Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Chinese Tourist, 44, Dies After Drowning in Phuket Hotel Pool

A 44-year-old Chinese tourist drowned in a Phuket hotel pool on August 17 after his daughter found him unresponsive in the water; he was pronounced dead at the hospital despite resuscitation efforts.

Chinese Tourist, 44, Dies After Drowning in Phuket Hotel Pool
1d ago Khaosod

On August 17, 2025, Phuket's Patong Police Station received notification from Patong Hospital requesting an investigation into a fatal drowning. The victim was identified as 44-year-old Chinese national Mr. Ye, who was staying at a hotel in Phuket with his family from August 16 to 22.

Ye had entered the hotel's swimming pool, which is approximately 2 meters deep. His daughter later found him standing motionless in the water and called for assistance. Foreign swimmers nearby immediately responded and pulled his body to the edge of the pool, where they performed chest compressions and called an ambulance.

Despite medical team efforts, Ye was pronounced dead at 11:30 a.m. at Patong Hospital. Dr. Suksan Kamnuansilp, the attending physician, conducted a preliminary autopsy. The body was transferred to the forensic pathology division at Vachira Hospital in Phuket for official autopsy procedures. Police documented the scene, collected evidence, and notified the Chinese Embassy in Thailand to proceed with appropriate protocols.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

DITTO Posts Strong Q2 Profit as Backlog Hits 4.8 Billion Baht

DITTO's second-quarter profit jumped 13% year-on-year to 189.71 million baht as the tech firm's backlog swelled to 4.8 billion baht through major government contracts in digital transformation and a zoo construction project.

DITTO Posts Strong Q2 Profit as Backlog Hits 4.8 Billion Baht
1d ago Khaosod

DITTO reported second-quarter net profit of 189.71 million baht, up 13 percent year-on-year, with revenue of 1.009 billion baht, a 33 percent increase. For the first six months of 2025, the company posted net profit of 349.08 million baht, up 11 percent, on revenue of 1.928 billion baht, up 28 percent. The company continues to focus on digital transformation, data management, cybersecurity, and engineering solutions to meet growing demand from government and private-sector clients. Despite economic uncertainty, investment in digital infrastructure, data centers, cloud services, and cybersecurity remains on an upward trend. DITTO recently signed a 98 million baht contract with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security to integrate data for social development using Big Data and AI technology, and a 50 million baht document management project with the Department of Land Transport. The company's subsidiary, Siam TC Technology, is issuing 400 million digital tokens at 1.20 baht per token, raising 480 million baht for a mangrove reforestation and carbon credit project spanning 17,531 rai in partnership with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources. DITTO also signed a 4.335 billion baht contract as part of the RSDT Consortium (55 percent stake) to build phase two of a new zoo for the Thai Zoological Park Organisation under royal patronage, though revenue recognition has not yet begun.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
National

Corrections Department Defends Release of Drug Kingpin Lao Tua

An 85-year-old former drug kingpin was legally released after receiving six royal pardons that reduced his life sentence, prompting the Corrections Department to defend the decision and vow to review guidelines for major crimes.

Corrections Department Defends Release of Drug Kingpin Lao Tua
1d ago Khaosod

Following media and social media concerns about the release of Lao Tua Saen Lee, a former major drug offender, the Corrections Department released a detailed statement on August 17, 2026. The 85-year-old was arrested on October 11, 2015, and sentenced to life imprisonment on December 12, 2019, with a 2.5 million baht fine. While incarcerated, he maintained good conduct and received six royal pardons between 2020 and 2026, with his sentence eventually reduced to 8 years, 3 months, and 28 days due to the pardons and age-related reductions for prisoners over 70. After serving 9 years, 10 months, and 8 days from his arrest to his release on August 14, 2026, he was legally discharged. The department stated that the sentencing and release followed all legal procedures and the rule of law applied equally to all inmates. The Corrections Department acknowledged public concerns and said it would review guidelines for managing sentences, especially for capital crimes, life sentences, and cases affecting public security. The department has coordinated with drug enforcement agencies and local administrative authorities to monitor Lao Tua following his release.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Former Champ Rodtang Challenges Somrak for Olympic Contention

Former ONE Muaythai champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon has challenged Olympic gold medalist Somrak Khamsing to compete for Thailand in the 65-kilogram boxing division for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Former Champ Rodtang Challenges Somrak for Olympic Contention
1d ago Khaosod

Rodtang Jitmuangnon, former ONE Muaythai world champion, posted a sparring clip with his brother-in-law Saengatyodtai Lorpayodtain, an ex-WBA Asia champion, and challenged Somrak Khamsing about competing for Thailand in the 65-kilogram international boxing division. In his post, Rodtang asked whether the two of them could compete for the nation.

