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No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Environment Minister Orders Full Prosecution of Toxic Waste Dumpers

Thai environment officials discovered 200–300 kilograms of toxic electrical waste being burned illegally in a protected forest in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, prompting the Environment Minister to order full prosecution of those responsibl

Environment Minister Orders Full Prosecution of Toxic Waste Dumpers
25 Jul Khaosod

Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin has ordered the Department of Forestry to urgently investigate toxic waste being dumped in the Huai Khai protected forest area in Wang Takian subdistrict, Kabinburi district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, to address concerns for local residents who forage for mushrooms and forest products there.

On July 23, forest protection officials from Unit 2 Thung Poi, working with local government and police from Wang Takian station, inspected the Teng Rang forest area adjacent to the Princess Srinagarindra Plant Genetic Conservation Project. They discovered four large piles of insulated electrical cable and wire scraps in red and black scattered across the area, some compressed in large bags, with evidence of burning to extract copper and aluminum for sale while leaving behind melted plastic casings and chemical ash producing acrid smoke. The toxic waste is estimated to weigh 200–300 kilograms and was apparently burned at night before residents discovered it about two days later.

The area is a 1,000-rai protected forest that locals use for subsistence foraging. Dumping and burning chemical waste there constitutes serious environmental destruction and air and soil pollution. Reports indicate a capital group has scattered toxic waste across Prachuap Khiri Khan province, with three major dumping sites identified: one in Had Nang Kaew subdistrict with crushed wire dumped in a six-meter-deep pit, one in Wang Tha Chaloem subdistrict with black chemical powder and wire casings mixed into roads and runoff polluting agricultural water, and one in Wang Takian subdistrict with 200–300 kilograms of wire secretly burned in the plant conservation forest.

Minister Suchart announced that the Department of Forestry and the Pollution Control Department, through the Office of Environmental Quality and Pollution Control Region 7 in Saraburi, have been ordered to investigate immediately and pursue legal action against violators to the fullest extent without exception.

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Community

Actors To and Leena Discuss New Romance-Drama Film Her In Frame

Actors To and Leena star together for the first time in romantic-drama "Her In Frame," inspired by the love story of King Rama IX and Queen Suthida, with To playing dual roles as a photographer and civil engineer while exploring more nuance

Actors To and Leena Discuss New Romance-Drama Film Her In Frame
25 Jul Khaosod

Actors To Thanaphop Leeratanakhachon and Leena Lalina Suwat are collaborating for the first time on the romantic-drama film "Her In Frame," and spoke about their roles and working together on the project.

When asked what attracted them to the film, To explained that he had been searching for a love story project where he could play an ordinary person. He noted that while his previous work was not abnormal, audiences often expected a gimmick when they saw his face on screen. "I wanted to erase that perception," he said. "I'm not tired of drama, but I wanted to try something different. Drama doesn't have to mean sadness—it's about life itself. As I've matured, I think my range as an actor should expand."

Leena said she was attracted to the romantic-drama genre and the story's inspiration from the love between King Rama IX and Queen Suthida. "The film has genuine value through its storyline and inspiration, which is why I wanted to take on the role," she explained.

To emphasized the significance of the film's historical inspiration. "Learning more about the story has moved me deeply, especially since I grew up during the reign of King Rama IX through to King Rama X. The love story depicted here is special and romantic without needing to be artificially constructed. That's what makes it interesting," he said. "Love is a concept without cultural borders. We don't need to explain it to other cultures—nowadays our productions have many international fans."

Regarding his role, To plays a photographer named Tawan. "This might be the smiling role of my career," he joked. "I feel very relaxed playing this character and it feels enjoyable, though I'm hesitant to confirm it's the most relaxed role I've ever had."

To revealed he plays two contrasting characters: Danai and Tawan. The dual role required distinct characterization to avoid confusion. "Danai is the more challenging role because he's more mature, working as a civil engineer who travels to different villages. The difficulty was mainly the tight denim pants—I've never worn jeans that snug before," he laughed.

