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No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Ex-Local Government Official Faces Fraud Charges in Civil Service Exam

Former local government director Theerawut Suphawibulphol faces fraud charges for allegedly manipulating civil service exam answer sheets in Nonthaburi Province, with 12 other suspects including university officials also under investigation

Ex-Local Government Official Faces Fraud Charges in Civil Service Exam
6 Aug Khaosod

On August 6, 2025, Pol. Lt. Col. Netiwit Thanasitthinitikhul, deputy commander of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), disclosed progress in the corruption case involving the local government civil service recruitment examination. Theerawut Suphawibulphol, former director-general of the Department of Local Administration, is currently under interrogation at the ACB and will be formally notified of charges. A total of 13 suspects have been summoned to hear the charges.

The suspects are divided into two groups: 11 local government officials accused of altering answer sheets at a private company in Nonthaburi Province, and 2 others—Theerawut and Assoc. Prof. Ruengdej Sirikij, director of the Educational and Psychological Testing Center at Srinakharinwirot University (SWU).

Theerawut and Ruengdej have been charged with six offenses, including dereliction of duty, forging official documents, falsifying government records, destroying others' documents, and unlawfully accessing sealed documents. The 11 officials face charges of fraud, violations of the Criminal Code Section 188, and computer crime laws.

Six suspects, including Theerawut, Ruengdej, and four officials involved in exam tampering, have already met with investigators. The remaining seven local government officials are scheduled to meet with investigators by August 10. Once interrogation is complete and charges are formally filed, the case is expected to be forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission by August 12 for further investigation.

The ACB has also coordinated with the Anti-Money Laundering Office to trace the financial activities of all suspects, as they are civil servants accused of criminal conduct. If any suspicious wealth is discovered, additional charges can be filed immediately.

In a related development, the Department of Local Administration filed a separate complaint against Srinakharinwirot University and Assoc. Prof. Ruengdej on July 24 for falsifying official documents, but investigators have determined this case is connected to the main investigation and will be processed together.

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National

Thai Chamber Projects Record Mother's Day Spending at 11.1 Billion Baht

Thai businesses expect record Mother's Day spending of 11.1 billion baht in 2025, though growth will remain modest at 0.7% as consumers stay cautious amid economic pressures and high living costs.

Thai Chamber Projects Record Mother's Day Spending at 11.1 Billion Baht
6 Aug Khaosod

The Thai Chamber of Commerce forecasts Mother's Day spending of 11,139 million baht in 2025, marking the highest level in seven years. According to Thanavorn Ponwichit, rector and advisory chair of the Chamber's Economic and Business Forecasting Center, spending will grow only 0.7% year-on-year, representing activity comparable to the previous year. The modest growth reflects ongoing consumer caution and the fact that Mother's Day falls on a Wednesday, not continuous with the weekend.

Director Umakamol Sunthasurat of the Chamber's Economic and Business Forecasting Center revealed that 40.9% of respondents said they would not buy Mother's Day gifts, 20.7% planned to shop online, 20% would shop both online and offline, and 18.4% would use physical stores. Promotions ranked first as a purchasing factor, followed by product quality, affordability, and trustworthiness. The most popular gifts are flowers and garlands, followed by body care products, vitamins and medicines, soft furnishings and shoes, lottery tickets, cash, and gold.

Regarding Mother's Day activities, 52.1% plan to take their mothers out to eat, spending an average of 2,374 baht (up 0.5%), while 36.6% plan temple visits averaging 1,315 baht (up 1.9%), and 33.1% plan outdoor activities spending 1,669 baht (up 1.6%). Only 17.5% plan to stay home, budgeting 294 baht (down 1.3%).

On overall spending budgets, 54.3% said spending would remain unchanged, 23% expect to spend more, and 22.7% plan to spend less, citing high living costs, weak economic conditions, and reduced income as reasons for cutbacks. When asked about their current financial status compared to last year, 53.3% said it remained the same, 16.8% reported improvement, 13.6% said much better, 13.4% said worsened, and 2.9% said much worse. Most respondents reported having just enough for Mother's Day expenses with nothing left to save.

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Police

Mother Grieves at Memorial for Slain Russian Siblings in Chon Buri

A Russian mother grieved at a memorial service for her two slain children, Diana and Roman, in Chon Buri province alongside Thai family members killed in the same case, with officials and locals gathering to pay respects.

Mother Grieves at Memorial for Slain Russian Siblings in Chon Buri
6 Aug Khaosod

On August 6, 2025, the family of Diana and Roman, two Russian siblings who died in a shocking murder case in Huai Yai subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province, held a final memorial service at the spot where their bodies were found. Led by their mother, Charina Nazimova, the ceremony was held to mourn the victims and dedicate merit to them, as well as to three Thai family members who were killed in the same case.