Earlier, ONE partnered with the Thai Amateur Muaythai Association and the Thai Olympic Committee, under Royal Patronage, to announce support for former ONE Muaythai Bantamweight World Champion Nabil Anane as Thailand's representative for amateur boxing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Rodtang also sent a sparring clip to Somrak Khamsing, the 1996 Olympic gold medalist, asking if he was ready to compete. Somrak immediately responded by asking which weight division—55, 60, or 65 kilograms—and Rodtang answered: 65 kilograms.

Somrak Khamsing, who won Olympic gold in amateur boxing at the 1996 Atlanta Games, currently serves as an advisor to the Thai Amateur Muaythai Association.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Foreign Investment In Thailand Surges 37% To 219 Billion Baht

Foreign direct investment in Thailand surged 37% in the first seven months of 2025, reaching 219.2 billion baht, with Chinese, American, and Singaporean investors leading approvals of 736 new foreign businesses.

Foreign Investment In Thailand Surges 37% To 219 Billion Baht
1d ago Khaosod

Poonpong Nainapragan, director-general of the Department of Business Development under the Commerce Ministry, disclosed details on foreign business investment approvals in Thailand under the Foreign Business Operations Act of 1999. In July 2025 alone, 96 foreign businesses were approved to operate with a combined investment of 31.594 billion baht, predominantly from investors in China, Singapore, and the United States.

For the seven-month period from January to July 2025, Thailand approved 736 foreign business applications, a 26% increase year-on-year, with total investment reaching 219.208 billion baht, up 37% compared to the same period in 2024.

The top five source countries in the first seven months of 2025 were: China with 133 businesses accounting for 18% of foreign investment at 38.603 billion baht; the United States with 121 businesses at 16% and 6.226 billion baht; Singapore with 97 businesses at 13% and 61.112 billion baht; Japan with 94 businesses at 13% and 45.085 billion baht; and Hong Kong with 72 businesses at 10% and 14.077 billion baht. Other countries accounted for 219 businesses at 30% with 54.105 billion baht in investment.

Investment in the Eastern Economic Corridor zone totaled 220 projects, or 30% of all foreign investment in Thailand, a 25% increase year-on-year, valued at 85.615 billion baht or 39% of all foreign investment. Investors included 80 Chinese businesses investing 30.042 billion baht, 31 Japanese businesses at 22.636 billion baht, 26 Hong Kong businesses at 4.803 billion baht, and 83 other foreign investors at 28.134 billion baht.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Police

PEA Worker Stabbed Over Unpaid Electricity Bill

A PEA electricity worker in Nakhon Si Thammarat was stabbed in the back by a homeowner after attempting to disconnect power for unpaid bills, leaving him in critical condition with bleeding lungs. The suspect, identified as 32-year-old Phu,

1d ago The Thaiger Crime

Nakhon Si Thammarat electricity worker fights for life after being stabbed on dutyLegacyA Thai man stabbed a Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) official in the back for cutting off power at his home in Nakhon Si Thammarat over an unpaid bill, leaving the victim in critical condition. The attack happened on August 14 outside at a residential area in Tha Ruea subdistrict, Mueang district, Nakhon Si Thammarat. The injured victim, 32 year old Chawanit, was reported to be the official from the PEA. CCTV caught the aftermath showing Chawanit riding his motorcycle out of the scene with one of his hands pressed to the wound, flagging down passersby for help. People in the area then took him to hospital. According to the report on Amarin TV, he remains in serious condition with bleeding lungs. The attacker was identified as 32 year old Phu. He escaped after stabbing and remains at large at the time of the reporting. Photo via Amarin TV Chawanit’s girlfriend, 31 year old Thanyaret, said that on the morning of the incident, Chawanit had visited Phu’s home to disconnect an electric meter due to unpaid bills. A child living in the house came out and asked Chawanit to give her parents more time to pay. He agreed and gave the household until the afternoon. According to Thanyaret, Chawanit returned to the house at around 5 pm to find that the bill was still unpaid. He was about to cut off the power when Phu arrived on his motorcycle. Phu claimed to be the owner of the house, complained to Chawanit about cutting off the power and suddenly stabbed him in the back. Phu | Photo via Amarin TV The 52 year old Thai man, Apichat, told Amarin that he is the owner of the house, and Phu was his stepson. He claimed that Phu did not return home for several days before the incident. According to his stepfather, Phu has a short temper and habitually carries a knife. He said that Phu had stabbed someone in a dispute two or three months ago and was still fighting that case. Local police officers are now gathering evidence and searching for the suspect. Related news

