Police Bust Secret Drug Nightclub Hidden as Bangkok Gaming Shop

Police arrested 11 people and seized multiple drugs during a raid on an illegal Bangkok nightclub operating 24 hours behind a gaming shop facade on July 18, following intensified safety inspections after a deadly nightclub fire.

19 Jul The Thaiger Crime

Eleven arrested in raid on Bangkok nightclub disguised as gaming shopLegacyPolice arrested 11 people and seized several types of narcotics yesterday, July 18, after raiding an alleged illegal nightclub in Bangkok that investigators said was operating behind the façade of a gaming shop and selling drugs to customers. Police found 28 customers and staff inside the four-storey commercial building. Officers seized 224 ecstasy pills, 51.16 grammes of crystal methamphetamine, 3.83 grammes of cocaine, 326.24 grammes of ketamine, 19 ketamine vapes, 38 electronic cigarettes, 91,000 baht in cash, two rings and an amulet with a gold-coloured casing. The seized items were valued at around 300,000 baht. Photo via Khaosod The operation followed intensified inspections of entertainment venues across Bangkok after the recent nightclub fire in the Lat Phrao area. Investigators had received information that the venue was operating illegally 24 hours a day and supplying drugs to customers, earning it the nickname “secret pub” among regular patrons. According to police, the venue used a gaming shop as a front and obscured the front of the building with tarpaulins and parked vehicles. Access was restricted to regular customers, many of whom were bar hosts and entertainers who continued socialising after other nightlife venues had closed. Photo via Khaosod Police alleged customers could buy ketamine, ketamine vapes and ecstasy directly from staff before consuming the drugs openly inside the venue. Officers said the windows had been blacked out, making it difficult to distinguish between day and night, and that the club was typically busiest from 4am until 3pm. Some customers reportedly left the premises disoriented and struggled to adjust to daylight. Investigators also found the venue was operating without an entertainment licence. The building had only one main entrance and exit, no fire escape and failed to meet basic safety standards, while lighters were reportedly being used inside the premises. Photo via Khaosod Police charged Somchai, identified as the owner, and Phatthana, an employee, with possession of narcotics with intent to sell, possession of electronic cigarettes, operating an unlicensed entertainment venue and breaching entertainment venue operating hours. Nine other employees and customers who allegedly tested positive for drug use were also taken into custody for legal proceedings. Photo via Khaosod Police said Somchai admitted operating the venue for around one to two years and claimed ownership of the narcotics seized during the raid. According to police, he said the drugs were purchased both for personal use and for sale to customers. Khaosod reported that police said they would continue expanding the investigation to identify drug suppliers and anyone who assisted the alleged operation. The story Eleven arrested in raid on Bangkok nightclub disguised as gaming shop as seen on Thaiger News.

No. 01 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Police

Courier Workers Assault Mother and Child Over Unpaid Delivery Debt

A delivery company worker and associates broke into a Ko Lanta home and assaulted a mother and her 14-year-old son over an unpaid 2,000-baht debt, despite the family's attempts to resolve the dispute peacefully. The company has fired the em

19 Jul Khaosod

A Facebook user has reported being attacked by multiple employees of a well-known parcel delivery company who broke into her home at night to demand payment for goods, assaulting both her and her 14-year-old son, despite her insistence that she was not the direct purchaser and had attempted to resolve the matter peacefully.

On July 19, 2025, at noon, the victim explained to a news outlet that the goods were ordered by her younger sister using the victim's TikTok account. When the delivery worker arrived, neither the sister nor the victim was home, so the worker left the package and said he would return to collect payment later. Upon her sister's return and inspection of the items, she discovered insufficient funds to pay for all the goods—approximately 2,000 baht—and wished to keep only one collagen box worth about 300 baht, requesting the remaining ten-plus items be returned. The worker refused, citing the fact that the packaging had already been opened and there was no video recording of the unboxing process, creating a payment dispute.

The delivery worker made multiple follow-up collection attempts. During one confrontation around 9 p.m. the following evening, the worker arrived with associates and an argument ensued. The victim again confirmed she would collect the money once her sister provided it, but stated she had no reserve funds to pay upfront. During the heated exchange, one of the workers suddenly got out of the vehicle, demanded "Why won't you pay?" and kicked a trash bin before shoving the victim.

When the 14-year-old son objected, he was punched in the face. The boy grabbed a broom handle to defend himself, which angered the assailant, who then attacked the child with kicks and blows. When the mother intervened, she too was knocked down and beaten repeatedly, sustaining injuries around her eyes from blows of an unidentified weapon amid the chaos.

After the attack, the victim attempted to push the assailant out of her home, but he tried to grab metal to strike again until his wife intervened and challenged the victim to file a police report, claiming she had no fear of law enforcement.

