Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Mystery Donor Sends 3,200 Baht Coffee to Rattanathib Police Station

An anonymous donor sent 3,200 baht worth of premium coffee to Rattanathib Police Station in Nonthaburi on August 5, leaving officers baffled about the mysterious gift's origin. Police verified the order posed no safety concerns before distr

Mystery Donor Sends 3,200 Baht Coffee to Rattanathib Police Station
6 Aug Khaosod

Rattanathib Police Station in Nonthaburi received an unexpected delivery of 18 premium coffees worth approximately 3,200 baht on August 5, with no indication of who sent them or who they were meant for. A rider delivered nine bags between 2:20 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to the station's public relations desk, leaving the staff confused.

When no one came to collect the coffee, officers called the coffee shop to clarify. The shop confirmed the order was paid in full through a rider app, but the customer provided no name and gave only vague instructions to deliver to the police station. The shop agreed the officers could consume the coffee and took responsibility for the order.

Public relations officer Areeja Chue-Vongse explained that the busy afternoon made it impossible to question the rider immediately. "We were confused because there were so many coffees," she said. "At first we thought it might be a large catering order, and we were worried about a delivery mistake or potential problems." Officer Nakorrin Man-Thup confirmed the station contacted the coffee shop and verified there were no safety concerns before distributing the drinks to officers on duty.

Station Commander Pruet Jamroongsasn thanked the generous benefactor, suggesting they were likely a member of the public who had received good service and wanted to show appreciation to the hardworking staff.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Editorial: Gray Capital Infiltrating Thai Universities

A university council member has exposed alleged infiltration of Thai universities by Chinese-linked "gray capital" networks exploiting institutions for profit through unauthorized agreements, inflated-fee programs targeting foreign students

Editorial: Gray Capital Infiltrating Thai Universities
6 Aug Khaosod

A university council member has exposed how "gray capital" networks linked to China are infiltrating higher education institutions to exploit them for profit. The allegations are serious and demand immediate attention from society and the state. They include unauthorized use of the university's name to sign cooperation agreements with Chinese capital groups without senate approval, poor governance, and abuse of authority. Critics also point to curriculum schemes targeting Chinese students, advertising that those with only lower secondary education can earn a bachelor's degree in just five years while charging tuition many times higher than regular programs. The excess fees allegedly go toward student care or hiring ghostwriters for theses. Such practices, if true, corrupt educational commerce, devalue degrees, and damage Thailand's academic standards. More alarming is suspicion that these programs serve as a visa loophole for foreign nationals to settle or conduct illegal business in Thailand. If unchecked, universities would become fronts for gray capital networks engaging in illegal operations. Internal abuse of influence, harassment of whistleblowers, and information suppression signal that governance failures extend beyond the curriculum itself. This affects not just one university's reputation but Thailand's entire higher education system, national security, and the confidence of legitimate international students. Deputy Prime Minister and Higher Education Minister Yosthanan Wongswat's order for urgent fact-checking, expanded review of curricula and foreign student admissions, visa procedures, and coordination with security agencies is the right and timely response. If wrongdoing is confirmed, those responsible must face prosecution. Authorities must also investigate whether other institutions are operating similarly. Universities exist to build knowledge and the nation's future, not to serve as profit centers for gray capital networks or bases for nominee businesses. Resolving this crisis will restore public confidence and prevent Thai higher education from becoming another channel for Chinese gray capital to destabilize Thailand's economy and security.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
National

New Zealand Education Fair Offers Scholarships Worth 2 Million Baht

Over 70 New Zealand educational institutions will exhibit at a free fair on August 29, 2026, offering scholarships worth 2 million baht and featuring government-funded Manaaki awards marking 70 years of Thai-New Zealand relations.

New Zealand Education Fair Offers Scholarships Worth 2 Million Baht
6 Aug Khaosod

Celebrating 70 years of Thai-New Zealand diplomatic relations, Education New Zealand (ENZ) and the New Zealand Embassy in Thailand have announced excellent scholarship news for students wishing to pursue higher education in New Zealand. Students, parents, and interested individuals are invited to attend the 2026 New Zealand Education Fair on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Samyan Mitrtown Hall 2, 5th Floor. This is the largest New Zealand education event of the year.

The fair will feature over 70 schools, universities, technology institutes, and language schools from New Zealand, covering all education levels from short-term English courses to secondary, undergraduate, postgraduate, and vocational programs. Visitors can receive one-on-one consultation directly with institution representatives. Educational scholarships worth over 2 million baht are available, and attendees will hear the announcement of the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, full government-funded scholarships, with application information from experts (announcement at 10:30 a.m.).

