Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Lawyer Submits Senate Election-Rigging Evidence to Prosecutors

A lawyer submitted evidence of alleged senate election-rigging to opposition MPs at parliament on July 27, urging prosecutors to fast-track the case to the Constitutional Court rather than wait for the Election Commission's 2-3 month review

Lawyer Submits Senate Election-Rigging Evidence to Prosecutors
27 Jul Khaosod

On July 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM at parliament, lawyer Pattarapong Shuphaksa (known as Anun from Buriram) submitted a formal letter with evidence regarding alleged senate election-rigging to opposition MPs Phanida Mongkolswat of Samut Prakan and Phanditl Nuamchai of Bangkok, both from the opposition party.

Anun stated that the opposition party has partnered with civil society, nationwide senate candidates, and reserve senators to gather evidence of election-rigging and make it public. The case is currently under review by the Election Commission to determine whether it will be referred to the Supreme Court. He noted that the party had not been willing to take action on this matter previously, but now both sides agree that there is sufficient, linked evidence showing the conduct of the election-rigging group may constitute an attempt to overthrow democratic governance under the constitution or threaten national security under the criminal code.

Anun expressed concern that waiting for the Election Commission's decision over the next 2-3 months could be too slow. He proposed instead submitting the case to the Office of the Attorney-General to refer it to the Constitutional Court, seeking action against all those involved—from government officials to senators to civilians—under Article 49 of the constitution, or filing security-related complaints with investigators.

Anun also announced he has drafted a petition under Article 157 to hold the Election Commission accountable, to be made public on July 31.

Opposition MP Phanida acknowledged the submission and said the party would study all attached materials to determine next steps. She called on the public to pressure the Election Commission, noting that only the commission has the authority to refer election cases to court. She stated the opposition would pursue the matter fully using evidence already submitted to the Election Commission and the DSI.

Phanida appealed to all witnesses with evidence, photos, or videos related to the alleged rigging to come forward, expressing concern the case may not receive fair treatment. She noted the Election Commission must rule by September, though rumors suggest a vote may occur in early August, so the opposition is racing against time.

MP Phanditl addressed efforts to silence civil society, though his complete remarks were cut off in the original text.

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Police

Massage Therapist Escapes Attempted Rape After Claiming HIV Status

A massage therapist in Ko Lanta escaped an attempted sexual assault on July 20 after claiming to have HIV, prompting her to file a police report a week later with CCTV footage identifying the suspect.

Massage Therapist Escapes Attempted Rape After Claiming HIV Status
27 Jul Khaosod

A massage therapist identified as Khun B reported an attempted sexual assault to police on July 27, 2026. The incident occurred on July 20 at 10 p.m. when a man aged 30–35 booked a massage appointment through a mobile app. After the therapist showed him to her private massage room on the second floor, the man feigned a need to charge his dead phone battery. When she pointed to the charger near her vanity, she noticed the battery was at 74%, exposing his deception. As she turned to leave, the man suddenly drew a 7-inch kitchen knife from his waist, held it to her throat, and demanded she remove her clothes.

The therapist quickly invented a story, claiming she had HIV and had recently given birth to a child not yet one month old, demanding he use protection. While talking to distract him, she managed to escape when the attacker briefly lowered his guard. She ran from the room and locked the door behind her, then rushed downstairs and threw a red piggy bank at the fleeing attacker before calling for help from people below.

CCTV footage from 10:42 p.m. on July 20 shows a man in a white t-shirt and black shorts entering the building with the victim. A second clip at 10:49 p.m. shows the same man fleeing down the stairs while the victim chased behind him, shouting for help. The therapist reported the incident as a cautionary tale for others in her profession and requested police apprehend the suspect to prevent future attacks.

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National

Cabinet Approves Five Regional Education Officials

The Cabinet has approved five civil servants to regional education officer positions to oversee education strategies across provincial clusters, with one candidate rejected for insufficient job tenure in their previous role.