Leena similarly plays two characters: Kamalwan and Mintra. She explained the difference in their rhythms and mannerisms. "Kamalwan is from an earlier era, so she speaks and moves more slowly, while Mintra is a modern woman with confidence, brightness, and passion for what she does. When playing the historical character, I had to slow everything down,"she said.

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National

Book Explores Modern Thai Temples as Spiritual Theme Parks

New book "Buddhiland" examines how Thai temples have evolved into spiritual theme parks blending commerce with faith, transforming traditional merit-making sites into major tourism attractions since the 1960s.

Book Explores Modern Thai Temples as Spiritual Theme Parks
25 Jul Khaosod

"Buddhiland: The Modern Thai Temple Faith Frontier" by Pinyaphan Pojanalavanya

When people think of "temples," they typically envision religion, merit-making, architecture, sacred places, markets, and temple fairs that have become tourist destinations—yet most never question whether such activities are truly religious in nature.

Buddhism in Thailand has grown alongside various spiritual beliefs and practices, collectively termed "muteelu." This has created a social phenomenon blending faith with commerce, transforming into a tourism industry that has been a vital revenue source for Thailand since the 1960s. Both foreign and Thai visitors now treat temples as major destinations, making temple visits function more like spiritual theme parks focused on entertainment and knowledge rather than traditional merit-seeking.

"Buddhiland" examines how capitalism and consumerism have reshaped temples—transforming them from purely religious sites into hybrid attractions that combine merit-making, belief, and excitement through magnificent architecture, storytelling, and faith that draws visitors to celebrate success and fulfill wishes.

The book investigates the "Buddhist commerce" phenomenon and questions how Thai temples have changed in contemporary society. It traces these spiritual destinations through successive chapters: Why Buddhiland Exists; Buddhist Diversity and Giant Sacred Structures; Buddhiland's Formation Before the 1997 Economic Crisis; Thai Spiritual Theme Parks After the 1997 Crisis; Temples in the Era of the 2014 Coup, COVID-19, and Economic Collapse.

"Buddhiland: The Modern Thai Temple Faith Frontier" by Pinyaphan Pojanalavanya, 304 pages, black-and-white illustrations. Special price: 281 baht (regular 330 baht). Preview available at https://bit.ly/4x40UP9. Order at https://linktr.ee/BuddhistLand

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Bicycles in Siam's Royal Court: A Literary Journey

During King Rama V's reign, bicycles symbolized wealth and status among Thai royalty before becoming fashionable among the upper class, a trend captured in the novel "Four Reigns" by Sansanee Veerasil Chai.

Bicycles in Siam's Royal Court: A Literary Journey
25 Jul Khaosod

E-books have become essential for book lovers and readers today, offering convenience, simple navigation, and the ability to read anywhere with internet access without taking up physical shelf space.

This week's bookstore feature highlights these interesting e-books:

"Four Reigns" and True Stories from the Siamese Royal Court by Sansanee Veerasil Chai

Bicycles have recently become increasingly visible as public bike-sharing systems expand and health and wellness trends surge, making them both a quick mode of transport and an effective exercise tool. However, in the past—particularly during King Rama V's reign—bicycles held a different status as a symbol of social standing and wealth. Bicycles were among the fashionable items that palace residents enjoyed, originating in the Western world around 1837. When they spread to Thailand during King Rama IV's era via Christian missionaries, palace staff during King Rama V's time had the opportunity to ride them, creating a fashion that soon spread among upper-class society. Not owning one's own bicycle even became a matter of embarrassment.

This craze for bicycles is reflected in the literary work "Four Reigns," which describes competitions over vehicles—whose was better than whose—and aligns with historical evidence. Letters from Queen Sukhumala Marasri instructed Prince Boriphat Sukhumphon, who was studying in Germany, to purchase bicycles, specifically requesting: "Mother is asking her son to find a bicycle for her—one that is of good quality and as light as possible."