The service was presided over by Buddhist monks including Phra Kru Kasetkitti Sophon and Phra Kru Plad Thirayut Chotigo, with Chon Buri Governor Narish Niramaiyanongse, Police Region 2 Commander Pol. Lt. Col. Phongphan Wongmanites, Bang Lamung District Officer Anusak Piriyomorn, and numerous officials, locals, and foreigners attending to pay their respects and offer condolences.

The atmosphere throughout the ceremony was filled with sorrow. Relatives and mourners brought white flowers—carnations, lilies, and roses—to place at the discovery site in memory of the deceased before standing in silent respect and saying a final farewell. White flowers symbolize purity, respect, and peaceful parting. The family also placed Diana's favorite coffee cup at the site as a touching tribute to cherished memories.

Throughout the service, Diana and Roman's mother was unable to hold back her tears, crying throughout the ceremony while receiving comfort and encouragement from relatives, friends, and mourners.

Charina Nazimova expressed gratitude to all Thai citizens, government agencies, police officers, and volunteers who provided assistance and support during this difficult time. She stated that she was deeply moved by the kindness of the Thai people, which gave her family strength to endure this tragic period.

This memorial service marked the final farewell to the victims' souls, held amid the grief of family, friends, and those following the case. All present hoped that justice would be served swiftly and decisively against those responsible, to bring closure and justice to the victims and their families.

The family of Diana and Roman are Buddhists, with their mother having raised both children as a single parent.

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National

Thailand Studies Moscow Metro to Upgrade Railway System

Thailand's transport ministry delegation studied Moscow Metro's digital ticketing, payment systems, and operational technologies to enhance the country's railway infrastructure and passenger services.

Thailand Studies Moscow Metro to Upgrade Railway System
6 Aug Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn is advancing transportation cooperation between Thailand and Russia following a signed memorandum of understanding between both countries' transport ministries. On August 5, 2025, Ratchakitprakarn led a delegation from Thailand's Ministry of Transport to Moscow to meet with Moscow Metro executives and specialists, discussing railway management systems including digital station services, ticketing and travel data systems, modern train models, and maintenance protocols across the entire vehicle lifecycle. The delegation toured the Maryina Roshcha and Aminevskoye Electric Depot stations for technical discussions on operational systems.

Ratchakitprakarn stated that the discussions aimed to exchange best practices for managing large-scale mass transit systems efficiently while serving high passenger volumes. The focus was on using technology to solve problems and improve public services alongside cost management, safety, and long-term system reliability.

At Maryina Roshcha station on the Big Circle Line, the Thai team discussed digital station development and passenger-centric service design, including travel information systems, signage, interior layout, and payment solutions. Moscow Metro demonstrated multi-channel payment options including bank cards, QR codes, digital devices, and biometric systems such as facial recognition, with approximately 93% of passengers using non-cash payment methods. This streamlines service delivery while maintaining cash options and staff assistance for those who need it.

The Thai delegation also examined technologies that reduce routine workload while maintaining service quality, such as advanced turnstiles supporting multiple payment and identification methods, live remote communication stations connecting passengers with staff, and a prototype digital assistant named "Sasha" providing travel information. The team was particularly interested in Moscow Metro's approach to collecting passenger feedback through QR codes to improve and expand new services—ensuring technology truly serves passenger needs rather than simply being implemented for its own sake.

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Police

Brother Seeks Detailed Autopsy For Hlun, Fears Poisoning

The body of Bowortat Pungsuk, a Thai man who died in Georgia, underwent detailed autopsy in Bangkok as his family seeks to determine if poisoning caused his death, citing insufficient details in the foreign examination.

Brother Seeks Detailed Autopsy For Hlun, Fears Poisoning
6 Aug Khaosod

On August 6, 2025, the body of Bowortat Pungsuk, known as Hlun Solo, was brought to the Institute of Forensic Medicine at the Ministry of Justice for a detailed autopsy to be conducted over approximately two hours. Somsak Butrsri, Hlun's older brother, expressed concerns about chemical substances in the body and heart-related issues, noting that the foreign autopsy results lacked clear details. Georgia's examination only preserved certain organ samples and DNA evidence without providing detailed documentation of what was examined or removed. The family is now seeking a comprehensive Thai autopsy to compare findings and determine the true cause of death. If evidence of foul play is discovered, they plan to present the results to Georgian authorities to pursue legal action, though they are unsure how to proceed. The family has no knowledge of Hlun's actual illness but feels compelled to investigate if death resulted from harmful actions. Georgia reported finding no signs of physical trauma. The brother expressed gratitude to Thai citizens for their assistance in bringing Hlun home and noted that the family, particularly the grandmother, has requested he be called home throughout the journey. The body will be returned on August 7, and details of religious ceremonies are still being discussed with family members. Georgia returned only a passport and clothing; the camera used for recording remains in Georgian custody pending investigation.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Tightens Checked Baggage Inspections Starting October 16

