Customs Seizes 25 Million Baht in Drug Shipment to Phuket

Customs seized 5.26 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and over 100,000 pills worth 25.15 million baht hidden in an ice cooler shipped to Phuket on July 22, with authorities expanding their investigation into the smuggling network.

27 Jul Khaosod

The Customs Department is ramping up enforcement operations against illegal drug trafficking in line with government policy, following the successful seizure of 5.26 kilograms of ice and over 100,000 methamphetamine pills worth approximately 25.15 million baht that were concealed in an ice container shipped to Phuket province. Officials are expanding the investigation into the smuggling network. On July 27, 2025, Region 5 Customs Office, working with related agencies, conducted operations in Phuket and successfully intercepted crystal methamphetamine and methamphetamine tablets hidden inside an ice cooler in a parcel box. Customs Director Panthong Loaygulanant stated that the department is implementing urgent policies set by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprayat to strengthen prevention and suppression of drug trafficking. All sectors are integrating efforts to increase vigilance and monitoring of illegal drug imports, exports, and transit to prevent Thailand from becoming a drug trafficking route, with enhanced checks at all entry points including airports, border checkpoints, and postal systems nationwide. On July 22, 2025, Region 5 Customs officers conducting random inspections at a private transport company in Phuket discovered a suspicious parcel. X-ray screening and chemical testing confirmed the presence of Schedule 1 narcotic drugs consisting of 5.26 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine in transparent plastic bags and approximately 100,000 orange and green methamphetamine tablets in blue plastic bags, with a total estimated street value of 25.15 million baht. Following the discovery, authorities coordinated with the Phuket Narcotics Control Bureau and Region 2 Narcotics Suppression Command to expand the investigation into the sender, recipient, and other parties involved in the smuggling operation. The charges fall under the Narcotic Drugs Act regarding unauthorized possession with intent to distribute for commercial purposes, causing public harm and threatening national security or public safety. Customs Director emphasized that this seizure reflects the department's commitment to working with narcotics police to prevent drug smuggling through parcel channels into world-class tourist destinations like Phuket, ensuring public safety and national security.

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National

TAT Launches Campaign for New UNESCO Heritage Site

Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan in Nakhon Si Thammarat has become Thailand's ninth UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its 1,500-year-old Buddhist traditions blending influences from India, Java, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. The Tourism Au

27 Jul TAT Newsroom

Bangkok, 27 July 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is celebrating the inscription of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan in Nakhon Si Thammarat on the UNESCO World Heritage List as Thailand’s ninth World Heritage property and sixth cultural property. TAT is carrying this historic recognition forward through “The Twelve Sacred Discoveries Nakhon Si Thammarat: A Journey to World Heritage” campaign, a year-round programme inviting visitors to discover the site’s living Buddhist heritage across the seasons.

The World Heritage Committee inscribed the property at its 48th session, held from 19–29 July 2026 in Busan, Republic of Korea, following a recommendation by the International Council on Monuments and Sites. Recognised for its Outstanding Universal Value under criteria (ii) and (vi), Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan has served as a major regional Buddhist centre since its foundation in the eighth century.

Religious and architectural traditions from northeastern India, central Java, Sri Lanka and the Mon region of southern Myanmar were integrated into the monastery’s buildings, rituals and cultural practices. Its distinctive artistic and architectural expressions subsequently exerted an enduring influence across Thailand and Southeast Asia. Religious and local traditions have continued at the monastery for more than 1,500 years, including the annual cloth-wrapping ceremony for the Great Reliquary and the Nora dance drama.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “TAT will build on this recognition to position Nakhon Si Thammarat as a leading destination for living heritage, where faith, culture and community remain central to the visitor experience. Our focus is to create lasting value through responsible tourism, strengthen local participation and ensure that the significance of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan is understood, respected and sustained for generations to come.”

The inscription brings Thailand’s World Heritage portfolio to nine properties, comprising six cultural and three natural properties. The cultural properties are the Historic City of Ayutthaya; Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns; Ban Chiang Archaeological Site; The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments; Phu Phrabat, a testimony to the Sīma stone tradition of the Dvaravati period; and Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan. The natural properties are Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries, Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex and Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex.