Cabinet Approves Five Regional Education Officials
27 Jul Khaosod

On July 27, 2025, Education Minister Prasert Chantharangthong announced that the Cabinet has approved the appointment of five civil servants to senior regional education positions (Ed-Thai Regional) to implement education strategies and development plans across provincial clusters efficiently and in line with overall provincial development goals.

The five appointees are: Thatchakorn Vongpeng, promoted from Deputy Regional Education Officer (Region 3) to Regional Education Officer (Region 5); Samnakarnn Bunruang, promoted from Deputy Officer (Region 13) to Regional Officer (Region 7); Thanaphat Sangjun, promoted from Deputy Officer (Region 2) to Regional Officer (Region 8); Nirutt Botramsanlee, promoted from Deputy Officer (Region 10) to Regional Officer (Region 10); and Ekavat Losunirun, Assistant Secretary of the Education Council, appointed to Regional Officer (Region 15).

Prasert explained that only five positions were approved because one candidate lacked sufficient qualifications, particularly insufficient tenure in the previous position level. He stressed there are no internal conflicts and the process was transparent and fair. The remaining seven vacant positions will be filled gradually.

Prasert clarified that these are existing positions with budgets already allocated, not newly created posts. He emphasized the roles are open to civil servants from all agencies and do not duplicate responsibilities of educational zones or inspectorates. Regional education officers set overall education strategy for provincial clusters, while zones handle school administration and monitoring, and inspectors conduct field audits.

Regarding the Level 11 appointments to replace retiring officials, including the new Permanent Secretary of Education and the Secretary of the Vocational Education Commission, Prasert said these are still under careful review and will be submitted to Cabinet consideration in August.

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Regional

Phuket Authorities Inspect Chabad House Over Licensing and Fundraising

Phuket authorities inspected the Chabad House in Patong on Sunday to verify compliance with Thai law regarding its licenses, fundraising activities and religious operations. Officials examined the building's permits, donation boxes and owne

Phuket Authorities Inspect Chabad House Over Licensing and Fundraising
27 Jul Khaosod

PHUKET — Phuket authorities inspected the Chabad House in Patong on Sunday, examining its licenses, fundraising activities, religious use and ownership structure, while emphasizing that the operation was intended to ensure compliance with Thai law without infringing on religious freedom.

The inspection on 26 July was led by Phuket Vice Governor Khettarat Chansilp, with officers from the provincial police, the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), local administrative bodies and other agencies.

Officals said the building is licensed for use as a restaurant and club. It includes a dining area with the required food establishment registration and a Type 2 liquor license, as well as spaces used for Jewish religious services, banquet functions, accommodation for religious leaders and rooftop activities.

During the inspection, authorities found donation boxes inside the building. The site's caretaker told officials that the funds are used for charitable activities. Relevant agencies have been tasked with determining whether the fundraising complies with Thai law.

Officals also confirmed that the premises are used for Jewish religious ceremonies. They said Thailand's Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, provided religious activities comply with the law and do not threaten national security, public safety or public order.

The province has also ordered an investigation into land ownership and the shareholder structure of entities linked to the property. Authorities said they will examine whether there is evidence of illegal land ownership, nominee shareholding arrangements or other violations. Legal action will be taken if any offenses are found.

Phuket authorities said the inspection is part of broader efforts to ensure businesses and organizations operate within the law while protecting the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution. They added that the same legal standards will be applied equally to all establishments.

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National

Thailand's Manufacturing Index Shrinks 3.1% in June

Thailand's manufacturing output contracted 3.1% year-over-year in June, with weakness in automotive and petroleum sectors offset by strong domestic demand for consumer goods and stimulus-driven consumption.

Thailand's Manufacturing Index Shrinks 3.1% in June
27 Jul Khaosod

The Office of Industrial Economics (OIE) announced on July 27, 2024, that June's Manufacturing Production Index stood at 94.99, a 3.1% contraction from the same period last year, with production capacity utilization at 57.61%. The second quarter of 2024 registered 95.96, down 1.79%, primarily due to weakness in automotive and petroleum industries compounded by prolonged Middle East tensions, which have created volatility in energy prices and shipping costs.