Thailand's Civil Aviation Authority will enforce stricter checked baggage inspections starting October 16, 2026, opening bags only when X-ray scans detect suspicious items, with all inspections video-recorded and documented to align with in

Thailand Tightens Checked Baggage Inspections Starting October 16
6 Aug Khaosod

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has clarified the enforcement of new regulations on checked baggage screening effective October 16, 2026. The measure represents an upgrade to aviation safety standards in line with international practices used worldwide, with baggage inspections conducted only when there is reasonable suspicion of dangerous items or flight safety threats, all subject to strict procedures and documented audits.

CAAT previously revised aviation safety laws to accommodate growing passenger numbers and improve screening efficiency, with the new regulation announced in February 2026. The checked baggage inspection measure takes effect October 16, 2026, allowing airports, airlines, and relevant agencies time to prepare personnel, systems, and passenger communications.

CAAT emphasized that unannounced baggage opening is not routine screening but occurs only when X-ray equipment detects suspicious objects or items potentially affecting flight safety. All inspections occur in designated areas with video recording and evidence documentation at each step, enabling audits of who performed the inspection and what was found. Passengers are notified after inspection under established procedures.

These standards are used in Singapore, Japan, South Korea, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States to prevent dangerous items from being brought aboard and improve flight management efficiency while reducing delays from tracking down passengers before departure.

CAAT recommends passengers use internationally certified luggage locks such as TSA locks, which security officials can open if necessary without damaging baggage. Passengers should verify prohibited items before travel, as similar measures apply at airports worldwide and may involve additional inspections at origin, transit, and destination countries. Violations of local laws may affect travel.

Passengers experiencing problems or damage from these procedures may file complaints through their airline or submit to CAAT's complaint system at https://complaint.caat.or.th for investigation and appropriate action.

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Police

Police Raid Home of Alleged Amulet Camera Scam Artist

Police arrested an amulet enthusiast in Nonthaburi for allegedly defrauding buyers with counterfeit Zeiss Blue Marine cameras marketed as limited-edition collaborations, netting nearly 20 million baht in advance orders.

Police Raid Home of Alleged Amulet Camera Scam Artist
6 Aug Khaosod

Police from the Consumer Protection Police Division raided the residence of Ton Bangkhae, a well-known amulet enthusiast, in the Bangkhruai area on charges of defrauding the public through the sale of counterfeit Zeiss Blue Marine amulet cameras. On August 6, 2569, Police Major General Tasaphoomi Jaruprachya ordered Police Lieutenant Colonel Chamnan Monthetsae of the 4th Investigation Division to search a residence in Tambon Bangkhuwieng, Bangkhruai District, Nonthaburi Province, belonging to Tonthong Suekkaen, also known as Ton Bangkhae, with an arrest warrant on fraud charges.

The warrant was issued following complaints from multiple victims who reported being deceived into purchasing Zeiss Blue Marine amulet cameras advertised at inflated prices. Despite searches at both the residence and workplace, the suspect was not found. Officers learned that he had left his home around 11 p.m. on August 5. Police are currently pursuing him for arrest and prosecution.

Later, police successfully apprehended Tonthong and brought him to the 4th Investigation Division for questioning. The arrest followed multiple complaints from victims who believed they were scammed by Tonthong in purchasing the Zeiss Blue Marine amulet cameras. The suspect allegedly misrepresented the product as a special edition camera, claiming to be the first Thai to collaborate with the renowned German lens manufacturer Zeiss on a world-class project commemorating Zeiss's 175th anniversary.

According to allegations, Tonthong marketed the cameras as a limited edition with only 3,175 units produced globally, falsely claiming superior optical qualities over standard amulet cameras to artificially inflate the product's value. His marketing campaign generated high demand, resulting in nearly 20 million baht in advance orders within days of the launch, despite the cameras being priced at 15,999 baht per unit.

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Police

Lawmaker Questions Why Alleged Gambling Boss Avoids Arrest

A Thai lawmaker questions why an alleged gambling boss nicknamed "Mr. Q" has evaded arrest despite warrants for others in a 40-million-baht bribery case involving a government minister, suggesting either a false complaint or investigative n

Lawmaker Questions Why Alleged Gambling Boss Avoids Arrest
6 Aug Khaosod

At a parliamentary committee meeting on August 6, 2025, Rangsimant Rom, chair of the Law, Justice, and Human Rights Committee, said Deputy National Police Chief Trairongn Phiopharn would provide information on the 40-million-baht bribery case involving Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiyachon Chidchob. Rom raised public suspicion about why "Mr. Q," allegedly overseeing 4,000 gambling websites, has not been summoned or prosecuted despite arrest warrants being issued for everyone else involved in the case.

