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Police

Man Confesses to Heroin Smuggling, Lab Tests Confirm Drug

A 57-year-old Hmong man confessed to smuggling heroin in elephant-patterned bags for an airline hostess, with lab tests confirming heroin residue in recovered fabric samples from Bangkok.

3h ago Khaosod

At 4:16 p.m. on July 4, 2025, police took into custody Uthai Kanaphiwat, 57, the man in the blue hoodie who delivered heroin-concealed parcels to Mina, a female airline hostess. Officers used FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) to analyze white powder scraped from elephant-patterned fabric remnants, which confirmed the substance was heroin.

Deputy Police Commissioner Samran Nualma questioned Uthai about the elephant-patterned fabric containing narcotics, and he nodded in admission. Officers explained that the white powder samples from the fabric tested positive for heroin. The case will proceed with detailed laboratory analysis to determine exact quantities.

Uthai, a Hmong national from Nan Province, confessed during interrogation that on June 20 he traveled to Chiang Kham District, Phayao to collect four elephant-patterned bags (12 units) and two elephant-patterned bags (6 units) containing pre-loaded heroin. After learning the airline hostess was arrested in Australia, he disposed of remaining heroin down toilets and scattered bags at various locations to destroy evidence. The evidence found today came from items recovered on Soi Suea Yai.

Forensic testing revealed heroin residue inside the confiscated bags, scoring nearly 900 out of 1,000 points, confirming heroin traces. Uthai admitted he knew the bags contained heroin from the start. He received them from a masked person in Chiang Kham, Phayao, transported them to Bangkok by tour bus, stored them in a rented room, and delivered them to a condo in the Bang Na area for 60,000 baht per trip—claiming he completed three such deliveries.

Uthai stated he was contacted through a Line group by a Thai person using coded account names like "Rinrin" but could not recall their real name. He denied packing the heroin himself, only receiving pre-packed bags before repacking and shipping them. All three deliveries used the same driver, Atirach (nicknamed "Peah"), 59, contacted by phone rather than through an app.

Deputy Commissioner Samran stated police remain skeptical of Uthai's claims of not knowing the driver personally and are gathering additional evidence. If connections are found, police will seek arrest warrants from the court.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Man Finds Abandoned Painting Worth 5.7 Million Baht

A Spanish man found an abandoned painting by master artist Joaquín Sorolla worth 5.7 million baht on a Seville street and returned it to its grateful owners after discovering its value through an AI search.

3h ago Khaosod

A Spanish man has recovered a painting worth 5.7 million baht that he found abandoned on a street in Seville. The man picked up the artwork simply because he liked its golden frame, not realizing it was an original piece by Joaquín Sorolla, a famous Spanish master known for his light and beach scenes valued at approximately 150,000 euros.

The painting's owners revealed they regularly brought the artwork on beach vacations and intended to place it in their car before departing. In their rush, they accidentally left the painting leaning against a wall. Upon discovering it missing, they posted a search notice describing it only as "a painting of sentimental value" without revealing the artist's identity to prevent exploitation.

Urtado, the finder who lives in Murcia about 525 kilometers from Seville, explained that he and his family assumed someone had discarded the painting, so they took it home because they liked the frame. He later used an AI system to research the artwork, discovered it might be a Sorolla, and sent it to an auction house in Madrid for verification. The company quickly confirmed it was an authentic original.

When Urtado saw the police search announcement with the owner's photo, he immediately contacted authorities to clarify he had not stolen the painting but simply found it abandoned on the street. Police safely returned the artwork to its family, who expressed their gratitude and prepared a small gift as a reward.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
Weather

Storm Maysak Brings Heavy Rains to Four Thai Regions

Tropical storm Maysak brings heavy to very heavy rainfall across Thailand's northern, northeastern, and eastern regions through July 5, with authorities warning of potential flash floods in low-lying and hillside areas.

3h ago Khaosod

On July 4, 2025, Thailand's Meteorological Department forecasted heavy rainfall in some areas over the next 24 hours, with very heavy rain in parts of the upper North, upper Northeast, and East regions. A monsoon trough is passing through the upper North and northern Laos, moving into tropical storm Maysak, while a strong southwest monsoon covers the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. The public is urged to be cautious of heavy to very heavy rainfall and accumulated precipitation, which may cause flash floods and flash flooding, especially in hillside and low-lying areas near water sources.

Waves in the upper Andaman Sea are moderately strong, with heights of 2-3 meters, exceeding 3 meters in thunderstorm areas. The lower Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand have waves around 2 meters, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm zones. Fishermen are advised to navigate carefully and avoid thunderstorm areas. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea should remain ashore.