The victim confirmed her son did not initiate the violence but raised the broom handle only in self-defense after being punched first. She also noted that some online pages had misreported the incident, falsely claiming her son attacked the assailant first.

Currently, the boy still bears injuries to his leg and face but must continue attending school during exam period. No case progress has been made, though the company manager visited to apologize and stated the involved employees have been terminated. The company presented a fruit basket as a gesture of regret.

The victim stressed that the company's disciplinary action addresses only internal employment matters, but the criminal investigation remains pending.

No. 02 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Police

Self-Taught Hacker Arrested for Trying to Delete Warrants

A 26-year-old self-taught hacker arrested in Phuket was attempting to breach Royal Thai Police systems to delete his own arrest warrants, police say. The suspect allegedly used AI chatbots to learn hacking skills and later defrauded an onli

19 Jul Khaosod

PHUKET — Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) officers have arrested a 26-year-old alleged hacker who police say taught himself advanced computer skills using AI chatbots after allegedly attempting to hack into Royal Thai Police systems to delete his own arrest warrants.

The suspect, identified as Sahachart Chuaybamrung, was arrested at an apartment in Phuket's Muang district on 18 July. Police seized 80 methamphetamine pills, a .380-caliber semi-automatic handgun, ammunition, desktop and laptop computers, and four mobile phones.

According to police, the suspect's original goal was not financial gain but to erase five outstanding arrest warrants against him, including charges related to robbery, fraud and computer crimes.

Investigators said Sahachart, who completed only Grade 6, fled to the Thai-Myanmar border after allegedly committing a robbery in Nakhon Si Thammarat. While in hiding, he allegedly began studying hacking techniques with the help of AI chatbots, hoping to breach Royal Thai Police systems and remove his arrest warrants.

Police said the attempt to penetrate government systems failed, prompting him to shift his focus to vulnerable commercial websites.

Authorities allege that in June, he exploited security flaws in an online platform offering game top-ups and mobile phone credit. By creating fake user accounts and manipulating the payment system to falsely indicate successful transfers, he allegedly generated fraudulent account credits without making any payments.

Police said the fake credits were then used to purchase digital products, causing the platform to absorb the costs and resulting in losses of more than 200,000 baht.

The company later filed a complaint with the CCIB, leading investigators to identify Sahachart as the suspect. Police tracked him to an apartment in Phuket using what they described as special investigative tools.

Authorities said the suspect resisted arrest before being subdued.

Police also allege that after developing his hacking skills, Sahachart upgraded his computer equipment and began offering hacking services while living in Phuket.

He now faces multiple charges, including unauthorized access to protected computer systems and data, damaging computer systems, computer crime offenses, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, and drug use.

No. 03 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Police

Wedding Caterer Left Holding 195,000 Baht Bill

A wedding caterer in Nakhon Ratchasima filed a police complaint after a bride left a 195,000 baht bill unpaid, claiming her foreign groom failed to provide the promised dowry for the lavish reception.

19 Jul Khaosod

NAKHON RATCHASIMA — A wedding catering business in Nakhon Ratchasima has filed a police complaint after being left with an unpaid bill of nearly 200,000 baht when a Thai bride allegedly failed to settle the cost of her lavish wedding reception, claiming her foreign groom never paid the promised dowry.

The owner of Krua Thong To Chin, a catering service in Pak Chong district, reported the incident to police after suffering losses of 195,000 baht.

According to the complaint, the bride hired the company to organize a full-service wedding reception, including 130 banquet tables, a live band, lighting and sound systems, and other event equipment.

The company said it completed the event as agreed but received only 130,000 baht, leaving an outstanding balance of 195,000 baht.

When asked to pay the remaining amount, the bride allegedly told the caterer that her foreign groom had failed to provide the agreed dowry, leaving her without enough money to cover the catering and event costs.

The business owner said the client later made only partial payments while repeatedly delaying settlement of the remaining balance, forcing the company to absorb the advance costs and affecting its cash flow.

The caterer has now filed a police report and urged other event organizers to use detailed contracts and stricter payment terms to reduce the risk of unpaid bills.

No. 04 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Five Top Youth Science Projects Win Prime Minister's Award

Five youth science teams won the Prime Minister's Science Award 2026 finals on July 18, with winners from Bangkok Christian College, Prince Royal's College, and Chulalongkorn Science School set to receive recognition from the Prime Minister

19 Jul Khaosod

On July 18, Suwarong Wongsiree, acting director of the National Science Museum (NSM), presided over the finals of the Prime Minister's Science Award 2026, with Dr. Kannika Chen, NSM deputy director, overseeing the awards ceremony. Five youth teams have won special awards: three teams from Bangkok Christian College, one from Prince Royal's College, and one from Chulalongkorn Science School in Loei. These young scientists will receive recognition from the Prime Minister on August 15 at the 69th Science Festival.