The inscription is being celebrated across Nakhon Si Thammarat through a two-day programme concluding today, 27 July. Organised by the province with government agencies, private-sector partners and local communities, the programme includes Nora and Khon performances, merit-making and alms-giving, Buddhist chanting, ordination ceremonies, meditation sessions and exhibitions. Nora and Khon are both recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Together, the activities present the historical, religious, artistic and cultural significance of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan while reflecting its continuing role as a centre of worship and community life. They also celebrate the traditions and cultural identity of Nakhon Si Thammarat and southern Thailand.

Running alongside the celebrations, TAT is hosting a commemorative photo booth from 25–30 July near the sacred Bodhi tree and Sai Kaeo courtyard, opposite Phra Wihan Luang and in front of the souvenir centre. Visitors may register to receive an instant photograph and digital image marking Thailand’s newest World Heritage inscription and share the story with wider audiences.

Beyond the commemorative programme, TAT will extend the recognition throughout the year through “The Twelve Sacred Discoveries Nakhon Si Thammarat: A Journey to World Heritage” campaign. Under the concept “Discover the Past. Share the Faith. Shape the Future.”, the campaign invites visitors on a journey through the province’s Buddhism, ancient civilisation and enduring traditions.

Each month and season will reveal a different dimension of the royal monastery, from its architecture and inherited wisdom to Buddhist teachings and stories of faith. Guided by the local saying, “everyone should pay homage to Phra That of Nakhon Si Thammarat at least once in their lifetime”, the campaign will encourage deeper understanding of the property while supporting responsible visitation, heritage conservation, local participation and sustainable economic opportunities.

Participation in the commemorative activities is free of charge. Further information is available from the TAT Nakhon Si Thammarat Office at +66 (0) 7534 6515–6 or through the Facebook page TAT Nakhon Si Thammarat Office.

The post TAT celebrates Wat Phra Mahathat UNESCO World Heritage inscription with year-round campaign appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

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Police

Foreign Tourist Assaults Five in Hua Hin Rampage

A foreign tourist launched a violent rampage at a cannabis shop in Hua Hin, assaulting five people including shop staff and a disabled flower vendor before being restrained by bystanders on July 26.

27 Jul Khaosod

A foreign tourist sparked a violent rampage at a cannabis shop in Hua Hin district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, destroying property and assaulting shop staff, passersby, and a disabled woman selling flowers from a wheelchair. Good Samaritans intervened to restrain the suspect before police arrived at Hua Hin Police Station on the evening of July 26.

A 20-year-old witness named Sujitra, who filmed the incident, reported she was doing nails at a nearby shop when she heard shouting from the cannabis shop across the street. She saw the foreign man violently attacking another man, then shouting and assaulting a motorcyclist who came to help. He then dragged the disabled flower vendor from her wheelchair and punched her in the face, knocking her to the ground. The suspect continued the rampage at a nearby restaurant before being restrained by five citizens, who struggled to hold him due to his large size.

A cannabis shop employee, one of the victims, said that after hearing commotion, she came downstairs and was immediately struck in the left side of her face without warning when she opened the door. A cyclist who came to help was also attacked. The suspect had visited the shop two days earlier with no signs of trouble. The incident is believed to have been triggered by a verbal dispute with another customer, possibly involving religious matters, which escalated when his temper flared. The suspect is identified as a Qatari national. Approximately five people were injured, and the employee confirmed receiving medical examination at a hospital and intends to press charges to the fullest extent.

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Police

Police Identify Suspects in Ex-Tennis Star's Mysterious Death

Police have identified suspects in the death of retired tennis star Nathvir, 64, found dead in his Chonburi accommodation on July 25, and are gathering evidence before issuing arrest warrants amid investigation into personal conflicts and p

27 Jul Khaosod

Police have identified a group of suspects in the mysterious death of a former national tennis team athlete and are gathering evidence before issuing arrest warrants, focusing on personal conflicts and property disputes. Deputy Commander Chokuchai Ngamwong visited Nong Prueao Police Station in Chonburi on July 27, 2026, to oversee the investigation into the death of Nathvir, 64, a retired Thai national tennis player who died in his accommodation. Deputy Commander Wasutrachai Chaitherapat and station commander Nathapol Pong Suksakul attended the coordinated meeting with investigating officers.

