Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Luxury Home Burglarized, Safe Ripped Out, Designer Bags Stolen

Burglars stole luxury designer handbags, a safe, and valuables worth millions of baht from a home in Prachuap Khiri Khan province on August 9, with police investigating CCTV footage and seeking public tips.

Luxury Home Burglarized, Safe Ripped Out, Designer Bags Stolen
9 Aug Khaosod

On August 9, 2025, burglars broke into a luxury home in Wang Phong subdistrict, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, belonging to Karachwal (surname withheld) and her foreign business owner husband. The thieves took advantage of the owners' absence and escaped with property valued at several million baht.

The break-in was discovered when the household caretaker arrived and found signs of forced entry around the bathroom door and a cut window screen, indicating the burglars' entry point. Inside the home, investigators found that a wall-mounted safe had been pried open and entirely removed.

Stolen items include 14 luxury designer handbags: a red Louis Vuitton pouch, blue Gucci Marmont top handle (code 547260DT), cream Gucci Marmont bucket (code 575163DTDRT-9022), Louis Vuitton Monogram Giant Neverfull (UBT110823), MCM orange-brown shopper, black tote, gold Chanel (code AS1160B03954N8473), Christian Dior Lady Dior, and several Louis Vuitton pieces. Also missing are important documents including land titles, vehicle registration booklets, cash, passports (two German, one Thai), gold ornaments, luxury watches, and house keys.

The victim filed a complaint with Prachuap Police on August 7. Investigators are collecting fingerprint evidence and reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area to track down the perpetrators. The homeowner is offering a substantial reward for any information leading to arrests and recovery of the stolen property, and is urging the public, local businesses, pawnshops, and second-hand designer bag dealers to report any suspicious activity or attempts to sell items matching the stolen inventory.

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National

Transport Ministry Upgrades Udon Thani Rail System for Year-End Expo

Thailand's Transport Ministry is building a temporary railway platform and two level crossings near Udon Thani to handle increased train traffic during the World Horticultural Expo, scheduled to run from November 2024 to March 2025.

Transport Ministry Upgrades Udon Thani Rail System for Year-End Expo
9 Aug Khaosod

The Transport Ministry is accelerating rail system improvements in Udon Thani to support the World Horticultural Expo scheduled for late 2024. Pichete Kunatham, director-general of the State Railway Department, announced on August 9 that construction will begin on a temporary railway platform measuring 1.10 meters high and approximately 200 meters long to accommodate visitors arriving by train. Two level crossings will be built between Udon Thani and Na Phu stations, including one at kilometer 574+725.25 (approximately 23 meters wide) dedicated to expo project vehicles, and another at kilometer 574+815.25 (approximately 20 meters wide) serving as an entry and exit point for visitors. The State Railway of Thailand is currently in the competitive bidding process using funds from Udon Thani's central budget, with construction expected to start by end of August 2024 and be completed by October 2024. Railway staff will manage safety and control traffic at both crossing points.

The World Horticultural Expo of Udon Thani Province will run from November 1, 2024 to March 14, 2025 at the Nong Daeng wetland area in Kud Sra subdistrict, Mueang district, covering more than 1,030 acres under the theme "Diversity of Life: Connecting People, Water and Plants for Sustainable Living." The event represents an important opportunity to showcase Udon Thani's potential as an economic, tourism, and transportation hub for the upper northeastern region.

Kunatham emphasized that the rail system will play a crucial role in accommodating travelers from across the country and connecting neighboring provinces and countries. The State Railway Department is coordinating with relevant agencies to advance rail infrastructure development in line with government and ministry policies, aiming to make the expo accessible and safe while enhancing the rail network as the country's primary transport system to support logistics, tourism, and economic competitiveness.

