Nua Tae Founders Deny Misusing Employee Social Security Funds

Nua Tae restaurant founders denied misusing employee social security funds, attributing wage delays to cash flow problems during rapid expansion, though an Islamic bank loan recently allowed them to pay all outstanding salaries in full.

15 Jul Khaosod

Veerachai Srutthai and Napasool Rambuth, founders of Company B Limited (Nua Tae restaurant), addressed questions about unpaid employee salaries and unreimbursed social security deductions, and clarified the company's future direction. Bangtote explained that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant employed 500–600 staff. When many venues were forced to close for safety reasons and mass layoffs occurred, the founders decided no employee should be left without work. They sold company shares to raise 60 million baht for payroll, though this decision marked the beginning of the company's long-term problems.

To attract new investors, the founders agreed to achieve sales targets high enough to enter the stock exchange. This forced rapid expansion beyond their original plan of no more than five locations. However, the accelerated growth revealed operational weaknesses and unforeseen costs accumulated rapidly. Six to seven months ago, the founders ran out of resources and stopped taking salaries themselves. For the last two to three months, they struggled to pay staff on time, delaying wages by approximately two months—a situation they deeply regretted.

Bangtote clarified that they did not misappropriate employee social security contributions. Rather, due to cash flow problems, they had insufficient funds to pay both salaries and social security contributions, not a matter of diverting money. An Islamic bank recently provided financial relief, allowing the company to pay all outstanding employee salaries in full. He confirmed that no employee has any deficiency in benefits, and all can claim full social security coverage. Going forward, the company will cover any shortfalls so employees can claim from the company directly. As of now, all salaries are paid in full and social security benefits are completely accessible.

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Tourism

Ning Chanya Stars in Kung Fu Soccer After Three-Year Wait

Actress Ning Chanya makes her international film debut in martial arts action film "Kung Fu Soccer," a "Shaolin Soccer" spinoff following a women's football team that uses kung fu to win a tournament. The film premieres in Thai cinemas afte

15 Jul Khaosod

Actress Ning Chanya is thrilled to finally debut on the international stage in the martial arts action film "Kung Fu Soccer," a spinoff of Stephen Chow's legendary "Shaolin Soccer." The film reunites her with co-stars Dilraba Dilmurat, Zhang Xiaofei, and EXO's Lay Zhang in an action-packed adventure about a grassroots women's football team that harnesses kung fu to win the prestigious Supreme Invincible Cup tournament.

Ning Chanya shared her excitement about the project, which required over a year of intensive training in football skills and physical conditioning. She revealed that her dedication resulted in injuries including torn ankle ligaments and a meniscus tear, which have since healed. According to Ning, the film goes beyond beautiful football—it transforms the pitch into an epic kung fu arena where goals could shake the heavens. The film premiered in China on July 11 and will soon arrive in Thai cinemas.

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Police

Police Rescue Two Students Held for Ransom in Call Center Scam

Police rescued two university students held captive in a Pathum Thani resort by an online scam gang that forced them to bind themselves and extorted nearly one million baht through 24-hour video surveillance and threats.

15 Jul Khaosod

Police rescued two students from an online call center extortion gang that held them captive via 24-hour video call and forced them to bind themselves in a resort room, extorting nearly one million baht. On July 15 at 1 p.m., officers from Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station in Pathum Thani, led by Pol. Col. Patthai Phamornpibul, raided a resort in Lak Hok subdistrict following a report from relatives. The two victims—Tae, 21, a second-year aviation student, and Pleum, 22, a second-year computer science student—were found in a room with their limbs bound with tape. They had been tricked by the scam gang to download an application and were held under video surveillance while the gang threatened them and forced them to contact their families for money transfers totaling nearly one million baht within 24 hours.

According to police investigation, the scammers used VPN and international internet connections to contact the victims. They used CCTV footage to track the first victim from his dormitory to a resort, then to another dormitory nearby. When police officers arrived and identified themselves, both victims were terrified and disbelieving, as the scammers had warned them that fake police might come. Tae reported that the criminals initially called claiming to investigate suspicious banking activity and money laundering, then demanded personal information and asset details. On Friday at 3 p.m., they threatened to help him avoid arrest in exchange for money and instructed him to liquidate assets—he reported having a gold bar worth 60,000 baht. The gang continued extorting money until real police arrived to rescue them.

