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No. 01 · ENDLESS
Community

Former Millionaire Sells Golden Buddha Frame to Feed 1,700 Stray Dogs

A former millionaire known as the "Angel of Stray Dogs" sold her golden Buddha frame to fund care for 1,700 stray animals in Saraburi, after losing her entire fortune to employee fraud years ago.

Former Millionaire Sells Golden Buddha Frame to Feed 1,700 Stray Dogs
21h ago Khaosod

The 'Angel of Stray Dogs' decided to sell her golden Buddha frame as a final option to support over 1,700 stray dogs and cats, with monthly costs approaching one million baht. She disclosed that she was previously a multimillionaire but lost her entire fortune to employee fraud, which became widely publicized.

Kramjao Winidtaopatham and her son traveled from Mueang District in Saraburi, bringing the golden Buddha frame to sell to Namo Banchangtong after redeeming it from a pawn shop, where it had been mortgaged for 100,000 baht due to inability to pay interest. She explained that she currently supports only 1,700 dogs in shelters, down from the previous number, and still pays staff to prepare food for the stray animals, resulting in substantial expenses.

She attributed the need to sell the Buddha frame to lack of funds for caring for the animals. Previously, she possessed hundreds of millions of baht in the form of two concrete mixer truck companies with 280 vehicles total, but lost everything to employee fraud over five years with nothing remaining.

She has cared for stray dogs and cats since 2002, spanning 24 years. Previously, she spent 600,000-700,000 baht monthly with over 2,000 animals. When funds were available, she didn't worry as the companies generated approximately 20 million baht monthly, allocating 1.2 million baht for animal care including medical treatment and spaying. Currently, the royal household assists with 100,000 baht monthly against expenses of 600,000-700,000 baht.

The golden Buddha frame, previously housed at Wat Rakhang, was sold for 3 million baht to a renowned Buddha amulet collector. Additionally, she holds numerous pawn tickets which she abandoned as she couldn't pay interest. Namo Banchangtong promised to help settle the pawn tickets and assist with remaining funds. The Buddha frame ultimately sold for 122,938 baht after being melted down.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Royal Orchid Disputes 4.87 Billion Baht Buyback Claim

Royal Orchid disputes GROREIT's decision not to repurchase its Bangkok hotel for 4.87 billion baht, claiming the trustee altered payment terms without authorization and saying it remains ready to complete the buyback under original contract

Royal Orchid Disputes 4.87 Billion Baht Buyback Claim
21h ago Khaosod

Royal Orchid (Thailand) Public Company Limited (ROH) has issued a clarification to the Securities Exchange of Thailand following GROREIT's announcement that it will not repurchase the Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Bangkok hotel valued at 4.873 billion baht due to changes in payment procedures that deviate from the contract. Managing Director Withawat Wipakul explained that MFC, acting as trustee, had notified the company of a revised payment method that does not comply with the original purchase agreement, and that ROH had requested MFC to correct this breach. On July 14, 2025, the company's authorized representative visited the relevant land office to formally object to the contract violation.

ROH confirmed its intention and obligation to repurchase the property according to contract terms but stated it cannot accept the payment method MFC has proposed, as it contradicts the original agreement. The company emphasized it faces no financial or operational obstacles to completing the buyback and continues to manage the hotel during this process. The company will provide further updates to shareholders and investors once the contract dispute is clearly resolved, pending completion of the repurchase proceedings.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
Police

Fire Victim's Husband: Officials Never Contacted Me

Husband of nightclub fire victim says he received no official notification and had to independently locate his wife at hospitals after learning of her death from a friend on July 15.

Fire Victim's Husband: Officials Never Contacted Me
21h ago Khaosod

At 13:50 on July 15, 2026, at the Institute of Forensic Medicine at the Police Hospital, Washin, husband of Jatuporn, one of the victims of the nightclub fire, arrived to claim his wife's body. He revealed that he learned of his wife's death around 11:00 a.m. on the day of the incident, when her friend called to notify him.

He then traveled to the scene to inquire with police officers before being advised to check various hospitals, as authorities were unable to immediately confirm the identity of victims.

Washin stated that initially he did not know the names of the affected individuals. Police informed him that two women in critical condition were being treated at Rachavithi Hospital, so he went to check and found his wife there. Throughout this period, no authorities contacted him to provide information or assistance—only his wife's friend called with news. He had to handle all matters himself, including tracking down the injured and coordinating with various agencies. It was only upon arriving at the Institute of Forensic Medicine that he received guidance on procedures for receiving the body and other support.