This fashion for bicycles during King Rama V's limited circle eventually evolved and spread beyond palace walls to ordinary people, eventually becoming the beloved vehicle and exercise tool many enjoy today. Read about the origins of the bicycle and the enduring "craze" in "Four Reigns" and True Stories from the Siamese Royal Court by Sansanee Veerasil Chai.

2475: The Palace During the Revolution by Narit Charusjranyavong, Editor

When people hear the name "Suphachalai," many think of the national stadium that has hosted major sports and entertainment events. Yet few know that "Suphachalai" is also connected to one of the 2475 Revolution's key figures, who played an important role at the Klaikangwon Palace by meeting with King Prajadhipok (Rama VII). This is evident in the records of Mom Chao Poon Pismai Diskul: "There was a discussion with Luang Suphachalai (Uncle Suphachalai), a naval officer who commanded the warship to escort the King back from Hua Hin. He said Luang Supha drank and went aboard the warship with a flushed face, yet when he saw the King, his hands trembled and his speech was halted."

Beyond his role in Thai political history, "Uncle Bunga" was also instrumental as a People's Party member in modernizing Thai sports, serving as the first Director of the Physical Education Department. The stadium's name thus commemorates not just a sports pioneer, but also reflects the People's Party era's policy of using sports to promote public health and national strength through the power of the people.

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Police

Young Mother Dies in Motorcycle Crash During Rainstorm

A 20-year-old mother died when her motorcycle hit a parked trailer truck on a rainy night in Chiang Mai's Doi Luang District, leaving behind a young child.

Young Mother Dies in Motorcycle Crash During Rainstorm
25 Jul Khaosod

A tragic motorcycle crash on the Chiang Mai–Chom Thong road claimed the life of a 20-year-old mother on the night of July 24, 2025. Investigators from Doi Luang Police Station in Chiang Mai responded to the accident involving a motorcycle colliding with the rear of a parked trailer truck on the road through Doi Luang District. One woman died at the scene, and rescue volunteers from the Chiang Mai Faith and Unity Rescue Association were dispatched to assist with the investigation. At the scene, officers found the motorcycle lodged against the rear of the parked trailer. The victim was identified as Ms. Faan, 20, a resident of Doi Luang, whose death is particularly tragic as she leaves behind a young child of only a few years old. According to preliminary findings, Ms. Faan was riding during a heavy downpour in darkness when her motorcycle struck the parked trailer truck with great force, resulting in her fatal injuries.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Lawmaker Slams Scant Payout for Rocket-Damaged PTT Pump Station

A Thai lawmaker criticized inadequate compensation for a PTT pump station owner in Sisaket whose facility was damaged by a Cambodian rocket, revealing the state has provided no assistance while the owner faces over 10 million baht in uncove

Lawmaker Slams Scant Payout for Rocket-Damaged PTT Pump Station
25 Jul Khaosod

On July 25, 2025, Wasawat Phuangphonsri, known as Gangfu, a list-based lawmaker and Thai United Party leader, posted on Facebook regarding the owner of a PTT water pump station in Ban Phuea, Kantharalak district, Sisaket province, damaged by a Cambodian BM-21 rocket. The owner filed a complaint after failing to receive state compensation.

Wasawat clarified the facts after speaking directly with the owner:

– The 9 million baht from CP is aid in goods form, not cash. – The 1 million baht insurance payout is humanitarian assistance only, as the incident qualifies as an act of war and falls outside insurance coverage. The owner paid the insurance premium himself. – PTT is covering only approximately half of the pump station roof structure. Demolition costs, construction of a new building, and lost income expenses remain the owner's responsibility, amounting to over 10 million baht. – The state has provided zero assistance to date because the pump station is a juristic person and does not meet compensation criteria, despite officials initially promising to cover half the damages. The owner agreed to accept 4 million baht from an 8 million baht claim, but the government later retracted this offer. – The owner told Wasawat he is prepared to accept his fate if state compensation is ultimately denied and will continue pursuing the process.