Highlights include the NZ Simulated Classroom experience, where Thai students can experience New Zealand's Active Learning teaching style with New Zealand teachers, free English proficiency testing, and expert guidance on study planning. A special panel discussion will feature Suk Kwan Boolkul discussing parental perspectives on the important decision to send a child to study in New Zealand. Another major highlight is the presentation of the "7 Friends for 7 Decades" award, honoring seven distinguished individuals who have played important roles in promoting educational cooperation between Thailand and New Zealand during this 70-year diplomatic milestone, along with the announcement of the 2026 Alumni Hall of Fame award.

Special prizes include free round-trip flights to New Zealand for those who apply to featured institutions at the fair, and all registered attendees have a chance to win Air New Zealand flight tickets. Fair highlights include meeting representatives from over 70 leading New Zealand educational institutions at all levels, scholarship opportunities worth over 2 million baht, the announcement of the Manaaki Scholarship, the NZ Simulated Classroom with New Zealand teachers, free English proficiency testing, a special panel discussion with Suk Kwan Boolkul on tips for having your child study in New Zealand, the "7 Friends for 7 Decades" award presentation and the 2026 Alumni Hall of Fame announcement, and entry into a drawing for free round-trip flights to New Zealand for those who apply at the fair.

Interested individuals can register for free on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Samyan Mitrtown Hall 2, 5th Floor. Registration is available at https://www.learnenglishnewzealand.com/nzeducationfair

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Buddhist Temple Halts HIV Patient Admissions Due to Financial Strain

Wat Phra Baht Nam Phu in Lopburi has stopped accepting new HIV patients due to financial strain, despite serving roughly 200 staff and existing patients with monthly costs around 200,000 baht.

Buddhist Temple Halts HIV Patient Admissions Due to Financial Strain
6 Aug Khaosod

Wat Phra Baht Nam Phu in Khao Samyod subdistrict, Muang district, Lopburi, has declared it is unable to accept additional HIV patients due to the heavy burden of caring for existing patients and approximately 200 staff members. The temple's acting abbot, Phra Kru Suwat Kittisarn from Wat Sammarakluea, disclosed that the facility continues to shoulder care responsibilities despite limited and declining income. Monthly expenses for caring for AIDS patients and staff, including utilities, electricity, fuel, and food, total around 200,000 baht. Although the temple receives ongoing inquiries from AIDS patients and their relatives seeking admission, overseeing authorities have prohibited accepting new patients due to mounting financial obligations. The abbot appealed to Thai citizens to exercise self-discipline to avoid infection, warning that HIV carries lifelong consequences. Staff member Sompon Somakhaeng noted that the temple receives daily calls from relatives and patients but must direct them to government-provided treatment channels instead. He expressed concern that patients unable to access state healthcare due to travel costs and financial constraints may delay treatment until their condition worsens. He urged the government to develop solutions to support patient care, particularly for those unable to reach public health services.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Police

19-Year-Old Shot on First Day at Firing Range

A 19-year-old Bangkok trainee was shot in the abdomen during his first day at Suranari Camp firing range in Nakhon Ratchasima on August 6, with the bullet lodged inside. He remains in critical condition as police investigate how the inciden

19-Year-Old Shot on First Day at Firing Range
6 Aug Khaosod

A 19-year-old trainee was shot in the abdomen at Suranari Camp firing range in Nakhon Ratchasima on August 6, 2025 at 1:00 PM. The victim, identified as Mr. A (pseudonym) from Nong Chok district, Bangkok, suffered a gunshot wound with a bullet lodged inside and was rushed to Suranari Camp Hospital where he remains in critical condition under full medical care. Police, forensic officers, and military personnel secured the scene, collected evidence, and reviewed CCTV footage. Preliminary investigation revealed the victim arrived alone for his first day as an annual member, had been receiving instruction from a trainer on proper firearm use, and was holding a pistol with his right hand before the incident occurred.

Police Commander Sirichai Srichaipanya stated that officers were notified at approximately 1:00 PM. The victim had already been taken to hospital before police arrival. The investigation showed the victim enrolled as a new annual member with a trainer providing proper instruction before the incident. Authorities have contacted the victim's father in Chachoengsao province, and family members have been informed of the situation. Investigators will interview the trainer, range staff, and the victim's relatives to determine the cause and circumstances of the shooting. CCTV footage will be reviewed in detail to document the sequence of events. No clear motive has been identified at this time.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Police

Irish Tourist Found Dead in Phuket Lagoon

PHUKET: An Irish tourist who disappeared while swimming in a reservoir in the Laguna area of Phuket late Tuesday night (Aug 4) was found dead yesterday morning, police have confirmed.