After the meeting, Chokuchai revealed that the case has progressed significantly, but because the incident occurred on the night of July 25, he could not disclose full details to avoid compromising the investigation. Officers have been continuously collecting witness statements, examining circumstantial evidence, and gathering forensic evidence, allowing them to identify suspects for further investigation. "The individuals currently being questioned remain in witness status while officers screen information and systematically eliminate unrelated persons," he stated.

Regarding arrest warrants, Chokuchai indicated that evidence collection is still ongoing to confirm the perpetrator's identity with certainty, so no warrants have been issued yet. The investigation is pursuing multiple leads, including personal disputes, property theft, and personal matters, with authorities committed to quickly resolving the case and prosecuting the responsible parties.

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National

Bangkok Contractor Seeks to Block International School Project Over 57M Baht Debt

A Bangkok construction company owner has filed for suspension of building permits on a 57-million-baht international school project, alleging the client failed to pay installments and illegally brought in new contractors without proper auth

27 Jul Khaosod

On July 27, Jenchanakorn Rueangsuwan, owner of a construction company, submitted a letter to the Public Works Office requesting suspension of building permits under the Building Control Act for an international school project valued at 57 million baht in Bangkok's Prawet District. Rueangsuwan claims he is the original constructor and holds all architectural and engineering rights and documentation for the project, which began in October 2018 under contract with Kids Campus International Limited.

According to Rueangsuwan, the client breached the contract by failing to pay installments and bringing in new contractors without proper transfer of plans and oversight, violating building control regulations. He states he never signed off on the transfer and that the project now lacks proper engineering supervision, creating structural safety risks. He has requested that authorities halt construction, freeze all building permits and licenses, and conduct an investigation until the legal dispute is resolved.

Rueangsuwan previously filed complaints with local police and a justice ministry mediation center, but the other party failed to appear. He has now escalated the case to the Anti-Corruption Division to pursue full legal remedies.

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National

Sleek Partners with ICBC to Ease EV Motorcycle Financing

Sleek and ICBC Leasing launch affordable financing for electric motorcycles, offering loans up to 86,900 baht with monthly payments starting at 3,362 baht to boost EV adoption among professional riders.

27 Jul Khaosod

Sleek has joined forces with ICBC Leasing (Thailand) to introduce the "SLEEK Green Loan" campaign, offering affordable financing for electric motorcycle ownership. Kantinun Tanveenung, CEO and co-founder of Sleek EV, announced that the program aims to improve access to financing and make it easier for professional riders to own electric motorcycles. The loan provides a maximum credit amount of 86,900 baht with repayment periods up to 36 months, with entry-level monthly payments of 3,362 baht or approximately 113 baht per day.

The campaign comes amid surging growth in electric vehicle and motorcycle adoption in the commercial transport sector. Demand for electric vehicles has climbed more than 35% compared to the same quarter last year, fueled by rising consumer environmental consciousness. Sleek developed the Green Loan initiative to support riders seeking commercial use of electric motorcycles, offering flexible ownership options and financial relief.

Customers can apply for the SLEEK Green Loan with any Sleek electric motorcycle model, including the SLEEK PLAY and TYPE-E. The program reduces upfront capital barriers while supporting long-term energy cost and maintenance management. The partnership reflects Sleek's commitment to building a comprehensive ecosystem that supports riders throughout their journey—not just through vehicle sales, but also energy services, after-sales support, and appropriate financing options. This enables riders to confidently start their careers, generate income, and enjoy improved quality of life through reduced costs, increased earning opportunities, and sustainable transportation.

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National

Bangkok Tightens Safety Standards for Entertainment Venues

Bangkok has upgraded safety inspections for 1,066 entertainment venues, requiring stricter fire prevention, building safety, and sanitation standards by September 30 through a new self-assessment system.

27 Jul Khaosod

Bangkok's deputy governor has upgraded inspection checklists to enforce stricter safety standards at service establishments and similar businesses across the capital, with particular emphasis on fire prevention. The enhanced checklist covers three key areas. Deputy Governor Pornprom Vikitsreth announced on July 27 that Bangkok had held a meeting on July 26 with business operators to discuss raising safety standards for both licensed service establishments and similar unlicensed businesses operating in the capital.