However, the index retained support from recovering domestic demand, particularly in consumer and essential goods such as sugar, cleaning products, soap, and cosmetics, buoyed by government stimulus measures under the Thai Help Thai Plus program. Industries responding to changing consumer behavior also performed well, including pet food manufacturing driven by the trend of treating pets as family members, and prepared food products aligned with urban lifestyles. The textile industry also received a boost from the FIFA World Cup, increasing demand for sportswear.

For July 2024, the MPI outlook appears normal despite renewed Middle East tensions affecting production costs, shipping, and international trade. Thai industry is expected to benefit from domestic stimulus programs continuing to drive consumption. Officials warned of risks from the prolonged Middle East conflict and uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariff policies, while noting positive demand for electronics and technology-related products.

Manufacturers are advised to strengthen supply chain risk management by diversifying raw material sources and export markets, reducing dependence on any single country or region. Recommendations include using forward contracts to manage costs, improving production efficiency and energy use, promoting renewable and biomass energy, adopting digital technology and AI to reduce waste, and developing workforce skills.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Phuket Finds Eight Cases in Jet-Ski Crackdown

PHUKET: Phuket officials have reported finding eight “cases” in the latest phase of the ongoing campaign against illegal jet-ski operations, but have released few details about what was actually uncovered.

Phuket Finds Eight Cases in Jet-Ski Crackdown
27 Jul The Phuket News

PHUKET: Phuket officials have reported finding eight “cases” in the latest phase of the ongoing campaign against illegal jet-ski operations, but have released few details about what was actually uncovered.

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National

Denmark's EV Market Booming, Opens Door for Thai Auto Exporters

Denmark's electric vehicle market surged to nearly 80% of new car sales in early 2025, prompting Thailand's trade promotion agency to push Thai automotive component manufacturers and clean energy firms to capitalize on expanding Nordic expo

Denmark's EV Market Booming, Opens Door for Thai Auto Exporters
27 Jul Khaosod

The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) reports that Denmark's electric vehicle (EV) market is growing steadily, with nearly 80% of newly registered cars in the first half of 2025 being EVs, opening significant opportunities for Thai manufacturers to export automotive components and electronics while expanding cooperation in clean energy, charging technology, and smart software systems.

On July 27, 2025, Sunanta Kangwalkulgij, director-general of the DITP under the Ministry of Commerce, announced that she has instructed commercial attachés stationed worldwide to accelerate the expansion of Thai products and services in line with Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthammapun's policy. The ministry recently received a market assessment report from Nichaporn Wannaphruk, director of the Trade Promotion Office in Copenhagen, Denmark, detailing the EV market opportunity and prospects for exporting automotive components and partnering in clean energy services, charging technology, and intelligent software systems.

According to the commercial attaché's findings, Denmark is clearly entering an era of energy and transportation transformation. Data from Mobility Denmark shows that in the first half of 2025, 79.9% of newly registered vehicles in Denmark—nearly four out of every five cars—were electric vehicles, reflecting significant changes in consumer behavior and Denmark's success in advancing its greenhouse gas reduction targets and green transition policy.

During January–June 2025, Denmark recorded total new car sales of 101,032 vehicles, a 12.9% increase compared to the same period last year, while EV sales surged by 41.2% compared to the first half of 2024, demonstrating that the EV market has become a crucial driver of the nation's automotive industry.

Mobility Denmark executives emphasized that EV growth is vital to achieving Denmark's long-term climate goals. Consumer adoption of EVs has been fueled by multiple factors, including rising fuel prices driven by Middle Eastern tensions, particularly between Iran and the United States, which has increased operating costs for gasoline and diesel vehicles. This has prompted many consumers to view electric vehicles as a more economical long-term option. Competition among automakers' financing offers and favorable credit terms have also become key purchase decision factors.