Irish Tourist Found Dead in Phuket Lagoon
6 Aug The Phuket News

PHUKET: An Irish tourist who disappeared while swimming in a reservoir in the Laguna area of Phuket late Tuesday night (Aug 4) was found dead yesterday morning, police have confirmed.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Stock Exchange Says Data Breach Won't Affect Investor Assets

The Stock Exchange of Thailand confirmed a data breach on its investor portal exposed personal information but did not compromise investor assets, as no usernames or passwords were leaked. SET is strengthening cybersecurity measures and coo

Thai Stock Exchange Says Data Breach Won't Affect Investor Assets
6 Aug Khaosod

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) confirmed that a partial breach of investor data on its TSD Investor Portal did not compromise investor assets because no usernames or passwords were leaked. The exchange is strengthening cybersecurity measures, conducting deep investigations, monitoring suspicious transactions, and coordinating with all securities firms and commercial banks to track related accounts and prevent losses while restoring investor confidence.

According to Assdej Kongsiri, chairman and managing director of the SET, following the unauthorized access to personal information of TSD Investor Portal users, the exchange has conducted a detailed system examination and expanded its investigation scope to identify the cause and patch vulnerabilities. The team is working intensively and upgrading cybersecurity safeguards.

The SET has also coordinated with all securities companies and commercial banks to jointly monitor and track customer accounts affected by the breach. Transactions from affected accounts are being reviewed as special cases, and any unusual activity will be investigated and addressed immediately to protect investor assets.

Kongsiri confirmed that as of now, no investor assets have been harmed, and the accessed data did not include usernames or passwords that could be used to access systems or conduct transactions. Therefore, outside parties cannot directly access investor accounts.

The SET is continuously monitoring system transactions and conducting historical reviews to analyze attack patterns and whether they occurred previously, using this information to strengthen preventive measures. Kongsiri noted that the accessed data consists only of basic registration and profile information, not data needed to transfer assets or conduct securities transactions directly. The exchange will continue close monitoring and ongoing improvements to cybersecurity standards to protect data and maintain long-term investor confidence.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

Young Tiger Kills Wildlife Officer at Huai Kha Kaeng

A young tiger cub from Huai Kha Kaeng wildlife sanctuary fatally attacked a wildlife officer in August, mistaking him for prey while he lay on the ground; authorities believe it was a hunting accident involving the 1.5-year-old animal still

Young Tiger Kills Wildlife Officer at Huai Kha Kaeng
6 Aug Khaosod

On August 6, 2025, wildlife officials confirmed through camera trap footage that the tiger involved in the fatal attack on Mr. Sakdikrin (surname withheld) was one of three cubs belonging to Aphinyha, an 8-year-old female tiger in the area. The cubs, from her second litter, are approximately 1 year and 6 months old. Camera trap analysis shows that only one cub returned to the kill site, indicating it was the responsible animal.

The incident occurred when the young tiger entered the resting area where the officer was lying down horizontally on the ground. The tiger apparently mistook him for natural prey due to his body position resembling a typical prey animal's shape. At 1 year and 6 months old, the cub is still in its learning phase of hunting, and the incident is being treated as a tragic accident rather than predatory behavior, as tigers typically avoid buildings and flee when sensing human movement.

To prevent future incidents, authorities are implementing enhanced safety measures including improved lighting and open landscape design around staff quarters, along with behavioral awareness training. Researchers have deployed 15 camera traps covering 40 square kilometers around Aphinyha's territory to monitor the tiger family's hunting behavior and determine if the cubs can survive independently. If available, satellite collars will be fitted to track all three cubs. Should the aggressive behavior continue, authorities may remove the offending tiger for behavioral rehabilitation. The research team has already been deployed to the area to develop a comprehensive management plan.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Anti-Corruption Panel Tackles Foreign Nominee Land Ownership in Phuket

A parliamentary anti-corruption committee is investigating foreign nationals using Thai nominees to illegally own land and operate businesses in Phuket, with authorities identifying over 1,700 at-risk companies and enforcing closures in abo

Anti-Corruption Panel Tackles Foreign Nominee Land Ownership in Phuket
6 Aug Khaosod

On August 6, 2025, at Parliament, Asaipol Sannitripath, a Bhumjaithai party representative and chair of the House committee on anti-corruption and misconduct, announced discussions on investigating business registration, ownership, and land title documentation by foreigners in Phuket. Following a field visit to Phuket on June 26–27, the committee learned of cases in which foreign nationals held land and operated businesses using Thai nominees to register legal entities, a practice that could threaten national security and the economy. Officials will examine law enforcement compliance and investigate possible corruption or negligence by government officials.