His wife, who lived in the Tha Phra area of Bangkok, had told him on the day of the incident that she was going to a friend's birthday party before leaving home. She did not regularly visit that particular venue. The friend who accompanied her remains in critical condition at Phra Mongkut King's Institute of Technology Hospital.

Regarding compensation, Washin acknowledged some concerns but declined to comment on the initial assistance of 10,000 baht that the establishment would provide, saying he still lacks details and must prioritize funeral arrangements first.

Washin added that he and his wife have two adult children—a daughter and a son—both of whom have finished their education and are employed. Despite this tragic loss causing great trauma to the family, he is not overly worried about their future. When asked how he would manage life without his wife by his side, he simply replied, "It's alright, I still have my children," before excusing himself to handle paperwork and take his wife's body for religious rites at Wat Predoo in Thonburi, Phetchkasem Soi 15, his wife's family temple.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Princess Sirivannavari Presents Birthday Flowers to Environment Minister

Princess Sirivannavari presented birthday flowers to Environment Minister Suchat Chomklin on July 15, extending royal blessings for his service to Thailand's natural resources and environmental conservation.

Princess Sirivannavari Presents Birthday Flowers to Environment Minister
21h ago Khaosod

Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya has graciously bestowed a floral arrangement upon Suchat Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, on the occasion of his birthday, as an auspicious blessing to the recipient.

At 9:00 a.m. on July 15, 2026, the Princess's representative presented the royal flowers to Suchat Chomklin, extending Her Royal Highness's birthday wishes and blessings.

This auspicious occasion marks an extraordinary expression of royal grace, bringing joy to Minister Suchat Chomklin and staff throughout the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The minister pledges to cherish this royal kindness and draw inspiration from it in his duties, dedicating himself with loyalty to serve the public welfare and ensure sustainable conservation of the nation's natural resources and environment.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Police

Thai Police Bust Child Exploitation Ring at Rayong Boxing Camp

Thai police arrested a 28-year-old man operating a child sexual exploitation ring at a Muay Thai boxing camp in Rayong, with investigators now searching for a Norwegian national suspected of financing the operation and abusing minors at the

Thai Police Bust Child Exploitation Ring at Rayong Boxing Camp
21h ago Khaosod

CHUMPHON — Thailand's Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD) arrested a 28-year-old man known as "Check" on 15 July 2026 under a Criminal Court warrant issued 7 July on charges of human trafficking for sexual exploitation of minors aged 15–18 and operating a prostitution-related business at a Muay Thai camp in Rayong province.

The ATPD, working with a multidisciplinary child rescue team and provincial social development officials, launched an undercover operation after receiving intelligence that minors at the camp were being exploited for commercial sexual purposes. Officers posing as prospective students found approximately 30 boxers, both male and female, ranging from under 18 to 35 years old, including Thai and foreign nationals.

During the sting, the suspect allegedly told undercover officers he could arrange minors for sexual services, claiming the children came from troubled backgrounds and needed money. He showed photographs and discussed prices, ultimately agreeing to provide three boys, aged 16, 15, and 13, at 3,000 baht each, with 1,000 baht for himself and 2,000 baht per child.

Officers arrested Check after he brought the three alleged victims to a resort in Chon Buri province; he later confessed during questioning. In a concurrent search of the boxing camp, investigators found 15 boys aged 11–19 without parental supervision. During interviews with child protection specialists, several children alleged that a Norwegian national using the alias "Mr. Kim" had financially supported the camp and was regularly given access to boys living there. Investigators are expanding their search to locate the Norwegian national and determine the full extent of exploitation at the facility.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

CIMB Bank Forecasts Thai GDP Growth Stuck Below 3%

CIMB Bank forecasts Thai GDP growth will remain stuck below 3% over the next 3-5 years unless structural economic reforms are implemented, with the research team recommending the government prioritize job creation over short-term cash distr

CIMB Bank Forecasts Thai GDP Growth Stuck Below 3%
21h ago Khaosod

CIMB Research is monitoring a new round of trade tensions and has submitted five economic recommendations to the Thai government, emphasizing the need for policies that create long-term jobs and income rather than short-term cash distribution.

Amornthep Javaala, Assistant Managing Director and head of CIMB Thai Bank's research division, revealed that Thai economy in Q3 2025 is showing more signs of brightening after passing through the year's weakest period in Q2. Positive factors stem from significantly lower oil prices and a temporary ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, though risks of renewed conflict remain. Thai exports are a critical support, and government measures are helping sustain purchasing power. The research team assesses that Thailand's economy will face growth risks of 2-2.5% over the next 3-5 years, with very little chance of returning to growth above 3% unless there is clearer economic structural reform. This presents a long-term problem for Thai economy if not addressed.