Rom proposed two theories: either Chaiyachon filed a false complaint against Mr. Q, or there is negligence by officials handling the investigation. He questioned how Mr. Q could live freely in Thailand without a summons, arrest warrant, or any legal action while others face prosecution. Rom suggested the matter would eventually be transferred to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for further investigation.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Tightens Data Center Investment Rules

Thailand's Board of Investment is tightening screening criteria for data center projects to ensure sustainable resource use and maximum economic benefits while managing energy and water impacts. The stricter rules follow cabinet approval of

Thailand Tightens Data Center Investment Rules
6 Aug Khaosod

The Board of Investment (BOI) is revising its criteria for promoting data center investments following the cabinet's approval of a new Prime Minister's Office regulation on data center policy on August 5, 2026. The move aims to strengthen project screening to maximize economic returns while managing energy, water, and environmental impacts. BOI Secretary-General Naret Thadsirisak stated that the agency will align its review framework with the new policy committee's guidelines, which establish governance standards for the data center industry. He reaffirmed that Thailand is not closing its doors to investment but will carefully select only projects offering genuine and tangible benefits to the nation.

Data centers are critical infrastructure for Thailand's digital economy and AI development, but rapid expansion has raised concerns about electricity consumption, water usage, and community impacts, necessitating balanced rules that attract investment while ensuring sustainable resource use. The new criteria will focus on four main dimensions: economic benefits through job creation, Thai workforce development, domestic business linkages, technology transfer, and AI ecosystem support; energy readiness to protect other electricity users; efficient water management; and environmental safeguards throughout the project lifecycle.

Between 2024 and 2026, the BOI approved 42 data center projects worth over 750 billion baht, with combined processing capacity of 3,400 megawatts, attracting investors from multiple countries. No new promotion applications have been received since April 2026. Data center investment is driving Thailand's digital industry growth in cloud computing, AI, and skilled workforce development, while also attracting key supply-chain manufacturers such as hard disk, AI server, telecommunications equipment, and cooling system producers to establish operations in Thailand, strengthening the country's long-term economic competitiveness.

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National

Actress Tom Ratchaneekor Wins Lawsuit Against Loluck Hospital

Actress Tom Ratchaneekor won her medical malpractice lawsuit against Loluck Hospital, securing 7.7 million baht in damages for complications from cosmetic facial surgery.

Actress Tom Ratchaneekor Wins Lawsuit Against Loluck Hospital
6 Aug Khaosod

Actress Tom Ratchaneekor has won her case against Loluck Hospital following a judgment hearing held on August 6, 2026, at Nonthaburi Court. Tom sued hospital administrator Pin Loluck (Pisorn Srichaiyanant) for 50 million baht in damages related to complications from cosmetic facial surgery. The court ordered the fourth defendant to pay approximately 7.7 million baht in total damages, with the hospital as the first defendant held jointly liable. The compensation breakdown includes 2.9 million baht for medical treatment and corrective surgery, 1.8 million baht for lost income, and 3 million baht for future damages.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Park Chief Faces Investigation Over Closed Similans Lodging Approval

The Similans National Park chief faces investigation for allegedly allowing a lawmaker and his group to stay at the park four years ago, violating an eight-year closure order that restricts the area to day-trips only.

Park Chief Faces Investigation Over Closed Similans Lodging Approval
6 Aug Khaosod

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plants announced on August 6, 2025 that the department director has ordered an investigation into whether the Similans National Park chief violated department regulations by permitting lawmaker Wirote Theeraphatthanont and his group to stay at the park about four years ago.

The investigation was triggered when Wirote, serving as a special parliamentary committee member, discussed his personal experience from a camping trip to Similans National Park approximately four years earlier during budget debate sessions on August 5, 2025. He described the accommodation and service quality as "extremely poor" and cited specific complaints including lights being shut off at 8 p.m., poor bedding conditions, limited water supply, weak internet signal, and recommended considering private-sector management partnerships (PPP).

Department Director Arthapol Charounchansai acknowledged the lawmaker's constructive suggestions but emphasized the need to verify the facts thoroughly. He ordered an investigation committee to examine whether the Similans park chief's authorization for Wirote's group violated the department's October 4, 2016 closure announcement, which has been in effect for eight years and mandates the area be restricted to day-trips only to address waste, wastewater, and environmental protection concerns.

The director stated that while the department welcomes beneficial recommendations to improve service efficiency, all proposals must follow proper government procedures and legal frameworks. He reaffirmed that any useful suggestions will be considered for operational improvements while adhering to all relevant regulations and legal requirements.

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