One parent disclosed that their son initially called excitedly saying he had received a scholarship to study abroad and needed to arrange a U.S. visa, later requesting 350,000 baht to be deposited in his bank account. Trusting their son's future, the parent transferred the money but grew suspicious when unable to receive documentation about the visa process and asked for screenshots of the bank application to confirm funds were still in the account.

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Police

Bangkok Police Inspect Entertainment Venue Fire Safety Standards

Bangkok police and local officials inspected an entertainment venue on Sukhumvit 63, confirming it meets all fire safety standards including emergency exits, extinguishers, and evacuation procedures.

15 Jul Khaosod

On July 15, Pol. Lt. Gen. Withawat Chinkhram, commander of Police Region 5, and Pol. Col. Decha Phomsuwannaram, deputy commander, ordered officers led by Pol. Col. Rathannon Ekathitikulpat (Thong Lo Police Station commander) and Pol. Maj. Nattakitti Chokkouksong (deputy commander) to conduct a joint safety inspection with Watthana District officials, including District Director Pimpchuda Sakunsitthitada, at a service establishment on Sukhumvit 63 in Klongtan Nue subdistrict, Watthana District, Bangkok.

The inspection focused on fire prevention and suppression measures, emergency exits, emergency lighting, and fire extinguisher readiness, with strict adherence to government standards emphasized. Key requirements inspected included: regular checks of electrical systems and equipment; strict prohibition of fireworks and sparkling devices indoors; avoidance of highly flammable decorative materials such as foam and plastic fabric; fire extinguishers placed in clearly visible, easily accessible locations with adequate coverage; self-illuminated exit signs visible even during power outages; emergency exits that must not be locked and must open outward immediately; limiting occupancy to prevent overcrowding and ensure safe evacuation; and mandatory staff fire evacuation drills with clearly defined roles.

The establishment was found to be in full compliance with regulations. Officials reiterated the requirement for strict and continuous adherence to all fire safety measures.

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National

School Principal Under Investigation for Misconduct and Financial Irregularities

Teachers at a Ratchaburi province school have filed complaints against their principal alleging misconduct and financial irregularities, with a fact-finding committee investigating claims of improper purchasing procedures and dereliction of

15 Jul Khaosod

Teachers at a school in Ratchaburi province have filed complaints against their principal, alleging inappropriate conduct including dereliction of duty, improper personal behavior, and questionable transparency in purchasing procedures. The case was forwarded to the Ratchaburi Primary Education Zone 2 office for urgent investigation. According to a zone administrator, a fact-finding committee was established about two months ago to examine the allegations, though the administrator stated they are not directly overseeing the process. The committee has reportedly conducted inquiries into the claims, but it remains unclear whether findings have been formally submitted to the zone office.

The administrator acknowledged that financial irregularities appear to be the most substantive area under investigation, possibly stemming from a transition between the former retiring principal and the new principal, along with a change in finance staff. Regarding the personal conduct allegation, the administrator said no investigation has been conducted on that matter. Officials emphasized that the investigation is proceeding fairly for both sides, with results remaining confidential as a legal matter until conclusions are finalized and submitted to the zone director.

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Police

Laotian Worker Killed in Ladprao Beer Hall Fire Returned Home

A Laotian worker killed in the deadly Ladprao beer hall fire has been repatriated to his hometown in Laos for religious ceremonies, as Thailand and Laos coordinate efforts to assist victims of the July 12 tragedy.

15 Jul Khaosod

A Laotian worker who died in the Ladprao beer hall fire has been returned to his hometown in Laos for religious ceremonies. On July 15, 2025, authorities reported a solemn atmosphere at the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge border checkpoint in Mukdahan Province as officials from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation transported the deceased Laotian worker from the Ladprao beer hall fire to hand over to the Savannakhet Volunteer Rescue Association for repatriation.

The victim was identified as Phonepaseut Poungppany, a Laotian laborer who worked at the Ladprao beer hall. He was from Ban Kruea Khao Kad, Muang District, Savannakhet Province, Laos. After receiving the body from Thai officials, the Savannakhet Volunteer Rescue Association transported it across the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge back to his hometown so his family could conduct merit-making and religious ceremonies according to Laotian tradition.

The Ladprao beer hall fire on the night of July 12, 2025, caused significant loss of life, bringing the death toll to 32 with many more injured. Among the deceased were two Laotian workers: Phonepaseut Poungppany and Viangphon Chandavong, both employees of the establishment. Viangphon Chandavong had suffered severe injuries from the fire and was initially treated at Rama 9 Hospital before being transferred to Chonburi Hospital, where she later died.