CIMB's five recommendations for Thai economy in Q3 2025 are:

1. Average oil price of $80 per barrel supports economic recovery. After oil prices surged past $100/barrel in Q2 before falling below $70/barrel in late June-early July, CIMB expects Q3 average prices around $80/barrel. While risks remain, this level supports Thai economic recovery.

2. Federal Reserve keeps rates at 3.75%; BOT maintains policy rate at 1%. CIMB believes US inflation will gradually ease with energy prices, and US inflation is not primarily demand-driven as rents and wages are not rising sharply. The Fed may not need to raise rates to combat inflation and will rebalance next year, while Thailand's central bank is likely to hold its policy rate at 1% due to cost-side inflation pressure rather than demand-side.

3. New trade war is the biggest risk for the second half. While energy tensions ease, new risks are shifting toward trade warfare. The US may revive Section 301 measures previously used against China, pressuring trading partners and creating new global trade volatility that could impact Thai exports.

4. Baht strengthens to 33.10 per dollar. GDP growth in 2025 may reach 2%, driven mainly by private investment rather than consumption. The baht is expected to strengthen to around 33.10 per dollar in Q3 from capital inflows and stable US interest rate trends.

5. Government must accelerate confidence-building policies. The government must build confidence, generate revenue, reduce budget deficits, maintain fiscal discipline, and avoid breaching the 70% debt-to-GDP ceiling within 2-3 years to preserve the country's credit rating. CIMB urges the government to focus on investments through public-private partnerships or new ventures that create jobs and long-term income for people, rather than short-term cash handouts. Past experience shows consumption tends to decline after such measures end, so the bank prefers policies that drive job creation, employment, and income generation.

Although the overall Q3 economy is improving, private consumption remains flat and income growth is slow while cost of living remains high.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Police

Brother Collects Sister's Body After Bangkok Fire, Grieves Loss

A man collected his sister's body after she was killed in a Bangkok beer hall fire; the 34-year-old from Surin was working in the capital to support their mother and her teenage son's education.

Brother Collects Sister's Body After Bangkok Fire, Grieves Loss
21h ago Khaosod

On July 15, 2025, Rong Sakdi Poksan, 36, collected his sister Sudarat Poksan's body from the Police Hospital's forensic institute to transport it home to Surin province for religious funeral rites. Sudarat, 34, was one of several victims killed in the Ladprao beer hall fire after suffering severe full-body burns.

Speaking through tears, Rong Sakdi said he had no idea his sister was visiting the entertainment venue that day. She had recently arrived in Bangkok seeking employment and had not disclosed her work plans. Normally a dutiful person, she had wanted to work to support their mother in another province and to help fund her son's education for a better future.

Rong Sakdi also revealed that before the tragedy, their mother in Surin experienced a premonition—suddenly hearing a voice calling at the house, though he was uncertain if it was his sister's voice, and this occurred before the fire broke out.

Regarding compensation, the brother stated that the bar and its associates have not yet contacted the family to discuss any settlement. He expressed uncertainty about reports that 10,000 baht in funeral assistance would be provided, saying he did not know how to respond to that amount.

"What the family is most concerned about now is our mother's mental and emotional state, and the future of the deceased woman's 15-year-old son who is still in school," he said. "As the older brother, I now have the responsibility to care for and raise my nephew."

He concluded by urging that such tragedies in entertainment venues never happen again, noting that Bangkok attractions have experienced similar devastating incidents multiple times in the past.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Restructures Electricity Pricing, Cuts First 200 Units to 3 Baht

Thailand's government capped residential electricity rates at 3 baht per unit for the first 200 units consumed, benefiting over 23 million households starting in August's billing cycle. The restructuring also opens renewable energy markets

Thailand Restructures Electricity Pricing, Cuts First 200 Units to 3 Baht
21h ago Khaosod

Energy Minister Eknath Prommaphand unveiled Thailand's sweeping electricity restructuring plan on July 15, 2025, at Government House, following a National Energy Policy Committee (NEPC) meeting presided over by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The committee approved a major price reduction measure for all residential households, capping the electricity rate at no more than 3 baht per unit for the first 200 units consumed. This initiative will reach over 23 million households, including renters and temporary residents, with implementation expected in August's billing cycle pending regulatory approval.