Electricity official caught discarding power bill warnings in Buriram Trang locals vexed by PEA’s abrupt power cuts over minimal dues Minister confirms Thais paid billions yearly in hidden electricity charges

The story Nakhon Si Thammarat electricity worker fights for life after being stabbed on duty as seen on Thaiger News.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Sailing Team Preps for Asian Games With AI Support

Thailand's sailing team is leveraging artificial intelligence and world-class foreign coaches to prepare for the Asian Games in Japan, competing across eight events. Officials visited the Maritime Sports Center to inspect readiness and pled

Thailand Sailing Team Preps for Asian Games With AI Support
1d ago Khaosod

Sports Development Fund of Thailand officials, led by Lieutenant General Supamanas Pharaphop, visited the Maritime Sports Center and the Thai Sailing Association to inspect preparations for the 20th Asian Games in Japan. The delegation reviewed team readiness and offered encouragement to national sailing athletes.

Thailand will compete in 8 of the 14 sailing events at the Games. The association has integrated artificial intelligence to analyze training data and competitor information, refining coaching methods for improved performance. The team also employs sports science principles across fitness, recovery, nutrition, health care, and dental services, with measurable targets to track athlete development continuously.

World-class foreign coaches have been brought in to enhance technique and tactical training, raising standards for international competition. During the visit, officials opened dialogue with coaches and athletes to address concerns and obstacles in team preparation, with a commitment to coordinate support through the fund's framework and ensure continued effective team readiness.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

EEC Housing Prices Plateau as Buyer Demand Weakens

EEC residential property prices stalled in the second quarter as weak buyer demand and market oversupply forced developers to boost promotions, with Chachoengsao showing the strongest performance among the three provinces.

EEC Housing Prices Plateau as Buyer Demand Weakens
1d ago Khaosod

The Real Estate Information Center (REIC) at the Government Housing Bank has released second-quarter 2025 price data for residential properties in Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), showing the residential property price index at 126.4 points, up 0.5% year-on-year from 125.8 points but unchanged from the first quarter. The flat quarterly movement reflects how EEC housing prices are entering a plateau phase as consumer purchasing power weakens and the market remains oversupplied, prompting developers to accelerate stock clearance through promotional measures.

By province, Chachoengsao posted the highest residential property price index at 130.5 points, up 0.9% year-on-year, while Rayong stood at 122.1 points, down 0.1%, and Chon Buri at 122.3 points, up 0.1%. By property type, single-detached houses saw the strongest price growth at 150.3 points, up 1.1% year-on-year and 0.2% quarter-on-quarter, with increases of 1.7% in Chachoengsao, 0.7% in Rayong, and 0.5% in Chon Buri. Townhouses were the only segment posting year-on-year declines, with an index of 113.8 points, down 0.3% from last year.

In marketing tactics, developers increasingly offered bundled gifts such as air conditioners, curtains, furniture, and water pumps—accounting for 45.0% of promotions, down from 50.0% the previous quarter. Free transfer fees rose to 41.6% from 34.3%, reflecting a shift toward reducing buyer transaction costs, while cash discounts dropped to 13.4% from 15.7%. The REIC compiles data on new residential projects in Chachoengsao, Rayong, and Chon Buri with at least six units remaining for sale, excluding resales, with 2022 set as the base year.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Police

Noodle Vendor Duped by Fake Fortune Teller Demanding Thousands

A foreign man posing as a Buddhist scholar and fortune teller convinced a noodle vendor in Nonthaburi that she was cursed, then scammed her out of nearly 3,000 baht for a fake purification ritual before threatening her when she demanded a r

Noodle Vendor Duped by Fake Fortune Teller Demanding Thousands
1d ago Khaosod

On August 17, 2025, at Bang Bua Thong Police Station in Nonthaburi Province, a 30-year-old noodle shop owner reported being defrauded by a foreign man claiming to be a respected Buddhist scholar and fortune teller. According to her account, on August 15 at around 11:20 am, a tall foreign man in his 50s wearing a headwrap approached her shop. He claimed he had seen spiritual entities attached to her and offered to help by performing a fortune reading. He made remarkably accurate predictions about her family, convincing her he possessed genuine spiritual powers. He charged 300 baht for the initial reading (200 baht for divination and 100 baht as an offering). During the reading, he had her place her palms together, and when he pressed his palms against hers, he claimed the numbers 531 appeared, indicating she needed to undergo a purification ritual to receive good fortune.