Weather forecast for Thailand from 6:00 PM today to 6:00 PM tomorrow:

North: 70% thunderstorms with heavy rain in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun; very heavy rain in Chiang Rai, Phayao, and Nan. Low 23-26°C, high 31-34°C. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

Northeast: 70% thunderstorms with heavy rain in Loei, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani; very heavy rain in Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, and Nakhon Phanom. Low 23-26°C, high 30-34°C. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

Central: 70% thunderstorms with some heavy rain in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Kanchanaburi, and Ratchaburi. Low 22-27°C, high 34-36°C. Southwest winds 10-25 km/h.

East: 70% thunderstorms with heavy rain in Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, and Rayong; very heavy rain in Chanthaburi and Trat. Low 24-28°C, high 30-33°C. Southwest winds 20-35 km/h. Waves around 2 meters, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

South (East Coast): 30% thunderstorms with some heavy rain in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan. Low 23-25°C, high 32-35°C. From Surat Thani upward: southwest winds 20-35 km/h, waves 1-2 meters, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorms. From Nakhon Si Thammarat downward: southwest winds 15-30 km/h, waves around 1 meter, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorms.

South (West Coast): 30% thunderstorms, mainly in Ranong and Phang Nga. Low 23-27°C, high 30-34°C.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Police

Two-Year-Old Killed In Drunk Driving Crash, Driver Absent From Funeral

A 2-year-old killed in a June drunk driving crash in Lampang was cremated July 4 as the accused driver, a former sub-district official, remained absent from the funeral service and has not contacted the injured mother about compensation.

3h ago Khaosod

Residents of Lampang gathered on July 4, 2025 at Wat Si Koet temple to hold a merit-making and cremation ceremony for 'Nong Toem Farn', a 2-year-old victim of a drunk driving accident, with the suspect notably absent. The child was killed after a pickup truck struck a parked sedan before spinning out and hitting the family of three walking along Phahonyothin Road in Phichai subdistrict, Mueang district, Lampang on June 8. The father was injured, while the mother, Arunrada (May), 35, suffered severe injuries including two broken left leg bones and three broken ribs. The driver is an alleged former sub-district official from Phichai.

The ceremony was attended by several government representatives, local lawmakers from the Kla Tha Tham party, Songmeaung Wong Chai, mayor of Phichai Municipality, and Dr. Saman Fu Saeng, deputy mayor, along with family, friends, and residents. Abbot Kru In Wet Phitaksa of Wat Si Koet led 11 Buddhist monks in chanting. The grieving mother watched photographs of her child throughout the service as family members expressed their sorrow. The casket was decorated with toys, toy cars, and balloons that the child loved. Notably, the driver sent no representative to the funeral.

Following the ceremony, the child's body was transported by a blue six-wheel truck belonging to Lampang Municipality to Trilak Cemetery in Mueang district for cremation. Many locals sought lottery numbers based on the truck's license plate and the child's age. Attorney Kamal stated that the suspect has confessed and the Mueang Lampang Police Station is expected to forward the case to prosecutors within the week. He noted the suspect has disputed liability and sought to implicate the parked car's owner, though this has no bearing on the case. The attorney called for justice and compensation for the mother, who lost her beloved child and suffered severe injuries, as the suspect has yet to contact the family regarding compensation.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

US Couple Marries on Water Slide, Chases Guinness Record

A North Dakota couple renewed their vows on a water slide at a Wisconsin water park in full wedding attire, part of their bid to break the Guinness World Record for most vow renewals in 30 days. The pair have already renewed their vows acro

3h ago Khaosod

An American couple held an unusual wedding ceremony on a water slide at a Wisconsin water park, wearing full bridal and formal attire. Keisha and Jon Lakoduk from North Dakota renewed their vows in a special ceremony at a water park in Wisconsin before sliding down the water slide together in their wedding clothes, creating a spectacle for onlookers.

This daring activity is not merely for publicity, but part of their mission to break the Guinness World Record for the most vow renewals within a 30-day period. Additionally, Keisha aims to set a personal record as the bride who has slid down water slides in a wedding dress the most times.

Jon told local media WKOW, which was subsequently covered by People magazine: "As soon as we thought of the idea of getting married at a water park, we knew we had to do it at the water park capital of the world, and Land of Natura is the perfect place."

Before arriving in Wisconsin, the couple had already renewed their vows in multiple states including Idaho, Arizona, Las Vegas, North Dakota, and Utah.

The couple explained that instead of holding one large wedding, they chose to travel to different locations to hold ceremonies so that relatives and friends living in different states could celebrate the important moment themselves without incurring expenses or traveling far to gather in one place.

This concept transformed the couple's vow renewal into a "road trip wedding" that both creates shared memories with loved ones and may also lead them to become world record holders.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Thailand Develops 55 Community Tourism Routes

Thailand's Tourism Authority is developing 55 community-based tourism routes in partnership with international tour operators, targeting long-haul travelers seeking sustainable and culturally meaningful experiences.