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Community

Sacred Amulets and Coins: Guide to Revered Buddhist Talismans

Thai Buddhist amulets and coins from revered monks remain highly coveted by collectors, with notable examples including the "Naga Leaf Amulet" from Luang Pho Ngern Thammapanyo depicting a seven-headed serpent and rare coins minted by master

Sacred Amulets and Coins: Guide to Revered Buddhist Talismans
9 Aug Khaosod

A comprehensive overview of highly sought-after Buddhist amulets and coins from renowned monks across Thailand. Featured items include the famous "Naga Leaf Amulet" created by Luang Pho Ngern Thammapanyo, former abbot of Molee Lokayaram Temple in Bangkok, which measures 0.5 by 1.4 centimeters and depicts a seven-headed serpent beneath a seated Buddha in meditation pose, representing Lop Buri period Buddhist art. The article also covers coins from Luang Pho Obhasi of Wat Phutthabusya in Bangkok, minted in 1953 in four materials including gold, silver, and copper, and discusses rare amulets from other venerated masters such as Luang Pu Khai Intra Saro and Luang Pu Bunyami of Wat Wapi Rattanaram in Nakhon Sawan province, whose Saturday fifth coin from 2010 remains popular among collectors.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Community

Revered Abbot Luang Pu Plien of Wat Tai Kanchanaburi

Luang Pu Plien, a revered abbot of Wat Tai in Kanchanaburi province, served as the temple's leader and provincial ecclesiastical administrator while gaining renown for his spiritual authority and role in major Buddhist ceremonies during the

Revered Abbot Luang Pu Plien of Wat Tai Kanchanaburi
9 Aug Khaosod

Phra Wisutthirangsi, known locally in Kanchanaburi and among amulet collectors as Luang Pu Plien Inthasoro or Luang Pu Wat Tai, was the former abbot of Wat Tai (officially Wat Chaiyachumpol Chanasokhram) in Ban Tai subdistrict, Mueang district, Kanchanaburi province. Beyond his academic credentials, he was a senior and revered elder monk who served as provincial ecclesiastical administrator of Kanchanaburi. Born on Saturday, May 2405 BE (April 5, 1862) as Thongkham to parents Muanintaraksa and Nang Jeeb Poolsawat, he was known in his youth as "Thongdam" due to his short stature and dark complexion. Concerned about his future, his parents enrolled him at Wat Tai as a student of Phra Kru Wisutthirangsi (Luang Pu Chang), the respected abbot and provincial ecclesiastical administrator of the time. Upon arrival at the monastery, his behavior transformed—he became calm, composed, and virtuous, prompting his father to rename him "Plien."

When he came of age, he was ordained at Wat Tai with Luang Pu Chang as his preceptor and two other distinguished monks as witnesses. He received the monastic name "Inthasoro," traditionally given to those born on Sunday, as his preceptor believed a Saturday-born person already possessed inherent strength and a Sunday name would balance this nature. Though initially intending to remain a monk for only seven days, he remained in robes for life. He devoted himself to studying both Khmer and Thai scriptures and adhered strictly to Buddhist discipline. He excelled in all learning and became the preceptor's favored disciple, eventually serving as his heir apparent.

Upon Luang Pu Chang's death, Plien was appointed successor abbot and received the ecclesiastical rank of Phra Kru Wisutthirangsi. He developed the monastery extensively, advanced education in both Buddhist studies and secular subjects, and established Wisutthirangsi School as the provincial monastery school. He assisted in developing numerous temples throughout Kanchanaburi and was appointed provincial ecclesiastical administrator. During the reign of Rama VI, he was elevated to the rank of Phra Racha Khana (Royal Sangha rank) and received a ceremonial title from the Supreme Patriarch, becoming Phra Wisutthirangsi Chinasanasophi.

He gained renown during the Indochina War period, known to possess powerful spiritual force—even notorious bandits held him in reverence. His involvement was sought for numerous consecrations and Buddhist rites, including important royal ceremonies such as the cremation of Rama V and the coronation of Rama VI. He had many accomplished disciples, notably Phra Thepmonkhonrangsi (Luang Pu Di) of Wat Nuea, Kanchanaburi, and Phra Thepwattanavimol (Luang Pu Chiang) of Wat Charoensuttharam, Samut Songkhram. In his advanced years, at approximately 85 years old, he suffered from ailments of old age beginning July 1946. Despite medical treatment from both modern and traditional practitioners, his condition gradually declined until his peaceful death on Friday, April 4, 1947, at 9:25 a.m., at the age of 85, with 64 years of monastic ordination. The royal cremation ceremony took place in late 1947 BE. His amulets remain highly sought after, particularly his portrait medallions from the first edition.