The man then persuaded her to pay 4,900 baht—later reduced to 2,900 baht—for a merit-making ceremony to remove malevolent spirits. The shop owner, feeling confused and disoriented, complied and made a bank transfer. After the man left, she came to her senses and realized she had been duped. When she called the number he provided to demand a refund, he threatened her, claiming she was disgracing his reputation, and told her to wait nine days for her life to improve. The victim noted that the predicted numbers 531 seemed designed to encourage her to buy a lottery ticket for the next draw, raising further suspicion of a scam. She filed a police report to prevent him from defrauding others.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Regional

209 Dugongs Stranded in Decade, Government Steps Up Protection Program

Thailand's government is intensifying efforts to protect endangered dugongs after 209 strandings over the past decade, implementing new shipping lanes with speed limits and redesigned fishing gear across 12 high-risk zones in southern water

209 Dugongs Stranded in Decade, Government Steps Up Protection Program
1d ago Khaosod

On August 17, Dr Pinsak Surasawat, director of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, announced that the Save Our Dugong initiative is being elevated in response to the ministry's conservation priorities. The programme targets 12 high-risk areas where dugongs face danger from human activities, particularly boat accidents and fishing equipment entanglement.

Measure One organises shipping lanes and enforces speed limits in six zones at risk of boat strikes: Rasada Port in Phuket, Bang Rong Port in Phuket, Khao Yao Noi–Khao Yao Yai channel in Phang Nga, Haad Noppharat Thara–Ao Nang in Krabi, Pak Meng–Ko Muk in Trang, and Ko Libong–Haad Yao in Trang. Buoys and markers will define vessel routes with speed restrictions: 5 knots within 1 kilometre of shore, 10 knots within 2 kilometres, 20 knots within 3 kilometres, 5 knots in seagrass beds, and 3 knots in protected seagrass areas.

Measure Two redesigns fishing gear in six zones at risk of entanglement: Ko Chang–Ko Phayam in Ranong, Ko Ra–Ko Phra Thong in Phang Nga, Pa Khlok–Tung Khen in Phuket, Haad Noppharat Thara in Krabi, Ko Sri Boya in Krabi, and Ko Muk–Ko Libong in Trang. Changes include single crab pots (one pot per buoy) kept out of seagrass beds, 5-millimetre sisal rope to reduce entanglement, weak links at connection points to aid escape, and appropriate line lengths. For multi-pot strings, weighted lines keep ropes straight. Crab nets are banned from seagrass beds; monitored nets in permitted zones reduce risk. Large fishing nets such as grouper drift nets are prohibited in seagrass beds and must stay at least 1 kilometre away.

The department aims to reduce dugong deaths from human activity to zero without restricting fishermen's livelihoods, instead creating safe shared use of marine resources. Both measures are expected to be implemented within six months. Over the past decade, 209 dugongs have been found stranded, with causes unknown in 78 cases.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Moshi Posts 1.94 Billion Baht Revenue in First Half

Moshi Moshi Retail reported 1.94 billion baht revenue in the first half of 2025, up 17.1 percent year-on-year, driven by strong same-store sales and expansion of 11 new locations across Thailand.

Moshi Posts 1.94 Billion Baht Revenue in First Half
1d ago Khaosod

Moshi Moshi Retail Corporation, Thailand's leading lifestyle retail chain, announced second-quarter 2025 results with operating revenue of 956.10 million baht, up 17.2 percent year-on-year, and net profit of 161.86 million baht, up 20.4 percent. The company's revenue breakdown comprised 86 percent from retail operations, 11 percent from wholesale, and 3 percent from other distribution channels.

The strong growth was driven by same-store sales growth of 4 percent, efficient cost management, and expansion of 11 new store locations across Thailand, including outlets in Mae Sot, Khon Kaen, Rayong, Maha Sarakham, Samut Songkhram, and Surin. For the first half of 2025, the company reported total revenue of 1.947 billion baht, up 17.1 percent year-on-year, with net profit of 352.83 million baht, up 21.5 percent. Net profit margin improved to 18.1 percent from 17.5 percent.

The company launched an extensive Back to School campaign featuring new seasonal products, licensed collections from Disney, Sanrio, Kakao Friends, and Powerpuff Girls, as well as in-house designed collections Snappy Dino and Moompa collaborations with Thai artists. Marketing efforts included appointing brand ambassadors and creating customer engagement through social media. The board approved an interim dividend of 0.64 baht per share with ex-dividend date on August 28 and payment date on September 11, 2025.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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