Wasawat stated: "I will seek to review compensation criteria through parliamentary commission procedures to ensure those genuinely affected do not lose their rights due to legal technicalities and receive fair justice."

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Police

Deputy Minister Raids Unlicensed Hotels in Ao Nang

Deputy Interior Minister Polapee Suwunchwee conducted surprise inspections of two unlicensed hotels in Ao Nang on July 24 as part of a nationwide effort to shut down illegal hotel operations in Krabi.

Deputy Minister Raids Unlicensed Hotels in Ao Nang
25 Jul The Phuket Express

The Phuket Express -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Krabi – Deputy Interior Minister Polapee Suwunchwee led a surprise inspection of two suspected unlicensed hotels in Ao Nang, Krabi, on July 24, expanding a nationwide crackdown on illegal hotel operations and suspected nominee businesses. The inspections followed complaints that some properties were operating without required licenses. One property, a luxury pool villa advertised on […] Deputy Interior Minister Leads Illegal Hotel Inspections in Krabi -=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=- The Phuket Express - Real. Unbiased. Impactful. In the moment.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

Counterfeit Warehouse Raided: Fake Coffee, Cocoa, Fabric Softener Seized

Police raided a Saraburi warehouse on July 9, seizing over 216,000 counterfeit items including fake coffee, cocoa drinks, and fabric softener worth 3 million baht. Four suspects were arrested for manufacturing and distributing bogus branded

Counterfeit Warehouse Raided: Fake Coffee, Cocoa, Fabric Softener Seized
25 Jul Khaosod

A major crackdown on a counterfeit goods network has resulted in the seizure of over 216,000 items of fake cocoa drinks, coffee, and fabric softener, with economic damages exceeding 3 million baht. On July 9, 2025, the Department of Intellectual Property and the Economic Crime Suppression Division executed a court-authorized search of a warehouse in Saraburi province, discovering 29 different counterfeit branded products. Officers confiscated raw materials including sugar, artificial creamer, milk powder, and cocoa powder, along with large-scale manufacturing equipment such as mixing machines, automatic filling machines, mixing tanks, and counterfeit packaging and labels.

The operation resulted in the arrest of four suspects facing charges under the Trademark Act of 1987, which carries penalties of up to four years imprisonment, fines of up to 400,000 baht, or both. The investigation revealed that the network had been illegally transporting and distributing these fake products to retailers nationwide, causing significant harm to trademark owners and consumers. The counterfeit products were manufactured using non-standard ingredients packaged in unsanitary materials that may contain harmful chemicals, posing serious health risks.

Authorities emphasized proactive enforcement against intellectual property violations, particularly for consumer goods used in daily life. The Department of Intellectual Property urged consumers to purchase products carefully from reputable retailers with appropriate pricing, and warned against suspiciously cheap products. During the first half of 2025, Thai police have arrested 251 trademark infringement cases and seized approximately 1.1 million counterfeit items worth over 224 million baht.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Men Over 40 Face Male Menopause Risk, Doctor Warns

Men over 40 can experience male menopause due to declining testosterone levels, affecting sexual performance, mood, muscle mass, and increasing cardiovascular disease risk. A Taiwanese urologist warns that 24% of men this age have low testo

Men Over 40 Face Male Menopause Risk, Doctor Warns
25 Jul Khaosod

Men can experience menopause too, according to a Taiwanese urologist who reveals that 5–30% of men over 40 have low testosterone levels, a condition called male menopause. This condition can impact sexual performance, mood, muscle mass, sleep quality, metabolism, and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Dr. Huang Wei-Lun, a Taiwanese urologist, notes that women often complain their partners have become lazy, forgetful, unmotivated, and have lost sexual interest. Similarly, many male patients report feeling exhausted, uninterested in sex, and lacking their former drive.