Thailand and Laos continue to work closely together in assisting affected individuals, facilitating the repatriation of the deceased, and providing ongoing support to the bereaved families of both nations.

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Police

Man, 77, Electrocuted and Struck by Grinder Dies at Home

A 77-year-old man in Trat Province died after being electrocuted by a faulty angle grinder and struck by its spinning blade while working in his home garden on July 15.

15 Jul Khaosod

On July 15, 2569, Deputy Superintendent Prachaya Pinrat of Khao Saming Police Station received a report of a fatal accident involving electrocution and an angle grinder at a home garden in Thaepnimit Subdistrict, Khao Saming District, Trat Province. Police and rescue volunteers responded to the scene and found the body of 77-year-old Banthom near the grinder machine. His right thigh bore a severe laceration from the grinder blade, resulting in massive blood loss.

According to his wife Songwan, the victim was a hardworking man who frequently used the angle grinder to cut metal and assemble agricultural equipment. She had repeatedly warned and tried to stop him, but he dismissed her concerns. On that day, while he was cutting metal to assemble farm equipment, an electrical short circuit electrocuted him. His wife saw what happened and attempted to help but was also shocked. During her rescue efforts, his right leg contacted the spinning grinder blade, causing a deep wound that led to severe blood loss and his death.

Because the wife and family members were uncertain about the exact cause of death, authorities sent the body to Khao Saming Hospital to complete the investigation process before releasing it to the family for religious rites and merit-making ceremonies.

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National

Starbucks Plans 600 Thai Locations by 2025

Starbucks plans to expand to 600 locations across Thailand by early 2025, targeting the country's 65 billion baht coffee market with new menu items like Durian Dream Frappuccino and enhanced digital ordering services.

15 Jul Khaosod

Starbucks Thailand is advancing a four-part strategy to tap into Thailand's 65 billion baht coffee market, targeting 600 store locations by early 2025 while accelerating menu innovation, digital expansion, reinforcing its leadership in quality and customer experience, and pursuing growth alongside community and environmental stewardship despite economic headwinds and volatile coffee bean pricing.

On July 15, 2024, Netranapa Srisamai, Managing Director of Starbucks Thailand, unveiled the company's 2024 business vision and direction. Starbucks has operated in Thailand for 28 years and remains confident in the market's growth potential. The company views itself not merely as a coffee shop brand but as one that grows alongside customers, partners, and communities, committed to delivering superior consumer experiences while creating positive social and environmental impact.

Starbucks sees opportunity in Thailand's growing coffee industry. Ministry of Commerce data shows the Thai coffee market is valued at approximately 65 billion baht and growing about 8 percent year-on-year, supporting the company's continued expansion and new product development.

For 2024, the company has set four core strategies: product innovation, digital channel expansion, reinforcing leadership in quality and store experience, and growth paired with care for people, communities, and the environment.

On innovation, Starbucks is continuously developing new beverages and products across both coffee and non-coffee categories to serve diverse consumer tastes, with an emphasis on fruit-based drinks that align with Thai preferences. New launches include the Durian Dream Frappuccino, featuring durian, and the Iced Shaken Thai Milk Tea with Egg Custard Pudding—developed specifically for the Thai market and available with or without pudding. The company is also introducing more affordably priced options to encourage trial without compromising quality.

Starbucks is differentiating itself through merchandise, which has driven significant sales growth, and through collaborations with global brands such as Harry Potter collections, which have been well-received.

Srisamai highlighted the digital strategy. Since COVID-19 accelerated changes in consumer behavior, Starbucks developed a comprehensive Digital Ecosystem beyond just the Starbucks Rewards loyalty program. The app now supports advance ordering, in-store pickup, home delivery, table service, meeting room reservations via LINE Official Account, and the Starbucks LINE Gift service for sending gifts and beverages on special occasions.

Starbucks Rewards currently has over 1.9 million members, and the company will continue enhancing digital payment options and services while expanding partnerships with delivery providers and e-commerce platforms.

Srisamai emphasized that quality remains central to operations—from product development and operations to store design and environmental management—with Starbucks stores prioritizing eco-friendly materials.

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Community

Actress Pim Updates Romance With 'Highso Tam,' Awaits Proposal

Actress Pim Pimprapa revealed she's secretly hoping for a marriage proposal from wealthy boyfriend 'Highso Tam,' saying she wouldn't look at anyone else while they plan their shared future together at his luxury Koh Samui home.