3h ago Khaosod

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is convening tourism operators and long-haul market specialists to jointly develop 55 community-based tourism routes for integration into tourism programs. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatrpaibuun stated: "TAT is fully committed to advancing Thailand's tourism sector under the 'Value over Volume' concept, focusing on creating value and elevating tourism standards to quality-driven experiences alongside sustainable development. This involves integrating cooperation from government, private sector, communities, and partner networks to develop and enhance tourism products and services, reflecting the strength of Thailand's tourism industry and the effectiveness of continuous government policy implementation."

Today, the European, American, Middle Eastern, and African market divisions are piloting workshops inviting Destination Management Companies (DMCs) with long-haul market clientele to share market insights and co-design appropriate tourism routes to strengthen Thailand's competitive positioning. Initial results show many Thai tourism communities have strong potential for advancement, while Thai tourism products and services continue attracting foreign visitors. Current tourist behavior studies reveal that most travelers prioritize responsible tourism, environmental conservation, community preservation, and quality spending—particularly Gen Z long-haul travelers seeking meaningful cultural and lifestyle experiences.

To enable communities to fully tap long-haul market opportunities, development is needed in information readiness, promotional channels, service standards, and sales tools. This will help DMCs effectively integrate programs and market them to tour operators and travel agents in foreign markets. TAT believes this collaboration represents a critical step in developing and upgrading community tourism routes to meet long-haul tourist demand while distributing income to communities and localities, fostering sustainable growth in Thailand's tourism industry.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Party Proposes Stricter Hajj Law to Stop Fraud

The Rak Dharma Party is pushing Parliament to strengthen Thailand's outdated Hajj law with stricter oversight, penalties, and compensation funds to protect pilgrims from fraud. The party submitted draft legislation in May, citing cases of c

3h ago Khaosod

The Rak Dharma Party is pushing for reforms to the Hajj Promotion Act to strengthen protections for pilgrims and close loopholes exploited by fraudsters. On July 4, 2569, Deputy Party Leader Najmuddin Umar stated that many pilgrims losing the opportunity to perform this sacred religious duty represents an unacceptable tragedy that proves the state must urgently update relevant laws to prevent citizens from becoming victims of fraud repeatedly.

Umar explained that the Rak Dharma Party has recognized this problem for some time and submitted a draft Hajj Business Act to Parliament beginning May 28, 2569, making it the first political party to propose amendments to the current Hajj Promotion Act of 1981, which is now obsolete and insufficient for protecting citizens.

The new legislation's core objective is to shift the law's focus from "promotion" to genuine "regulation and consumer protection" for pilgrims. It includes stronger oversight measures for hajj service providers, stricter penalties for violators, and an insurance system or compensation fund to reimburse victims without requiring them to await court proceedings.

"It's time for Parliament to fast-track this bill into the consideration agenda because every day the outdated law remains in effect only increases opportunities for fraudsters to exploit the faith of Muslim pilgrims," Umar stated.

The party pledged to continue pushing the legislation to completion, establishing a standardized, transparent hajj industry oversight system that genuinely protects pilgrims' rights. Umar called on all political parties to collaborate in advancing the bill and requested the Prime Minister's endorsement, noting it is a financial bill. He also thanked all parties assisting with the case of 150 residents from three southern provinces who were defrauded by operators and unable to perform umrah on July 3, 2569.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Tightens Border Security Across 21 Provinces

Thailand is tightening border security across 21 provinces through integrated command centers targeting cybercrime, human trafficking, and drug trafficking, with strict enforcement and victim support measures.

3h ago Khaosod

On July 4, Interior Ministry Permanent Secretary Arthisit Sampantharattana announced results from the Border Security Integration Center meeting held June 29 at Thai Armed Forces headquarters, chaired by Supreme Commander General Ukrits Bunthanont. The meeting resolved to empower 21 border provinces—Phayao, Nan, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, Chiang Mai, Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Ranong, Yala, Songkhla, Narathiwat, Satun, and Pattani—to use provincial border command centers as the core mechanism for border security operations, targeting urgent threats including cybercrime, human trafficking, and drug trafficking.

The directive aligns with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's policy mandating strong, continuous measures to prevent and suppress criminal acts affecting national security and public safety. The Interior Ministry has issued urgent orders to all 21 provincial governors along the Thai-Myanmar, Thai-Lao, and Thai-Malaysian borders to develop annual border security action plans tailored to local contexts while conforming to the national security framework. The provincial border command centers will serve as key management tools for addressing security challenges and enhancing public safety along border areas.

Three priority areas have been identified: Prevention, through integrated "provincial team" coordination using village headmen, local government organizations, and community networks as surveillance and threat-prevention resources for both residents and tourists; Suppression, through strict and continuous law enforcement; and Assistance, providing victim support and problem resolution through provincial justice centers and relevant agencies with close monitoring.