Dr. Kannika Chen revealed that the Prime Minister's Science Award 2026 is now in its tenth year, carried out through collaboration between the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, the National Science Museum, the National Science and Technology Development Agency, and the Thailand Science Society under Royal Patronage. The initiative aims to develop Thai youth learning skills through science projects while supporting teachers, schools, and parents in nurturing scientific potential. This year, 22 projects were selected, all of which have earned recognition at both national and international academic levels, demonstrating the potential of Thai youth to create knowledge and innovation that can advance Thailand's science sector internationally.

Dr. Kannika expressed congratulations to all award-winning teams, noting that their success stems not only from youth ability and determination but also from the support of government and business sectors. She hoped the competition would serve as inspiration and an important milestone for youth to continuously develop themselves, learn boldly, innovate, and create new things as they become vital forces driving science, technology, and innovation for Thailand's future.

The Special Award category under the Prime Minister's Science Award 2026 recognizes outstanding projects with impressive presentation and content aligned with supporting organizations' missions. The five awards include the Dow Innovation Award at the lower secondary level, won by Bangkok Christian College for a project on developing artificial eggs combined with automatic rearing and release of Super Trichogramma parasites to improve pest control efficiency.

No. 05 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Bangkok Market Vendors Plead for Governor's Economic Support

Thousands of vendors at Bangkok's Chatuchak Market are calling on the governor for emergency economic support, claiming the BMA collects fees while neglecting tourism promotion and market maintenance during a severe economic slowdown.

19 Jul Khaosod

Thousands of vendors at Chatuchak Market are pleading with Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt for assistance, warning that merchants are facing economic collapse due to economic slowdown and lack of tourism support. The online page Drama-addict shared a complaint from market vendors, noting that Chatuchak Market—the largest market in Bangkok—is currently quiet and desolate with no marketing or tourism promotion from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. The vendors questioned whether the governor's pledge to "work for everyone" includes Chatuchak merchants, and argued that while the BMA continues collecting rent and service fees, it has a legal duty to maintain and promote the market. They urged for immediate short-term economic stimulus and recovery plans, arguing that abandoning a world-class soft power landmark would be unfair to citizens who pay taxes and fees to the Bangkok authorities every month.

No. 06 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Police

Death Toll Rises to 34 in Ladprao Beer Hall Fire

A major fire at a Ladprao beer hall has claimed 34 lives, with all victims identified and 13 of the 70 injured still in critical condition as of July 19. Authorities are coordinating relief efforts and assistance for those affected.

19 Jul Khaosod

A further death has been confirmed in the Ladprao beer hall fire, bringing the total number of fatalities to 34, according to an update from Jatujak District Office on July 19, 2025 at 12:18 p.m. All 34 victims have been identified. Among the 70 injured, 13 are in critical condition (red alert), 9 are in moderate condition (yellow alert), and 48 have minor injuries (green alert). All green-alert patients have returned home. The district office continues coordinating with relevant agencies to monitor the situation, provide assistance to those affected, and facilitate public services. Affected individuals can apply for assistance at the Administration Section, 2nd Floor, Jatujak District Office, or call 0 2513 9713 for more information.

No. 07 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Woman Left Bedridden After Childbirth, Husband Abandons Family

A 28-year-old woman from Buriram Province remains bedridden and unable to speak or move after developing a blood clot in her lungs following childbirth in September, while her husband abandoned the family and they struggle financially to ca

19 Jul Khaosod

On July 19, 2026, a reporter visited 28-year-old Ms. Saa, a former company employee from Prakonchaicharoen District, Buriram Province, who now lies bedridden at home unable to speak or move her limbs. She can only blink her eyes and does not respond to conversation, facial expressions, or smiles. Her 50-year-old aunt and 53-year-old mother care for her and her 10-month-old son, named Phi.

According to her aunt, on September 12 of the previous year, Ms. Saa went to Prakonchaicharoen Hospital in labor. Doctors determined she needed a caesarean section and delivered a healthy 3,200-gram baby boy. Ms. Saa recovered well and could walk normally after surgery. However, approximately one day later, she went into shock with convulsions. She was transferred to Buriram Central Hospital from September 13 to October 27—44 days—where doctors diagnosed her with a blood clot in her lungs. She was discharged to home care as a bedridden patient, receiving 70,000 baht in compensation and free hospital transport if needed.