The most popular EV models in Denmark this year include the Skoda Elroq with over 5,065 registrations, followed by the Toyota bZ4X and Tesla Model Y. Notably, all ten best-selling vehicles in the first half of 2025 were electric, reflecting Denmark's automotive market reaching a critical turning point where EVs have become the new consumer standard rather than a mere alternative. This trend mirrors broader developments across Nordic countries, which prioritize reducing fossil fuel dependence, supporting clean technology, and promoting sustainable consumer behavior aligned with sustainability policies. Demand for electric vehicles and related technologies is expected to continue rising.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

XPeng Expands Parts Warehouse to Support EV Growth

XPeng has partnered with TVS SCS Logistics to nearly triple its parts warehouse capacity in Thailand, expanding from 1,000 to 3,000 square meters to support faster repairs and better after-sales service as the EV maker ramps up operations.

XPeng Expands Parts Warehouse to Support EV Growth
27 Jul Khaosod

XPeng has joined forces with TVS SCS Logistics Management to expand its strategic parts storage facility and elevate after-sales service quality in preparation for electric vehicle growth. Vivat Kijkrua, XPeng Thailand's after-sales director, stated that the partnership agreement with the supply chain management leader marks an important milestone in building long-term customer confidence through efficient parts warehouse management and handling systems. The collaboration supports the company's vision of building trust before growth, with after-sales service recognized as a lifelong customer experience.

The partnership operates under three pillars of Aftersales Excellence to deliver superior service and optimal customer experience: Space expands parts storage area for greater efficiency and capacity across all electric vehicle component dimensions; SKU increases the number of stored parts inventory to cover all current XPeng models and accommodate future vehicle launches; and Speed improves delivery velocity of parts to dealers and business partners nationwide with precision and responsiveness.

XPeng Thailand has simultaneously established after-sales service foundations to standardize service quality nationwide and support long-term brand growth, meeting modern consumers' expectations for after-sales care alongside performance and AI technology, including:

PDI Center emphasizes quality from the start before customer delivery through comprehensive Pre-Delivery Inspection covering electrical systems, batteries, software, ADAS, charging systems, and interior and exterior vehicle quality to ensure customers receive fully prepared vehicles from day one.

Parts Warehouse, the heart of after-sales service, has expanded storage space nearly threefold from 1,000 to 3,000 square meters and increased SKU inventory from approximately 2,000 to over 6,000 items, aiming not just to stock more parts but to reduce repair time and get customers back on the road faster.

Body & Paint Center develops repair standards specifically for electric vehicles. XPeng Thailand partnered with MMS Body & Paint to create a paint and body shop designed exclusively for electric vehicles, equipped with specialized tools, work areas supporting high-voltage battery systems, and technicians trained to XPeng standards, with all procedures meeting manufacturer specifications to ensure quality and safety confidence.

Technical Training recognizes personnel as the heart of service. XPeng, an AI and innovation-driven brand, prioritizes developing technician and consultant skills as a core service pillar.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Deputy PM Meets Political Mentor Tonight to Defuse Coalition Tensions

Deputy PM Pipat Ratchakitprakarn denied coalition tensions Tuesday, blaming unnamed sources for spreading discord rumors and announcing a joint public appearance with the party's political mentor in Nakhon Si Thammarat on July 31 to demonst

Deputy PM Meets Political Mentor Tonight to Defuse Coalition Tensions
27 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, speaking as a Bhumjaithai Party leader on July 27 at Government House, addressed recent rumors of disagreement between two senior coalition figures. He said there were attempts to create division by someone unknown, but insisted that meetings occur every week before cabinet sessions and parliamentary joint sessions. He urged the public not to worry about himself, the Prime Minister, or party leadership, calling them a unified political party and attributing the discord narrative to ill-wishers.

When asked if the conflict could destabilize the government, Pipat said he was unsure due to involvement of other coalition partners, but confirmed no problems within Bhumjaithai itself. He noted rumors of discrediting between the two figures had circulated for 2–3 days. To counter this narrative, Pipat and the party's political mentor will make merit together in Nakhon Si Thammarat on July 31, and attend a friendly football match between Buriram and Pattani provinces on August 1—which Pipat presented as factual evidence of their cooperation.

Pipat said he did not know the source of the attacks, noting that most come from avatar accounts of unknown origin and are difficult to trace. He has reported the matter to the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society and the Technology Crime Investigation Division. When asked about the party's respected political mentor and whether attacks could shake government stability, Pipat explained that the mentor gathers information and offers political advice to new ministers, as politics is complex and requires expert guidance. He said he and the mentor had not yet spoken directly, only by phone, and would meet this evening.

