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National

Natural Resources Ministry Permanent Secretary Accelerates System and Personnel Review, Urges Anti-Corruption Committee to Pinpoint Vulnerabilities and Close Loopholes

Thailand's Natural Resources Ministry is accelerating an anti-corruption review after a private sector committee identified vulnerabilities across 10 agencies, with the permanent secretary calling for specific data on problematic units rath

1h ago Khaosod

On May 20, 2025, Raveevan Phuridet, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), discussed a meeting held the previous day where a three-institution private sector anti-corruption committee presented findings from a survey of 10 agencies allegedly involved in bribery. Raveevan emphasized that the ministry takes corruption seriously and has been conducting meetings with executives, deputy secretaries, inspectors-general, and all department directors. She stressed that the government has consistently prioritized anti-corruption efforts through civil service reforms, establishment of independent organizations, enhanced transparency, and streamlined approval processes.

When asked about the Pollution Control Department's case, Raveevan noted that the ministry had invited the anti-corruption committee to participate in the May 19 meeting, though the committee did not send a representative. She compared the ministry to a factory with multiple departments and said that without specific details about which parts need fixing—whether the central policy unit, the Pollution Control Department, waste management, or wastewater divisions—it would take much longer to address problems. She emphasized the ministry wants concrete data and financial figures precise to individual units, not information intended to assign blame.

Raveevan stated there is no set timeline for the review, as yesterday's meeting marked the beginning. The ministry operates anti-corruption centers and will establish a joint working committee with the anti-corruption committee. She also noted that survey responses covered 26 agencies and emphasized the importance of understanding the specific functions of each unit before making assessments. The Secretary-General's office will serve as the central hub for complaints, coordinating with other complaint channels and ensuring fair treatment of officials during investigations. Raveevan concluded by affirming that external input, including from social media, is valuable and receives serious consideration.

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Police

Car Bursts into Flames After Striking Wild Elephant; 1 Dead

A Toyota Corolla collided with a wild elephant on a Kanchanaburi highway and erupted in flames, killing a 70-year-old passenger and injuring two others on Highway 323 near Wang Dong.

1h ago Khaosod

KANCHANABURI — May 20, 2026: A car collided with a wild elephant and burst into flames on a major highway in Kanchanaburi province, killing a 70-year-old man and injuring two others, police said.

On Wednesday, the Deputy Inspector of Investigation at Lat Ya Police Station reported that the accident occurred on Highway 323 heading toward Mueang Kanchanaburi District in Moo 9, Wang Dong Sub-district at approximately 9 p.m. Tuesday. Emergency responders, including medical personnel from Paholpolpayuhasena Hospital, forensics units, Salakpra Wildlife Sanctuary officials, and rescue workers, quickly arrived at the scene.

Despite streetlights in the area, the crash site was poorly illuminated. Authorities found a Toyota Corolla with Kanchanaburi plates on the roadside, its front completely demolished by impact. Fire spread rapidly from the crushed engine compartment through the passenger cabin before firefighters extinguished the blaze.

Chukiat, a 70-year-old passenger, was found dead in the front seat and later transferred to Paholpolpayuhasena Hospital. Two others were injured: driver Charn, 64, and rear-seat passenger Supanutt, 74. The damaged vehicle was towed to Lat Ya Police Station for further investigation.

Investigations revealed the vehicle driven by Charn was traveling from Sai Yok District toward downtown Kanchanaburi when, in complete darkness, one or more wild elephants from Salakpra Wildlife Sanctuary crossed the highway. The elephant had left the protected forest, crossed the Khwae Yai River, and ventured onto the road in search of food. While the vehicle was completely destroyed, the elephant's condition following the crash remains unknown.

Wildlife collisions are common on Highway 3199, which connects Kanchanaburi to Si Sawat, but this marks the first recorded fatal incident of its kind on Highway 323.

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Police

Officials Raid Protected Forest to Destroy Animal Traps Before Endangered Porcupines Face Extinction

Authorities in Nakhon Ratchasima destroyed illegal animal traps across protected forests to prevent endangered porcupines from extinction as heavy rains drive the animals to lower elevations where villagers hunt them.

1h ago Khaosod

Nakhon Ratchasima — Recent heavy rainfall has driven porcupines down from mountain forests to water sources for breeding, prompting many villagers to hunt and sell them for income. However, some residents have been illegally setting traps throughout the forest, threatening rapid population decline and potential extinction. Setting traps within protected forest areas constitutes a serious criminal offense.

Nong Teng and Khao Yai Protected Forests, located in Chaloem Phrakiat District, Nakhon Ratchasima, cover approximately 10,206 rai and are predominantly mixed deciduous forest rich in teak, rosewood, and other valuable timber. The area also hosts Nakhon Ratchasima Airport (Nong Teng). During this rainy season, the district mobilized multiple agencies to destroy the numerous traps.