Her aunt had to quit her job to care for her niece. The family applied for a state welfare card to help with expenses but was rejected because records incorrectly listed her as owning a vehicle, which she has never owned. Ms. Saa's mother revealed that her son-in-law disappeared after his wife fell ill, visiting only once and abandoning the family to fend for themselves. Without income, they struggle to afford diapers, wet tissues, and infant formula. Well-wishers have donated about 30,000 baht, but the family remains uncertain about their future. The mother pleaded for medical experts to advise on her daughter's condition and help improve her mobility to ease the burden on caregivers, noting that her daughter is deeply traumatized both physically and emotionally.

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Thai Beauty Queen Eye Kanyalak Debuts Traditional Look at Miss Supranational

Thailand's Miss Supranational 2026 representative Eye Kanyalak has debuted a modern take on the traditional Thai Chakri dress in Poland, garnering praise for her elegant representation of the kingdom at the international pageant competition

19 Jul Khaosod

Thailand's Miss Supranational 2026 representative Eye Kanyalak Nukeaw has arrived in Poland and unveiled her first pageant look, appearing in an adapted Thai Chakri dress that captivated fans and international observers. The dress, inspired by the Chakri tradition associated with the late Queen Sirikit, was designed with modern sophistication in mind—featuring silver silk adorned with crystal patterns, a pleated bodice with short sleeves, and an intricately embroidered shawl (sabai). The ensemble is completed with diamond jewelry including a tiara, hair ornaments, and a diamond-studded belt from God Diamonds.

Her debut appearance has drawn significant attention from pageant enthusiasts and foreign media, with many praising her elegance and grace as a fitting representative of Thailand on the international stage. Thai supporters are rallying behind Eye Kanyalak as she prepares for the 17th Miss Supranational competition, with the final round scheduled for July 31, 2026, in Poland.

No. 09 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Doctor Warns of Five Sudden Heart Attack Signs

A Thai hospital doctor warns of five sudden heart attack warning signs—including jaw pain, unexplained fatigue, and chest tightness—that can strike anyone and demand immediate medical attention.

19 Jul Khaosod

Dr. Jed Bunyavongvorawirooj, deputy director of primary care at Maha Rachcha Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, posted a video on Facebook highlighting five warning signs of sudden heart artery narrowing that can affect people of any age, urging people not to take symptoms lightly.

Dr. Jed noted that coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. The five warning signs are: (1) Sharp pain in the jaw, teeth, or neck when blood supply to the heart is cut off; (2) Pain or tightness below the breastbone resembling acid reflux that doesn't improve with antacids—this may indicate heart muscle oxygen deprivation rather than reflux; (3) Sudden, unexplained fatigue where daily activities become difficult and even light exertion causes breathlessness and excessive sweating; (4) Dizziness, heart palpitations, and excessive sweating from severe blood deprivation that don't improve with rest or drinks; and (5) Inexplicable exhaustion and tiredness where routine activities become impossible without cause—this suggests the heart is weakening as it fails to pump oxygen-rich blood efficiently.

Dr. Jed warned that delaying medical evaluation—thinking symptoms can be checked tomorrow or when there's time—is why many people lose consciousness and die before receiving help. He advised everyone to manage risk factors including diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and obesity, emphasizing that even if doctors can revive someone, they may not return to their normal state.

No. 10 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Bangkok Overhauls Civil Service Exam, Cancels University Contract

Bangkok terminated its contract with Srinakharinwirot University to administer its civil service exam and is overhauling the recruitment process following corruption concerns in local government hiring.

19 Jul Khaosod

Bangkok has upgraded transparency in its civil service recruitment exam process to prevent corruption issues like those found in local government recruitment, Deputy Governor Twida Kamalawech announced on July 19. The Civil Service Commission and Personnel Office have been instructed to thoroughly review all exam procedures, including test design, administration methods, score processing, and security protocols, along with Bangkok's terms of reference and requirements.

The city has terminated its contract with Srinakharinwirot University, originally selected to administer the exam. The university agreed to the cancellation without objection. The next exam is now expected in mid-September 2026, with clarity on the new procurement process expected by August 15 and candidate lists announced by late August. Approximately 7,000 applicants have already registered but may request refunds if unable to sit for the rescheduled exam.

Meanwhile, Bangkok has appointed committees to investigate 17 additional equipment procurement projects, with preliminary findings expected by August 15. A 30-day review period has been set for the fact-finding committees. The city is also intensifying its review of seven previously identified problematic projects and will analyze data from the 17 new investigations alongside them. A committee meeting scheduled for July 23 will track progress on reviewing the central price-setting process for all seven projects. Bangkok is committed to expediting all steps to reach clear conclusions and restore public confidence.

No. 11 of ∞ Read at source → Next