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National

PM Announces 20 Million Baht Medical Fund for Ranong Hospital

Prime Minister Anuthins Charnveerakul announced a 20 million baht medical fund for Ranong Hospital during a merit-making ceremony on August 9, with strict oversight to ensure all donations purchase medical equipment for the region's healthc

PM Announces 20 Million Baht Medical Fund for Ranong Hospital
9 Aug Khaosod

On August 9, 2025, Prime Minister Anuthins Charnveerakul and Interior Minister presided over a merit-making ceremony at Ranong Hospital to raise funds for medical equipment purchases. The 20 million baht in donations came from individuals, private sector, and government agencies, aimed at acquiring necessary medical devices to enhance healthcare services in Ranong and neighboring provinces with quality, speed, and safety.

The ceremony also commemorated the 99th birthday celebration of the Supreme Sangha Council. Over 1,000 people attended the event, led by senior monks including the provincial abbot.

Prime Minister Anuthins emphasized that the funds serve as an investment for Ranong's residents themselves, ensuring better medical care for the community. He instructed all relevant officials—hospital director, provincial health officer, and provincial governor—to guarantee that 100 percent of the 20 million baht goes exclusively toward medical equipment with no exceptions. He demanded clear receipts for every transaction and strictly prohibited any misuse of funds, stating he would personally monitor every aspect to ensure the money stays in Ranong for genuine medical purposes.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Police

Police Reveal Multiple Factors Behind School Shooting in Nonthaburi

Police identified multiple contributing factors to a shooting at Thepsirintr School in Nonthaburi, including family problems, peer conflicts, and prolonged exposure to violent online content, with the suspect having no firearms training or

Police Reveal Multiple Factors Behind School Shooting in Nonthaburi
9 Aug Khaosod

Deputy Police Region 1 Commander Pol.Lt.Col. Atthapol Anusit revealed that the shooting at Thepsirintr School in Nonthaburi stemmed from multiple contributing factors, with no history of firearms training or psychiatric care. On August 9, 2026, at Plaibang Police Station in Nonthaburi, investigators briefed on the case over approximately one hour. Investigators have questioned 17 witnesses and submitted physical evidence—the firearm, ammunition casings, mobile phone, and computer—for forensic analysis, with further investigation ongoing on all relevant points.

Investigators found the incident resulted from a combination of factors including family problems from parental separation, school-related issues, peer conflicts, and prolonged exposure to violent social media content and crime-related material over one to two years. The suspect ordered a BB gun online and had no prior firearms training or psychiatric treatment. Police emphasized that parents and teachers must closely monitor children's behavior and secure firearms at home. Additional checkpoints and patrols around schools will be implemented, and authorities appealed to media and the public to refrain from sharing violent images or clips to protect those affected.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Pumps 5.8 Billion Baht Into Industrial Future

Thailand is investing 5.8 billion baht to strengthen the Industrial Economics Office's role in shaping industrial policy and driving growth in advanced sectors including electric vehicles, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence through

Thailand Pumps 5.8 Billion Baht Into Industrial Future
9 Aug Khaosod

Industry Minister Weerawut Silapachaya announced a 5.8 billion baht injection into the Industrial Economics Office (IEO) following an inspection visit where he outlined new policy directives. He assigned the IEO to strengthen its role as the "think tank" and "policy driver" for the Ministry of Industry, utilizing data analysis and forecasting to shape policies, plans, and strategies that align the industrial sector with economic, technological, and investment shifts.

The rollout requires coordination between government agencies, the private sector, and network institutions, with input from the public and business operators to develop measures, reform laws, and implement concrete policies aligned with the ONE MIND 4-pillar framework. The goal is to enhance business potential, increase competitiveness, and establish a foundation for stable, sustainable Thai industrial growth.