Asked whether the mentor advised on allegations that several Bhumjaithai leaders were linked to a parliamentary scandal, Pipat said his name had not appeared before but does now, leaving him confused. He denied any involvement and noted that allegations about his daughter, a company employee with no political role, were unfounded. He said he would consult legal advisors about possible action and called for more careful speech: "When you speak, you should filter your words. Don't say whatever comes to mind or whatever someone whispers to you, because that causes damage. I can bear criticism since I hold a position that must, but words should be chosen wisely."

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

Police Hunt Suspect Vehicle in Drug Smuggling Case

Police are hunting a white Honda City sedan linked to a drug smuggling case involving a 28-year-old Thai woman arrested at Fukuoka Airport in Japan with methamphetamine hidden in coffee packets.

Police Hunt Suspect Vehicle in Drug Smuggling Case
27 Jul Khaosod

At 10:00 a.m. on July 27, 2025, Thanasak (surname withheld), 53, father of Ms. Chutathip (surname withheld), 28, a defendant in a methamphetamine smuggling case arrested at Fukuoka Airport in Japan, came to give an additional statement to investigators at Bangbuathong Police Station.

After his daughter lost all contact during her trip to Japan, the family received notice from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that she had been arrested by Japanese police on drug charges. The father insists his daughter has no criminal history and believes she fell victim to a drug smuggling gang.

Thanasak explained that the incident occurred after his daughter left the country on July 10. On July 22, the family received notification that she had been detained by Japanese authorities after methamphetamine was found hidden inside a parcel labeled as coffee packets. Since then, the family has been unable to contact her or receive further information from consular officials.

Previously, his daughter had worked buying secondhand goods and took jobs as a courier between Thailand and Japan for over a year, finding work through online groups. She had always been checked before boarding. However, this time the package she received was supposedly pre-sealed coffee, preventing her from opening it to inspect contents. The father believes she was tricked into becoming a drug mule without knowing.

The father expressed deep concern for his daughter's wellbeing and safety, having been unable to contact anyone. He filed a report with Bangbuathong Police Station for assistance in coordinating with Japanese authorities. During the interview, Thanasak became dizzy and had to stop the questioning to provide additional information to police officers.

Investigators have obtained crucial CCTV footage showing a white Honda City sedan with Bangkok license plates entering the woman's neighborhood on July 10 at approximately 21:11 and leaving at 21:23—about 20 minutes. Authorities suspect this vehicle delivered the methamphetamine and are accelerating their search for it.

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Police

Chinese Fraud Ring Busted Operating Hidden Card-Skimming Stores

Thai police dismantled a fraud ring operating disguised as dried fruit shops in Chiang Mai and Bangkok, where staff used hidden card readers to skim data from 1,200 Chinese tourists' UnionPay cards, causing losses of nearly 29 million baht.

Chinese Fraud Ring Busted Operating Hidden Card-Skimming Stores
27 Jul Khaosod

On July 27, 2025, Thai police announced the successful takedown of Operation Card Shield, a major credit card fraud network targeting Chinese tourists. The gang operated three dried fruit shops in Chiang Mai and Bangkok as fronts while skimming customer card data through hidden readers installed at checkout counters. Over 1,200 Chinese visitors fell victim to the scheme, suffering combined losses of around 29 million baht (6 million yuan).

Police identified four key suspects: Chao Ji (42, Chinese national), Salini (33, Thai), Chittra (32, Thai), and Theeraphut (32, Thai), who jointly registered and operated the businesses. Investigators discovered that shop staff were instructed to swipe UnionPay cards twice—first through hidden card readers at the point of sale to capture data, then through standard payment terminals. Staff deceived customers by claiming the first swipe activated a 32% promotional discount. During raids on six locations on July 22, authorities seized 11 magnetic card readers, 3 EDC machines, 5 computers, 18 IP cameras with servers, and numerous other pieces of evidence.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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