A Facebook user named Wiwik Suwanna posted about the operation, noting that forestry officers, police, and volunteers destroyed many animal traps in the protected area, though work continues as traps remain in multiple locations. The post appealed to locals not to set traps, as offenders face prosecution under the Wildlife Protection and Preservation Act B.E. 2562 and the National Forest Reserve Act.

District Chief Putt Pongsapeepon coordinated the May 19, 2569 operation, deploying 40 personnel including forest officers, police, and volunteers. He emphasized serious legal consequences for illegal trapping and urged residents accessing the forest to obtain proper permits rather than trespass illegally.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Gold Prices Today May 20, 2026 - Sharp Decline, Act Now - Latest Gold Price Announcement

Gold prices dropped 600 baht on May 20, 2026, with gold bars trading at 69,600 baht per baht for sale and ornamental gold at 70,400 baht per baht, according to the Gold Traders Association.

2h ago Khaosod

Gold prices today, May 20, 2026, have experienced a sharp decline according to the Gold Traders Association. Anyone considering purchasing should act quickly compared to yesterday's closing price. Ornamental gold is now selling at 70,400 baht per baht.

Gold prices as of May 20, 2026 have plummeted 600 baht compared to the final price from May 19. According to the latest announcement from the Gold Traders Association released on their website at 9:02 AM, gold bars are trading domestically with a buyback price of 69,400 baht per baht and a selling price of 69,600 baht per baht under announcement number 1.

For 96.5% ornamental gold, the buyback price is 68,007.76 baht per baht and the selling price is 70,400 baht per baht, while global gold market (Gold Spot) prices stand at 4,485.50 USD per ounce.

Today's Gold Price Summary - May 20, 2026, Announcement 1:

Gold Bars: - Buyback: 69,400 baht per baht - Selling: 69,600 baht per baht

Ornamental Gold: - Buyback: 68,007.76 baht per baht - Selling: 70,400 baht per baht

Gold traders predict that when the market opens tomorrow, gold prices could surge by 1,000-2,000 baht per baht, potentially breaking through 80,000 baht.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Police

Transport Committee Launches Intensive Investigation into Train-Bus Collision, Demands Complete Facts

Thailand's parliament transport committee launched an investigation into a train-bus collision at Bangkok's Asoke-Din Daeng intersection, demanding clarification on train operator positioning, railway safety systems, and conflicting braking

1h ago Khaosod

At 9:25 a.m. on May 20, 2025, at Parliament, Suppanat Minchaiyanan, a Bangkok MP from the People's Party and chairman of the House Transport Committee, announced before the meeting that the committee would discuss the train-bus collision at the Asoke-Din Daeng intersection. He invited all relevant agencies including the directors-general of Rail Transport and Land Transport departments, the Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning Office, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the Road Safety Fund Committee, the Insurance Commission, the Police Bureau, Makkasan police station commander, the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority, and Bangkok's Traffic and Transport Office.

Suppanat stated that the meeting must establish all facts completely. Recent reports indicate that the train operator was on board and positioned at the front of the train, so the committee needs to verify this. He also questioned whether the railway signal system meets adequate safety standards and whether there are systems beyond red flags to warn drivers in advance of obstacles ahead. He emphasized the need to first address these specific issues before expanding to broader traffic and accident problems in the area.

Suppanat noted that conflicting information persists, particularly regarding braking distance estimates ranging from 200 meters to 2 kilometers. He expressed regret that the State Railway Labor Union was not invited to this meeting but indicated they could be summoned later if additional facts emerge. He stated that the union's statement would be presented for review and that the Central Land Transport Department director, attending today's meeting, should provide complete clarification as they are already investigating the matter. If questions remain or new issues arise, another meeting can be scheduled.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

King Eggs Launches Automated Egg Vending Machines in Condos and Communities, Targeting 10,000 Locations Within 3 Years

King Eggs launches automated egg vending machines in Bangkok condos and communities, planning to expand to 10,000 locations within three years using smart technology to connect farms directly with consumers.

1h ago Khaosod

King Eggs has partnered with Advance Vending, a subsidiary of Advance Web Service Public Company Limited, to launch an automated egg vending machine business targeting 10,000 locations within three years. Chanuwat Sivamokkh, chairman of King Eggs (Thailand) Limited, explained that the "Farm to Table" model through "King Eggs Vending Machine" elevates fresh egg sales using smart technology, connecting consumers directly with the farm and reducing supply chain complexity to meet the lifestyle needs of urban consumers seeking freshness, convenience, and ease.