According to Vikitsreth, Bangkok has 147 licensed service establishments and 919 similar businesses—totaling 1,066 venues. Businesses classified as "similar" differ from licensed establishments in that they operate outside zoning restrictions but hold permits for food sales and entertainment, activities deemed health hazards. In response, Bangkok has elevated its inspection checklist from the original public health focus under the 1992 Public Health Act to add stringent building safety and fire prevention standards covering three inspection areas:

1. Building safety (ventilation systems, electrical systems, decorative materials, thermal and sound insulation) 2. Fire prevention (emergency exit signage, fire suppression systems, fire alarm systems, fire extinguisher equipment, evacuation routes, emergency lighting, and related systems) 3. Sanitation standards (building design, noise control, ventilation, lighting, toilets, urinals, and hand-washing facilities)

Bangkok will also launch a Self-Check online system through the Digital Office allowing business operators to conduct self-assessments across five critical categories: fire safety systems; electrical, audio, and signal wiring; wall and ceiling decorative materials and insulation; floor plans showing maximum occupancy; and liability insurance coverage. Operators must attach photographs and certified engineer documentation before submitting data to Bangkok's system.

The system will be distributed to operators by July 28, with a deadline of September 30 for completing self-assessments and submitting data as part of Bangkok's broader effort to raise safety standards.

Suriyachai Raviwan, director of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, stated that his agency has established a three-phase safety management framework for all government units and business operators. The framework includes prevention readiness (appointing safety inspectors, conducting fire training and evacuation drills, running continuous safety campaigns), response readiness (clear decision trees and command roles during emergencies, trained containment and evacuation teams, operational alert systems), and recovery readiness (coordinating external agencies and assessing damage).

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Community

Actor Warns Parents After Son Scratched at Mall Playground

TV actor Auan Rangsit's young son was scratched by another child at a mall playground in Nonthaburi, prompting the actor to call for better parental supervision of children with behavioral issues.

27 Jul Khaosod

Actor and television personality Auan Rangsit Sirinananth has upset his fans by posting about an incident involving his young son Roha, who was scratched on the face by another child while playing at an amusement park inside a shopping mall. Auan questioned parental supervision and admitted he was unsure how he would have reacted if he had been there.

In his post, Auan shared a photo showing scratches on Roha's face and wrote: "If your child has behavioral or mental issues, you should supervise them closely rather than letting them become a social threat like this. The incident happened yesterday when my wife and son went to play at an amusement park in a mall in the Nonthaburi area (I wasn't with them). As Roha was walking into the trampoline area, a child who appeared to be at least 10 years old walked up and scratched his face for no reason, then followed and continued scratching him even though Roha did nothing and didn't fight back. Anyone who knows Roha knows he is a well-behaved child who would never initiate conflict or fight with anyone. After seeing the video, that's exactly how it happened. If I had been there, I'm not sure I could have controlled my emotions. My son shouldn't have to experience something like this. Finally, I want to thank the Klinique for providing first aid to Roha's wound." He added hashtags #WhatShouldIDo and #ChildWithMentalDisorder.

Fans have expressed concern and sympathy, with many commenting that the other child's parents should be held responsible, suggesting Roha was fortunate the injury wasn't more serious, and recommending that the mall's security footage be reviewed and warnings given to both the child and parents.

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Weather

Spectacular Waterspout Forms Off Phuket's Racha Island

A waterspout descended from clouds to sea off Racha Yai Island near Phuket on July 27, creating a dramatic spectacle visible to nearby tour boats with no reported damage.

27 Jul Khaosod

A waterspout formed in the sea off Racha Yai Island near Phuket, creating a spectacular sight for tourists and observers as it stretched visibly from cloud base to sea surface. On July 27, Phuket Times published images of the phenomenon occurring in Rawai subdistrict, Phuket City, where the rotating column of air descended clearly from the cloud base to the ocean before gradually dissipating. Several tour boats and passenger vessels were present in nearby waters at the time, though no damage or injuries were initially reported. Waterspouts are rotating wind phenomena that develop over open water, most commonly during thunderstorms and variable weather conditions. Although typically short-lived, they can threaten maritime safety if they occur along shipping routes. With the Andaman Sea continuing to experience monsoon influence bringing heavy rain and strong winds, boat operators, fishermen, and sea travelers should closely monitor official weather alerts and avoid approaching such phenomena to ensure their safety.