Permanent Secretary Arthisit emphasized that officials involved in any misconduct—whether supervisors or subordinates—will face both disciplinary and criminal penalties without fear or favoritism, as no one is above the law. This unified enforcement will strengthen local mechanisms and build lasting social resilience, security, and prosperity for Thai society.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Miss & Mister Earth Thailand 2026 Tightens Selection Criteria

Miss & Mister Earth Thailand 2026 is raising selection standards to focus on real-world impact, requiring contestants to champion environmental and social causes like pollution and waste management. Applications open today through August 9,

3h ago Khaosod

Miss Earth Thailand organization held a strategic planning meeting led by Dr. Nong-Sirikarn Unsnkran, organization president, and Noy-Naruepon Narupiti, vice chair, joined by competition manager Mek-Jirrkitti, TV host Tao Teevipol, Miss Earth Fire Thailand 2025 Mor Love-Surangkhana Khunnern, and Mister Earth 2025 representatives Bhak Paphangkorn, Bobby Panachai, Earth Voradorn, Berth Nattha, Thom Tasuwan, and Brand Ambassador Yot Rawangphan to refine competition strategy.

Dr. Nong explained the competition's new direction: "We need strategic adjustments to empower contestants to demonstrate genuine spirit and implement projects that truly benefit the world. This meeting brainstormed major issues including improving quality of life, strengthening family institutions to reduce workplace stress, addressing global warming, PM 2.5 pollution, and overwhelming waste management through practical solutions that can drive real behavioral change. We aim to partner with government and private sectors so contestants become part of sustainable global community and environmental progress. If we don't care for the world, the world won't care for us. This competition isn't just pageantry—it's building confidence and getting everyone involved in protecting our planet together," Dr. Nong concluded, inviting interested applicants to register from today through August 9, 2026.

Miss & Mister Earth Thailand 2026 Schedule: Today–August 9, 2026: Application period opens August 3, 2026: Official press conference August 16, 2026: Audition round August 19–23, 2026: Hybrid training camp activities August 24–28, 2026: Full training camp at N Sirinart Hotel, Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani August 26, 2026: Swimsuit round at N Sirinart Hotel, Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani August 30, 2026: Final round at CDC Crystal Design Center

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Legendary Milan Café COVA Opens First Bangkok Location

Milan's legendary 200-year-old café COVA has opened its first Bangkok location at One Bangkok, bringing two centuries of Italian elegance and tradition to Thailand's capital.

4h ago Khaosod

COVA, the legendary Italian café from Milan, has opened its first flagship store in Thailand at One Bangkok, a world-class landmark in central Bangkok with official service now available.

Founded in 1817 beside the renowned Teatro alla Scala, COVA has served as a meeting place for prominent figures, artists, and members of Italy's cultural community for over two centuries before gaining international recognition as an emblem of Milanese elegance.

The opening of COVA Thailand represents a transfer of the original spirit from Via Montenapoleone in Milan to Bangkok, a city filled with energy, contemporary culture, and diverse lifestyle traditions. The brand remains committed to its core values of quality, craftsmanship, and refined service.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Woman Discovers Husband's Affair Through Baby Shower Invite

A woman discovered her husband's infidelity after receiving a surprise baby shower invitation revealing he'd fathered a child with another woman, with the party being held at his parents' house. She attended the event herself, confronting t

4h ago Khaosod

A woman was shocked to receive a mysterious invitation to a baby shower, only to discover that the father of the unborn child was her own husband. Adding to her shock, she realized her husband's family knew about the affair all along.

Sometimes infidelity is exposed through unexpected events, as in the viral story of Lorelia, who uncovered her husband's betrayal through a baby shower invitation.

Lorelia shared her story on TikTok, explaining that she initially felt confused upon receiving an invitation to a baby shower from an anonymous person, as she didn't recognize the woman's name on the card. Driven by curiosity, she investigated further and was devastated to find photos from the expectant parents showing her husband posing with the pregnant woman.

In that moment, everything became clear. Lorelia realized her husband had been unfaithful and had even fathered a child with another woman. What shocked her even more was that the baby shower was being held at her husband's parents' house.

This realization made Lorelia certain that her husband's family was already aware of the affair. She felt betrayed not only by her husband but also by the family she had grown close to. Instead of immediately venting her anger, Lorelia did something unexpected—she decided to attend the party herself.

Her sudden appearance transformed the atmosphere instantly. Her husband was startled to see his wife there. This was the moment when all the lies were finally exposed. Soon after this incident, Lorelia filed for divorce. During the divorce proceedings, she secured rights to the house, boat, and Porsche that she had owned during their marriage. Later, she discovered that her sister-in-law had intentionally sent her the invitation to reveal the truth that had been concealed all along.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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