The company has already installed 100 machines across Bangkok condominiums and communities with positive reception, and plans to grow the vending machine business to approximately 10% of company revenue initially. Egg packages are sold in portions of 2 eggs for 17 baht, 6 eggs for 48 baht, and 10 eggs for 79 baht, with a promotional campaign offering eggs at 1 baht per egg to introduce customers to fresh farm eggs.

Sivamokkh noted that the company invested comprehensively in machine infrastructure, backend systems, quality control, stock refill systems, inventory tracking, and consumer experience. The company utilizes IoT technology to manage farm environments and vending machines in real-time, monitoring conditions from farm to transport to machine status and inventory levels. The business also emphasizes GMP and HACCP standards throughout production, sorting, packaging, transport, and distribution, enabling full traceability and assuring consumers of clean, fresh, safe products.

Viroj Siriratanarak, CEO of Advance Web Service Public Company Limited, noted that the partnership with King Eggs exemplifies how technology elevates Thai agriculture for modern consumers. He stated that automated vending machines are evolving beyond simple retail into Smart Retail Platforms that seamlessly connect producers and consumers, offering 24-hour access while meeting consumer demands for quality, cleanliness, freshness, and product transparency.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Nawat Reveals Reason for Appointing Tray Skoqt as MGI All Star Judge After Extended Discussions Without Announcement

Miss Grand International founder Nawat Anuchitr appointed TV personality Tray Skoqt as a judge for the MGI All Star pageant, delaying the announcement to avoid appearing opportunistic following her recent media prominence.

1h ago Khaosod

Nawat Anucha Anuchitr, founder of Miss Grand International, has appointed Tray Skoqt (Siratthat Skoqt) as a judge for the MGI All Star pageant, sparking significant online discussion. Nawat revealed that while they had been in contact for some time, the announcement was delayed due to concerns that appointing her shortly after she became a media sensation might appear opportunistic. However, Nawat confirmed that Tray had been under consideration beforehand, citing her previous collaboration as a judge at the MUT Pathumthani pageant and their encounters at various events, which revealed her compelling perspective and thoughtful approach.

After hearing Tray's interview addressing family issues, Nawat became convinced that she exemplifies a "role model" who uses her influence to authentically reflect social concerns, praising her intellectual maturity beyond expectations. Tray confirmed her ability to fully commit to the judicial responsibilities despite her demanding schedule from the television show "Khong Krasor."

When asked about the public response, Nawat joked that "we exist because of the trend," explaining that the early announcement was necessary because Tray's image appeared in the pageant's presentation. Without prior notification, viewers might have been confused.

Nawat also addressed the family drama surrounding Tray, initially avoiding comment as he viewed it as private. However, after following her television interviews and learning more details, he reconsidered, viewing it no longer as a purely personal matter but as a reflection of societal issues—specifically domestic relationships, power dynamics, and abuse within families.

Nawat emphasized parents' responsibility to show fairness and care toward their children, questioning accusations of ingratitude when parents bear responsibility for the lives they create and protecting them from family harm. He acknowledged that Tray's case may represent just one of many in Thai society, with many victims of family violence and abuse remaining silent. Nawat noted that social media has become a safe space allowing survivors to demand justice more openly.

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Police

Update: Six Victims Identified in Train-Bus Collision

Six victims have been identified from the train-bus collision at Bangkok's Makkasan railway crossing, with families claiming most bodies as of May 20, while two additional bodies await identification.

1h ago Khaosod

As of May 20, 2569, the Forensic Institute at Police Hospital has updated the list of six confirmed victims from the train-bus collision on Route 206 at the Makkasan railway crossing and Asoke-Din Daeng intersection. The identified victims are: 1. Thanatphipat Khiavwijit (Khanun), 22, a third-year student at Silpakorn University studying Information Technology; family has claimed the body. 2. Wipharuk Phaephuri (Nong Rose), 25, a former media studies graduate from Kasetsart University working as a graphic designer and part-time music pub owner in the Bangna area; family has claimed the body. 3. Ueang Manocharm, 66; family has claimed the body. 4. Thiam Puangyot, 57, a housemaid at a company in the Pratunam area; family claimed the body today. 5. Ms. Aye Aye Myint, 36, a Myanmar national; family is in the process of claiming the body today. 6. Theekha Theekhautamakorn (Thane), 33, a private sector employee; family is in the process of claiming the body today. All six victims' families have been issued documentation by Makkasan Police Station to claim the bodies. Two additional bodies remain under identification, with one family currently en route from Chiang Mai to provide DNA samples for comparison. One victim remains unidentified with no family contact yet, and authorities are urging any families with missing persons to contact the Forensic Institute at Police Hospital 24 hours a day.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Government Orders Health Ministry to Monitor and Surveil Ebola Outbreak as WHO Declares International Health Emergency; No Cases Found in Thailand, Public Asked Not to Panic

The Thai government has ordered health authorities to monitor an Ebola outbreak declared a global emergency by the WHO in the Democratic Republic of Congo, though no cases have been reported in Thailand so far.