IEO Director Suphakij Bunsiri stated that the office will drive the ONE MIND policy alongside the S-Curve industrial development plan, targeting growth in modern vehicles, biotechnology, electrical and electronics, food, robotics and automation, comprehensive medical industry, digital and artificial intelligence, smart electronics, and security sectors. Coordination will link technology, personnel, infrastructure, and investment incentives through cooperation between public agencies, the private sector, and networks. The fiscal year 2569 integrated industrial and services development program commands a total budget of 5,884.18 million baht covering 49 projects from 14 agencies.

Previous results show that electric vehicle and new energy vehicle (xEV) production in 2568 reached 284,679 units, a 50% increase from the previous year. Automation system investments approved by the CoRE committee between 2563–2569 totaled 22,621.69 million baht, and during 2567–2569, workforce training in target industries for modern technology reached 89,267 people.

Suphakij added that the IEO will next accelerate industrial index updates to match changing production structures and cover emerging industries, providing accurate data for government policy and industrial development direction. It will also promote new potential industries including medical devices, defense, and halal sectors to establish new production bases, reduce import dependence, and expand Thai products into regional and global markets. The S-Curve industrial development plan concludes in 2570, so the IEO is currently reviewing and preparing a new development plan to address changing industrial context and will present it to the Cabinet for consideration.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Ex-Senate Candidate Exposes Paid Campaign Scheme Linked to Phiphat

Former Senate candidates revealed a paid recruitment scheme involving disqualified husband-and-wife pairs filing simultaneously, with allegations linking payments to a senator in Region Four's 2567 Senate election.

Ex-Senate Candidate Exposes Paid Campaign Scheme Linked to Phiphat
9 Aug Khaosod

On August 9, 2025, at Parliament, the opposition coalition coordinating committee led by Prisat Watcharasinthu, a Pheu Thai list MP, held a deep-dive investigation into evidence of Senate fraud in region four, involving financial networks and connections. Present were Panida Mongkolsawat (Samut Prakan MP, Pheu Thai), Yingchip Atchanon (Internet for Legal Justice Project director), and Bunyanucha Matthuchak to exchange views. Witnesses also attended, including retired Colonel Bannyat Piersawat (lawyer Krit), a former group-two Senate candidate from Phetchaburi; Panya Thapisa, a former Senate candidate from Nongbua Lamphu; and Montri Chiablaem, a former Senate candidate from Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Retired Colonel Bannyat stated that the Senate recruitment found candidates with disqualifying characteristics—husband-and-wife pairs filing simultaneously. He reported four such couples to the Election Commission on June 15, 2567, but received no update. After filing with police and petitioning Phetchaburi court, the court rejected the case, ruling he was not the injured party and required clear evidence of personal harm. The Election Commission later replied that only the second-filing spouse violates the law under a Supreme Court ruling, a decision Bannyat disputes as distinguishable from his case, but the EC deemed its ruling non-administrative and final.

Panya stated he was recruited into the scheme to find candidates at 5,000 baht per person, later discovering a former group-eight Nongbua Lamphu Senate candidate was the money source. He recruited about 20 villagers but withdrew after learning of higher-level involvement. He recounted hearing that 80,000 baht was distributed at a restaurant near Nongbua Lamphu Hospital, with 2,000 baht paid per candidate, and four payment lines operated in the province. Panya called on Senator Wuttichai Kalyanamitr to explain whether he directed these operations and detail the financial flows, noting some transfers were bank-based and others cash.

Montri Chiablaem, a former Nakhon Si Thammarat Senate candidate, urged others victimized likewise not to fear, stating they suffered in an election lacking integrity and fairness.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Police

School Denies Bullying Claims as Evidence Remains Unclear

Khon Kaen Witthayanon School denies bullying allegations against a Grade 12 student, citing unclear evidence and conflicting accounts despite social media claims of extortion and cigarette burns. The school says it cannot determine fault wi

School Denies Bullying Claims as Evidence Remains Unclear
9 Aug Khaosod

Khon Kaen Witthayanon School has issued a statement regarding allegations that a Grade 12 student was bullied, extorted for money, and burned with a lit cigarette. The school says the accused student has provided unclear information, while the other student denies the allegations, making it impossible to determine fault.

