games team, presenting evidence he finished third in selection trials when only the top two qualify.

Shooting Association Disputes Sniper's Asian Games Selection Rejection
5h ago Khaosod

The Thai Shooting Association has presented score sheet evidence to counter claims from the mother of national shooter Isaranudom Boonparchaiwitpach, age 22, who finished third in selection trials and was denied entry to the Asian Games despite meeting performance standards. The association believes there is a deliberate discrediting process with unknown parties orchestrating the campaign. Captain's mother, Pornpaktr Boonparchaiwitpach, filed a complaint with Sports Minister Surasak Phandcharoenworakul, alleging the shooting association deliberately obstructed her son's participation in the Asian Games despite his qualifying performance. Sakol Wanpong, chairman of the Thai Shooting Association, recently clarified the matter, stating he is unfazed because the entire situation is untrue. He recounted how Isaranudom participated in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics at age 16 and was eliminated in the first round. Afterward, the athlete's mother claimed the association failed to provide support and ammunition for training, though the association counters that the athlete refused to train at the association facility and instead trained alone in Nakhon Ratchasima province. Wanpong explained that the association held three selection competitions over three months, with the final two rounds in March and April. Competition rules require only the top two finishers in each category to compete at the Asian Games. The association possesses clear evidence that Isaranudom finished third in the two selection rounds and did not qualify. When the athlete's mother learned her son placed third, she requested the association send him anyway, but the association firmly declined, citing rules that allow only first and second place finishers. Since becoming chairman, Wanpong stated he has prohibited ammunition trading, which violates law, and maintains administrative distance from athletes and parents, refusing to show favoritism or cause harm. He emphasized that parents should not interfere in competitions and training—these are coaching responsibilities. He rejected claims that selected athletes are "his people," noting such allegations are untrue. Wanpong concluded that score reports generated from equipment linked to the internationally recognized Sius program cannot be altered, making the complaint to the minister a clear discrediting process orchestrated by outside parties. He offered full information to the minister if needed.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

Man Attacked by 10-Strong Gang, Firebombed and Stabbed

A 24-year-old man was firebombed and stabbed by approximately 10 assailants on motorcycles in Nonthaburi on July 16; he fled to a convenience store and survived with injuries to his neck and shoulder.

Man Attacked by 10-Strong Gang, Firebombed and Stabbed
5h ago Khaosod

Nonthaburi City Police received a report on July 16 of a gang assault involving youths throwing firebombs on Phibulsongkram Road near Rama V Bridge, Ban Yai Subdistrict, Muang District, Nonthaburi Province. Officers found the victim's motorcycle overturned on the roadside, with scorch marks and debris from firebombs and energy drink bottles scattered at the scene.

The injured man, Pongsakorn, 24, fled to a convenience store after the attack and was found with stab wounds to the right neck and left shoulder. Rescue workers provided first aid before transferring him to Phra Nang Klao Hospital, where doctors confirmed his injuries are no longer life-threatening. A sharp knife was recovered from the convenience store and seized as evidence.

Pongsakorn stated that approximately 10 assailants arrived on motorcycles and threw firebombs at him before chasing him down. His 16-year-old brother, A (alias), said both were returning from shopping when they encountered the gang descending from Rama V Bridge from Bang Sri Muang side. The attackers, identified as Bang Sri Muang youths, pulled knives and chased them. Although they fled into the convenience store, the attackers followed and stabbed his brother, then stole his motorcycle.

CCTV footage from 1:10 a.m. showed six motorcycles carrying approximately 10 perpetrators approaching the victim's single motorcycle carrying two people near the municipal fresh market. After exchanging insults, the gang threw firebombs and pursued the victim, who fled to the convenience store for help. Investigators are gathering statements from the victim at the hospital and pursuing charges against the gang.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Seeks EU Business Support to Seal FTA Deal by Year-End

Thailand is pushing European business leaders to help finalize a free trade agreement by year-end, with negotiations stalled on agriculture and raw materials. Prime Minister Anutin also discussed Thailand's bid for OECD membership, which he