2h ago Khaosod

May 20, 2025 — Ployprawai Laksameesang Chanthran, Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced that the government has ordered the Ministry of Public Health to monitor and surveil the Ebola outbreak in Ituri Province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, which the World Health Organization has declared a public health emergency of international concern.

According to Ployprawai, Ebola is a severe viral infection spread through blood and bodily fluids of patients, including blood, saliva, vomit, feces, and other secretions, particularly in severely ill patients. Transmission typically occurs within families, among healthcare workers, or among those in close contact with sick patients and deceased bodies. Unlike measles or COVID-19, the virus does not spread easily through the air. No cases have been reported in Thailand to date.

Initial symptoms may resemble common fever, including high fever, fatigue, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting. Some cases may involve abnormal bleeding. Without proper care, the disease can become severe with high mortality rates. However, because infected individuals typically show clear symptoms, close contacts can be tracked, quarantined, and the disease controlled more easily than certain airborne infections.

"The government has ordered the Ministry of Public Health to closely monitor the situation and coordinate with relevant agencies to prepare healthcare facilities, isolation rooms, personal protective equipment, and laboratory capabilities in case suspected cases are identified in the future," Ployprawai stated.

The public is urged to obtain information from health authorities, avoid spreading panic-inducing misinformation, and maintain basic hygiene practices consistently.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Chaiyachonok Denies Newin's Involvement in Constitution Drafting After Padipat's Jab at Chidchob Family

A government minister denied allegations that former deputy speaker Padipat's suggestion to appoint Newin Chidchob's family to draft a new constitution reflected actual government plans, insisting an experienced team is handling the constit

2h ago Khaosod

Chaiyachonok Denies Newin's Involvement in Constitution Drafting After Padipat's Jab at Chidchob Family; Phraradt Asks 'Who is Mor Ong' - At 8:50 AM on May 20, 2569 at Government House, Chaiyachonok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society and secretary-general of Phum Jai Thai Party, responded to comments by Padipat Santiphada, former first deputy speaker of Parliament, who suggested the government's constitution draft proposal was a waste of time and proposed appointing Newin and his family to write it instead. Chaiyachonok said he was uncertain about the intentions behind such comments. He emphasized that the constitutional amendment process is intended to maximize benefits for the nation and guaranteed his lack of involvement in the drafting, noting instead that an experienced team is overseeing the effort. He added he was simply providing his perspective as he wasn't sure how else to respond. Meanwhile, Phraradt Parisnanantkul, Prime Minister's Office Minister and Ang Thong MP from Phum Jai Thai Party, smiled when media asked about the issue before asking in return, 'Who is Mor Ong?' After being informed Padipat was the former first deputy speaker, Phraradt smiled and said 'Oh, I see.'

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

SRT Signs Contracts for Red Line Extension; Pile Driving to Begin This July, Service Opens in 2029

The State Railway of Thailand signed contracts worth 20.777 billion baht for two Red Line extensions totaling 29.34 kilometers, with construction beginning in July 2025 and service launching in 2029.

2h ago Khaosod

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) held a contract signing ceremony on May 20, 2025, at Boromahat Hall, Bangkok Central Station in Chatuchak District, Bangkok, for two Red Line extension projects. The first contract, valued at 6.057 billion baht, covers the dark red line from Rangsit to Thammasat University Rangsit Center (8.84 kilometers) with four stations: Khlong Neung, Bangkok University, Chiang Rak, and Thammasat Rangsit Center. This ground-level line will require approximately 14 acres of land acquisition.

The second contract, valued at 14.72 billion baht, covers the light red line from Siriraj to Talad Noi to Salaya (20.50 kilometers total), consisting of 13.83 kilometers of ground-level track and 6.67 kilometers of elevated track with nine stations, including three new stations: Rama VI Bridge, Bang Kruai-MEA, and Ban Chimpli. No additional land acquisition is needed for this route.

Acting SRT Governor Anant Photinimadang stated the projects follow the national 20-year strategy and M-MAP2 master transportation plan, approved by the Cabinet in 2025. The State Railway plans to sign construction supervision contracts in June and July 2025, with pile driving expected to commence in July 2025. The three-year construction period will conclude with service opening in 2029. The light red line will add approximately 20 minutes to travel time from Bang Sue to Talad Noi, while the dark red line will add 9-10 minutes from Bang Sue to Rangsit. The existing 25 Red Line trains will be sufficient to operate both extensions. An Integrity Pact has also been signed with the Anti-Corruption Organization (Thailand) to ensure transparency throughout the project.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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