Social media across Khon Kaen province circulated images showing a Grade 12 student from a local school allegedly being systematically bullied, having money extorted, and being assaulted with a lit cigarette. Parents sought help, and public attention turned to how the school was handling the case.

In its latest statement, Khon Kaen Witthayanon School said the incident occurred at the beginning of the previous academic term. The school emphasized its highest priority on student safety, wellbeing, and welfare. Upon learning of the allegations, the school immediately investigated, interviewed students involved, and invited parents to discuss appropriate solutions.

Preliminary findings indicated the incident stemmed from a debt dispute and loan between students, with some chat evidence available. However, regarding the allegation of using a lit cigarette to cause injury, the school stated that the accused provided unclear information while the other student denied involvement. Therefore, the school cannot yet conclusively determine the facts or assign fault without a thorough investigation.

The school invited all parties—students and parents—for discussions to improve understanding and resolve matters within the school's authority. Parents may file a police report if they wish to pursue legal action. Khon Kaen Witthayanon School pledged to closely monitor the involved students and implement serious preventive measures against bullying, violence, and inappropriate behavior, prioritizing student safety and welfare.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Windsurfers Seize Title and Four Podiums at Asian Championship

Thai windsurfers won one gold and four silver medals at the Techno 293 Asian Championship in Langkawi, Malaysia, with Palm Suphachai Chueatathong claiming the men's under-19 title and three teammates medaling in their divisions.

Thai Windsurfers Seize Title and Four Podiums at Asian Championship
9 Aug Khaosod

Thai windsurfers achieved remarkable results at the Techno 293 Asian Championship 2026 held in Langkawi, Malaysia from August 1–9, securing one gold medal and four silver medals. The Thai Windsurfing Association fielded nine windsurfers in the Techno 293 category to compete for the Asian crown. Secretary-General Pattana Bunsawat reported that the team's standout performances included Palm Suphachai Chueatathong winning gold in the men's under-19 category, while Park Suphachok Chueatathong, Chaiyim Nawin Singsat, Ungying Korkunya Panthong, Biu Ittiphon Yomjinda all took silver in their respective divisions. The competition served as crucial preparation for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal in October and the 2027 Southeast Asian Games in Malaysia, with the venue offering identical conditions for competitive practice.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Chinese Embassy Urges Citizens to Respect Thai Laws at Events

The Chinese Embassy in Thailand has urged citizens traveling to the country to respect local laws and customs following incidents at cultural events involving clashes and airport disruptions. The embassy advised visitors to familiarize them

Chinese Embassy Urges Citizens to Respect Thai Laws at Events
9 Aug Khaosod

The Chinese Embassy in Thailand has issued a statement to citizens traveling to participate in activities in Thailand, asking them to respect local customs and event regulations. This follows incidents at the 2026 International Novel Festival involving clashes between security guards and Chinese fans, as well as airport disturbances when some fans caused disruptions during boarding, leading to penalties for both the fans and airport security personnel.

On August 8, the Chinese Embassy called on Chinese visitors coming to Thailand for cultural and sporting activities to comply with Thai laws and local regulations, respect local customs and traditions, understand event rules, and coordinate with government agencies to protect their rights. The embassy urged Chinese visitors to interact with Thai people with respect, goodwill, and openness, helping to maintain long-standing friendly relations between the two countries under the concept of "China and Thailand are one family."

The embassy also recommended that travelers study event regulations in advance, including admission requirements, photography rules, and restrictions on items allowed into venues, to avoid problems arising from unfamiliarity with local requirements. The Chinese Embassy encouraged Chinese nationals to resolve disputes reasonably and legally, and to seek help through official channels—including event organizers, venue staff, local authorities, or the Chinese Embassy in Thailand—if their legitimate rights and interests are affected.

On Saturday, the embassy stated that exchanges and cooperation between China and Thailand have deepened significantly in recent years, with closer people-to-people relations. The statement called on Chinese tourists participating in cultural and sporting activities to do so in a civilized, rational, and orderly manner, while promoting understanding and friendship between the peoples of both countries.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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