"We are not merely adjusting the FT rate quarterly, but completely restructuring the base electricity tariff," Prommaphand explained. "We are separating public electricity charges from the baseline rates to redirect the difference as a discount to consumers." The government also approved a new renewable energy policy by removing the previous 2,000-megawatt cap and industry restrictions on Direct PPA contracts, allowing all sectors to purchase clean electricity directly based on market competition rather than through traditional monopoly channels.

The ministry is redesigning Thailand's electricity system to limit state utilities to grid management only, while buyers and sellers negotiate directly according to market mechanisms. For data center operators—who consume significant power—the government is creating a separate classification to ensure electricity pricing reflects actual LNG import fuel costs without burdening residential users. Data center rates will be monitored to comply with environmental and water resource standards.

When asked whether data center electricity rates would reach 5–6 baht per unit, the energy minister noted that rates would reflect real LNG import costs under current market conditions and could fluctuate with global LNG price movements. The Energy Regulatory Commission will study the tariff structure for data centers, which is expected to be higher than other industrial and residential rates due to their high consumption. The committee also approved measures to address long-standing issues with private power purchase agreements, including reviewing the power purchase premium (Adder) previously set at 6.50–8 baht per unit.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

TOR Drafter Manas Says New Version More Advanced, Zips Lips

TOR drafter Manas Suwanrin claimed the new version is more advanced than the old one but refused to answer further questions, redirecting reporters to parliamentary officials for details.

TOR Drafter Manas Says New Version More Advanced, Zips Lips
21h ago Khaosod

On July 15, 2025, at the Department of Local Administration, Manas Suwanrin, deputy governor of Nakhon Ratchasima and the official who drafted the Territorial Organization Reform (TOR), arrived in the morning and quickly told waiting reporters: "I'm not commenting at this time." He said he was only here to provide information to a parliamentary committee and asked media to follow up with the committee instead.

Manas clarified he was not attending a meeting of the central committee overseeing local government civil service exams, but was simply passing through to head to parliament. He emphasized his silence on the matter and said he would only provide information to officials, while asking media to present information comprehensively. He avoided answering reporter questions, cracked jokes, and joked about eating durian.

Manas stated he only drafted the TOR and nothing else, and would only explain the parts he worked on. When asked if he could confirm the TOR has no loopholes, he exclaimed, "Wow, the TOR is more advanced than the old version," then raised his hand in a zipping-lips gesture and said: "Oops, I forgot I'm not talking. For information, please ask Rangsiman Rom, because otherwise there will be lots of drama to follow."

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Volleyball Chief Seeks Government Support for VNL 2027

Thai Volleyball Association president Sompon Isbangyaeng plans to seek government support for hosting the 2027 Volleyball Nations League, with Volleyball World interested in bringing weekly matches and potentially the championship round to

Thai Volleyball Chief Seeks Government Support for VNL 2027
21h ago Khaosod

Sompon Isbangyaeng, president of the Thai Volleyball Association, is preparing to meet with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to request support for hosting the VNL 2027 tournament. This initiative follows Thailand's women's volleyball team finishing 14th in the 2026 Women's Nations League. Sompon disclosed that Volleyball World is interested in having Thailand serve as host not only for regular weekly matches but also potentially for the championship round. He stated that next year the association will discuss the matter with the tourism and sports minister to secure government backing. Volleyball World has expressed confidence in Thailand's capabilities and is willing to designate Thailand as a host venue. Although the final decision on hosting the championship round still requires approval from multiple parties, Sompon expressed confidence that Thailand will secure at least one week of matches. He emphasized that Volleyball World is ready to give Thailand hosting rights and that Thais can look forward to watching the VNL in their country next year for at least one week.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Udom Sithiviratchatharm Elected New President of Constitutional Court

Udom Sithiviratchatharm was elected president of Thailand's Constitutional Court on July 15 following a vote by the court's judges.

Udom Sithiviratchatharm Elected New President of Constitutional Court
21h ago Khaosod

The Constitutional Court judges held a vote on July 15, 2026, to elect a new president. The Senate had approved Lieutenant General Chakrapong Vivatvanich to serve as a Constitutional Court judge at its 24th meeting on June 23, 2026, and the Constitutional Court Office arranged for him to meet with the seven sitting judges—Udom Sithiviratchatharm, Virul Sangtian, Chiraniti Hawanont, Naphadol Tepphitthak, Banjongsak Wongprachaya, Udom Ruttamrit, Sumet Roikuldcharoen, and Sarawut Songsiwilai—to elect a new president. The meeting voted to appoint Udom Sithiviratchatharm, a Constitutional Court judge, as the new president of the Constitutional Court. The Constitutional Court Office will issue a letter notifying the Senate Secretariat of the election result so that all necessary legal procedures may be completed.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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