Testosterone peaks around age 30 and declines gradually by 1–2% annually thereafter. Research from five Taiwanese medical centers found that approximately 24% of men over 40 have low testosterone. The condition is often overlooked because symptoms are subtle, but it can affect sexual performance, mood stability, muscle mass, sleep quality, metabolism, and increase cardiovascular disease risk.

Doctors recommend using the ADAM Score assessment tool, which asks 10 questions about sexual desire, energy levels, strength, height, happiness, mood, erectile function, exercise fatigue, post-meal drowsiness, and work performance. Answering "yes" to three or more questions, or "yes" to either question 1 (decreased sexual desire) or question 7 (reduced erectile function), warrants consultation with a urologist to measure hormone levels and identify underlying causes.

Dr. Huang emphasizes that male menopause can be diagnosed and treated effectively with proper care, so men over 40 experiencing fatigue, declining performance, or noticeable changes in sexual interest should not ignore these symptoms.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Politician Attacks Activist Over Senate Candidate Allegations

A Thai politician has accused an activist investigating his party of being part of a coordinated opposition campaign to influence senate elections, claiming past social media activity and alleged vote-trading discussions prove hidden politi

Thai Politician Attacks Activist Over Senate Candidate Allegations
25 Jul Khaosod

Wachrapong Kuwijitsuwan, member of parliament for Samutprakan and chairman of the House Police Committee, has responded to activist Yingcheep Atchananont, director of iLaw (Internet Law project), regarding allegations about nine Bhumjaithai politicians. Wachrapong stated that if Yingcheep investigates with sincere intent and no hidden agenda, he is ready to accept the scrutiny as a politician, but he contended that past behavior and digital footprints tell a different story.

Wachrapong alleged that coordinated movements tied to recent Senate elections revealed connections between iLaw, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit's Progressive Movement, and opposition parties working together to campaign for senate candidates—behavior he questioned as potentially collusive vote-trading. He further claimed that after their efforts failed, they attempted to overthrow the current senate to clear the way for reserve senators allegedly networked to the opposition party, which he characterized as a genuine conflict of interest.

Wachrapong also cited past events to reinforce his claims, including Progressive Movement social media posts promoting senate candidate fairs organized by iLaw and cases where Thanathorn discussed senate vote-trading in Yingcheep's presence without objection. He questioned why Yingcheep would submit to loyalty to Thanathorn in such situations and why his stance now appeared to contradict his silence then.

Wachrapong concluded with a warning to Yingcheep, noting that many youth and activists had been deceived by the opposition's spiritual leadership only to face painful truths and bitter consequences. He urged Yingcheep to wake up, come to his senses, and reconsider before it is too late.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Police

Man Arrested for Abusing Granddaughter Over Two Years

A 54-year-old man was arrested in Rayong Province for allegedly sexually abusing his great-niece over two years starting when she was 4 years old. The suspect denies the charges and claims intoxication, while the child's mother filed the co

Man Arrested for Abusing Granddaughter Over Two Years
25 Jul Khaosod

On July 25, 2569, Pol. Lt. Col. Watchrapong Buntham, an investigator at Samkhangtong Police Station in Muang District, Rayong Province, received orders to expedite the case after the mother of a 6-year-old girl filed a complaint. She alleged that her daughter had been sexually abused and assaulted by a family member for over two years, from age 4 to 6, and had been threatened not to tell anyone, leaving the child traumatized and fearful.

Police arrested 54-year-old Rung, the husband of the victim's grandmother's sister, making him the victim's great-uncle, at his residence in Muang District. He was taken into custody at Samkhangtong Police Station for further questioning that lasted through the night into the following morning. The suspect's wife and relatives attended and prepared to post bail.

Rung remained expressionless and denied all accusations throughout interrogation, claiming he was intoxicated on the day in question and had no memory of events. He insisted he would only provide a statement in court. During transport to Rayong Provincial Court, the suspect continued to deny the allegations to reporters. Preliminary charges include child sexual abuse and child endangerment.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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