Thailand Seeks EU Business Support to Seal FTA Deal by Year-End
5h ago Khaosod

On July 16, 2025, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul welcomed senior executives and representatives of the EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC), the European Association for Business and Commerce (EABC), and European business delegations to Government House to discuss trade, investment, and economic cooperation. The Prime Minister stated that European business leaders have confirmed their intention to expand investments in Thailand and praised the government's responsiveness to the business sector following multiple international meetings. Thailand reaffirmed its readiness in investment, tourism, and manufacturing and requested European business support in finalizing the Thailand-EU FTA negotiations, targeting completion by the end of 2025. The Prime Minister acknowledged delays in final-stage talks due to differing positions between both sides, particularly on raw materials and agriculture, which require careful resolution to benefit all parties. A successful FTA would dramatically increase bilateral trade value and allow Thai exporters to access European markets without tariff barriers. When asked about obstacles, the Prime Minister identified raw materials and agriculture as key issues requiring balanced solutions. Regarding OECD membership, he reported that this topic is discussed at every international forum and that several world leaders have confirmed support for Thailand's membership bid. The Prime Minister emphasized that OECD membership would create new opportunities for Thailand in trade, investment, and raising national standards, complementing FTA negotiations, investment attraction, and the Thailand Fast Pass program. When asked if he was confident Thailand could achieve OECD membership by 2026, he said the government would proceed with full effort while acknowledging that final decisions rest with the OECD committee, not the Thai government, and Thailand would prepare comprehensive documentation to meet all criteria.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

PM Says Can't Stop All Exam Fraud; Awaits Central Committee Decision

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul acknowledged the government cannot prevent all exam fraud but said authorities are investigating and prosecuting offenders as quickly as possible following arrests on July 15.

PM Says Can't Stop All Exam Fraud; Awaits Central Committee Decision
5h ago Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated on July 16 at Government House that local government exam fraud and Thailand's OECD membership bid are separate matters. OECD membership requires good governance and audit principles, he said, adding that while complete prevention of cheating is impossible, the government has systems to investigate, arrest, and prosecute offenders as quickly as possible. Anutin noted that on July 15, people both inside and outside involved in the fraud were arrested and prosecuted, with investigations continuing. Multiple trusted agencies—including the National Anti-Corruption Commission, National Police, and Anti-Money Laundering Office, as well as the Interior Ministry itself—are conducting full investigations. When asked whether the Central Civil Service Commission's decision was unlikely to change, Anutin said the details should be explained by those responsible, and the commission will act accordingly. He emphasized that all actions must follow the law.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Police

Driver Discovers Dead Woman in Back Seat

A 61-year-old butcher in Samut Prakan discovered an unidentified woman's body in his unlocked car's back seat on July 16, with no signs of foul play and police investigating how she gained entry to the vehicle.

5h ago The Thaiger Crime

Driver finds woman’s body in car after unknowing journeyLegacyA Thai driver discovered the body of an unidentified woman in the back seat of his car after arriving at his destination in Samut Prakan in the early hours of today, July 16. The driver, 61 year old Chanasin, contacted officers from Samrong Tai Police Station after finding the body in his black Nissan sedan, which was parked at the entrance to Chao Pho Thap Samrong Shrine on Thang Rotfai Sai Kao Road in Phra Pradaeng district. Police, forensic officers and rescuers from the Por Teck Tung Foundation attended the scene. They found the body of a woman believed to be between 60 and 70 years old seated in the back seat of the vehicle. Investigators said the woman was leaning against the back seat and was not carrying any identification documents. An initial examination found no visible injuries or signs of assault, and officers believe she had been dead for several hours. Photo via DailyNews According to police, Chanasin appeared shocked while giving his statement. He told investigators he had never met the woman and denied any involvement in her death. Chanasin said he runs a butcher’s stall at Samrong Market. After closing his business the previous afternoon, he drove home to his condominium in Soi Wat Dan and parked the car as usual. He explained that he was unable to lock the vehicle because its locking system was broken. The following morning, he drove to the market to prepare for work and noticed nothing unusual during the journey. As he reached for a bag on the front passenger seat shortly before arriving, he said he felt something touch his back. Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวสารเมืองปราการ When he turned around, he saw what appeared to be a human foot. After switching on the interior light, he discovered the woman’s body in the rear seat. He told police he immediately got out of the vehicle and contacted officers. Chanasin told investigators he believes the woman may have entered the unlocked car while it was parked, possibly to shelter from the weather or rest. He suggested she may have died from an underlying medical condition. Officers transferred the body to the Central Institute of Forensic Science for an autopsy. Police also collected evidence, including latent fingerprints, as part of efforts to identify the woman and determine the circumstances surrounding her death. Photo via DailyNews The story Driver finds woman’s body in car after unknowing journey as seen on Thaiger News.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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