The committee invited representatives from the Land Department, the anti-money-laundering committee, the business development department, the Central Investigation Police, economic crime units, Phuket commerce authorities, and the anti-corruption organization to provide information. The business development department reported issuing four orders and two directives to screen corporate registrations that may involve Thai nominee shareholders, and is studying amendments to foreign business laws and vetting at-risk entities.

In Phuket, investigators found 1,752 companies with foreign shareholders and forwarded data to the provincial governor for action through provincial committees. A data-integration system linking 13-digit corporate ID numbers with the Land Department is being developed to speed checks. Phuket's commerce office established a task force to investigate foreign business law violations; enforcement measures reduced foreign business operations by over 50% and triggered closures in about 20% of cases. Violations are referred to police for legal prosecution.

The Land Department screened 203,000 corporate records from the business development department and identified 4,041 high-risk entities nationwide, sending results to provincial offices. All 77 provinces now have appointed provincial committees and are gathering data for joint review with the business development department before forwarding to the Board of Investment for examination. If a foreign legal entity lacks investment promotion status, the Land Department director may compel land sale under Section 94 of the Land Code.

Phuket has 6,621 corporate records, with 361 in the high-risk group already submitted to the provincial committee. The province has filed 109 cases, prosecuted 34, and brought two to court. An anti-money-laundering official noted that the Prime Minister has convened 23 agencies to coordinate policy on the issue.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Agriculture Minister Pushes Nam Lai Reservoir Project for Loei

The Thai government is moving forward with the Nam Lai Reservoir project in Loei province to address chronic water shortages and flooding, with construction planned for 2571–2576 to serve over 17,000 farming families.

Agriculture Minister Pushes Nam Lai Reservoir Project for Loei
6 Aug Khaosod

Agriculture Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced the government's commitment to building the Nam Lai Reservoir in Loei province following a meeting with provincial and local officials on August 6, 2569. Loei province faces challenges with rapid water runoff during the rainy season, causing flash floods and forest runoff, while the dry season brings severe water shortages for consumption and agriculture. The minister stated that the Royal Irrigation Department will closely monitor water conditions using real-time data systems and coordinate with communities for early warning and rapid response.

The Nam Lai Reservoir project, initiated under the vision of the late King Rama IX, is planned for construction between 2571–2576 and will store 27.99 million cubic meters of water, benefiting over 17,200 rai of agricultural land and providing water to 14,270 households. The government is also tracking the construction of the Huai Nam Huay floodgate, intended to replace a 43-year-old weir damaged by forest runoff, which will improve water retention for 572 households and support 1,000 rai of farmland.

Suriya emphasized that water management requires careful planning and cooperation among all sectors. He instructed the Royal Irrigation Department to prepare project readiness for budget allocation while coordinating closely with provincial, local, and community partners to ensure water management aligns with local conditions and delivers real benefits to residents.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Police

Famous Buddha Amulet Dealer Ton Bangkhae Denies Fraud Charges

Police arrested prominent amulet dealer Ton Bangkhae on fraud charges for selling ordinary cameras as limited-edition models at inflated prices, with authorities estimating 40-50 victims and damages around 40 million baht.

Famous Buddha Amulet Dealer Ton Bangkhae Denies Fraud Charges
6 Aug Khaosod

Police have made significant progress in the arrest of Tonthong Sukhkaen, known as Ton Bangkhae, a prominent amulet dealer. Deputy Police Commissioner Tasaphoom Charupatchya, head of the Economic Crime Suppression Division, revealed that officers conducted searches at two locations in Nonthaburi province—Ton Bangkhae's residence and his amulet business—and seized multiple pieces of evidence including approximately 10 amulet viewing cameras, product brochures, documents, shirts, and company seals.

The Economic Crime Suppression Division emphasized that this case is separate from the "Madame Khaeng" case under the jurisdiction of the Anti-Corruption Bureau, and they are handling only the amulet camera fraud. To date, 12 victims—mostly Ton Bangkhae fans—have filed complaints with combined damages of approximately 3.2 million baht. The scheme involved advertising limited-edition amulet cameras but selling ordinary models worth around 1,000 baht at inflated prices of up to 10,000 baht each.

Police estimate total victims at 40–50 people with cumulative damages of around 40 million baht, though some victims have declined to pursue charges after receiving compensation. Authorities denied reports that Ton Bangkhae fled, stating that officers presented an arrest warrant at his residence and he voluntarily came to meet police. Ton Bangkhae initially denied all allegations and refused further cooperation during interrogation. Investigators have charged him with fraud, public fraud, and violations of the Computer Crime Act for submitting false information. Preliminary financial tracking and evidence suggest Ton Bangkhae acted alone with no identified accomplices.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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