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National

Bangkok Reorganizes Areas to Build Royal Crematorium

Bangkok authorities are reorganizing the area around the Grand Palace to construct a royal crematorium for Queen Sirikit's funeral ceremony scheduled for July 27, 2026, with construction beginning in August.

27 Jul Khaosod

Bangkok's deputy governor coordinated all city agencies to reorganize the area layout and relocate service points to accommodate construction of the royal crematorium for the royal funeral ceremony of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, scheduled for July 27, 2026.

At a meeting of the Field Command Center in Pranakorn District, Deputy Governor Thaiwut Khankaew presided over the third meeting of the coordination body, with representatives from Bangkok municipal offices, the Fine Arts Department, the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMA), and other relevant agencies in attendance.

Deputy Governor Thaiwut briefed the meeting on progress in site preparation and the layout plan for constructing the royal crematorium and its supporting structures for the royal funeral ceremony of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit Phra Borom Rajini Nath, the Queen Mother. The Fine Arts Department will extend temporary fencing on the western side to begin construction on August 1, 2026, necessitating the relocation of rest tents and royal food distribution points from that area.

The Public Works Office has been assigned to prepare a comprehensive area map that clearly designates each agency's work zones. Pranakorn District Office will coordinate with local police to manage access routes to pay respects and traffic flow to ensure safety and minimize impact on the public.

Regarding area management and public services, various service points such as royal food distribution and medical services will be relocated to the tunnel area in front of the Grand Palace, with the tunnel interior organized proportionally, neatly, and appropriately for service delivery.

Additionally, the Public Relations Office will relocate large LED screens from the rest tent and food distribution areas, beginning tonight until completion, with some screens to be installed at the royal kitchen area. Communications systems and supporting equipment will be checked to ensure readiness, along with public announcements about tent relocations and changes to the access routes for paying respects, so the public receives comprehensive information.

All agencies have been instructed to ensure orderliness and readiness for ongoing operations, including checking personnel preparedness and verifying opening and closing times for public communication. The Environment Office will be tasked with maintaining cleanliness, managing mobile public restrooms, and handling waste disposal continuously, while coordinating with relevant agencies to prepare for the royal ceremony and tribute exhibitions.

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National

Thailand Launches First Big Data Strategy Plan

Thailand's Cabinet approved its first Big Data strategy plan for 2025-2027, aiming to establish a data-driven economy and boost AI capabilities across government and business. The three-year initiative targets 35% annual economic growth fro

27 Jul Khaosod

The Cabinet has approved Thailand's first Big Data strategic plan for 2025-2027, marking a major step toward a data-driven economy and society. Deputy Government Spokesperson Lallida Perisawivat announced that the plan, submitted by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, will serve as the country's foundational framework for Big Data development and aims to strengthen economic and social foundations, improve policy decisions, enhance national competitiveness, and systematically promote artificial intelligence.

Developed by the Big Data Institute (Public Organization), the plan addresses critical Thai challenges including data scattered across multiple agencies, shortage of data and AI professionals, incomplete data connectivity, cybersecurity and personal data protection vulnerabilities, and legal and infrastructure gaps.

The strategy envisions "harnessing the power of data to drive economic growth and simultaneously improve quality of life." Major objectives include expanding Big Data use for policy decisions, fueling data-driven economic growth, and advancing data and AI-integrated services and innovations.

The plan sets ambitious targets: by 2027, economic value from Big Data should grow at least 35% annually, and Thailand should rank among the world's top 25 in digital competitiveness for Big Data capabilities.

The strategy comprises four key pillars: developing national data infrastructure such as Government Cloud and National Big Data Platform; promoting Big Data use to address challenges in health, tourism, environment, agriculture, and commerce; developing and applying AI to upgrade public, business, and industrial services while supporting Thai-language AI models and development datasets; and building human resources by training at least 160,000 personnel in Big Data and AI by 2027.

Spokesperson Lallida emphasized that the government views data and AI as essential tools for improving national management, public services, and private-sector competitiveness. The Big Data strategy will anchor Thailand's data-driven economy, enable public-private data sharing, and translate digital innovation into concrete benefits for citizens and the nation.

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