15 Jul Khaosod

Actress Pim Pimprapa has updated fans on her romance with 'Highso Tam,' declaring she won't look at anyone else and secretly awaits a marriage proposal. After filming a home tour of Tam's luxury residence on Koh Samui, many viewers wondered whether the house might eventually become a wedding venue. Pim explained that Tam invested considerable effort into the two-year construction project, which remains under development. She confirmed the house belongs to Tam and features multiple bedrooms designed for friends and family to visit.

When asked if she's ready to be a Samui housewife, Pim responded she would become whatever he needs. Currently, she focuses on her career and personal growth while nurturing their relationship. She emphasized they are already planning a shared future together at their age, though neither has specific expectations about children or timeline. Pim described how Tam shows his care through concrete gestures—ordering her favorite meals or stocking her preferred snacks in the refrigerator—without explicit words of love.

Pim reciprocates by bringing happiness and support to his life daily. Regarding relationship adjustments, she believes no partnership is 100 percent perfect and both are ready to learn and adapt to each other. When asked if she would say yes if he proposed today, she shyly admitted she's secretly waiting for that moment, though she hasn't discussed marriage timelines with him and isn't rushing.

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National

AIS and Bangkok Land Deploy 5G-Advanced Across Muang Thong

AIS and Bangkok Land are partnering to deploy 5G-Advanced technology across the 4,000-rai Muang Thong area, transforming it into Thailand's prototype smart city with integrated connectivity for residents, businesses, and major events.

15 Jul Khaosod

AIS and Bangkok Land have announced a strategic partnership to upgrade the 4,000-rai Muang Thong area into Thailand's prototype smart city under the banner "Muang Thong NEXT: The Smart & Connected City." The collaboration will transform Muang Thong from a national events and convention hub into a connectivity-focused city integrating all urban systems—living, housing, work, education, entertainment, business, events, transportation, security, and future economic opportunities.

AIS will provide comprehensive support through several key initiatives: deploying intelligent 5G mobile networks across Muang Thong and upgrading to 5G-Advanced using multi-frequency technology to deliver faster speeds, stronger signals, lower latency, and dense coverage—especially for large concert halls and event centers hosting tens of thousands of simultaneous users for live streaming, immersive experiences, extended reality, holograms, and high-quality real-time broadcasts.

The partnership will upgrade all households to smart living via AIS 3BB Fibre3 home internet and the new WiFi 7 standard, enabling homes, condominiums, and communities to connect quickly and reliably while supporting future smart services from smart homes and remote work to telemedicine and remote health monitoring.

AIS will also drive business transformation for the AI era through hyper-connectivity solutions, sovereign cloud, data centers, and AI services to help office buildings and entrepreneurs accelerate digital transformation, connect to global cloud platforms, enable data analytics, and access managed services from expert teams.

The partnership will elevate the IMPACT concert and event experience through WiFi networks and connectivity systems supporting large crowds, ensuring continuous communication, transactions, and digital engagement for exhibitors and organizers. It will also expand 5G VIP Ultra and Boost Mode services on 5G SA networks for faster, more stable digital experiences.

This digital infrastructure will extend to comprehensive future smart city management, covering AI CCTV, smart access, digital signage, smart metering, IoT, digital payments, data analytics, digital libraries, virtual classrooms, and cybersecurity. Data from convention centers, business areas, residences, retail, educational institutions, security agencies, and public spaces will feed into a Smart City Data Platform and digital twin, enabling real-time city oversight for officials to optimize traffic, energy, space usage, and security planning. The initiative aims to position Muang Thong as a model smart and connected city that operates intelligently, securely, and sustainably.

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Community

Celebrity Man Karin Guides Fans Through Three Sacred Blessings at Wat Suthat

Celebrity Man Karin led her fan club on a spiritual pilgrimage to Wat Suthat Thepwararam in Bangkok, guiding them through three sacred sites believed to grant protection, prosperity, and karmic forgiveness.

15 Jul Khaosod

Celebrity Man Karin Phattraphat, along with companion Buung Sadhee Bai Yok, led her fan club 'Tiger Jade' on a merit-making pilgrimage to Wat Suthat Thepwararam to pray at three sacred sites for spiritual enhancement and karmic forgiveness. The first location is the main Buddha image in the ordination hall, described as highly sacred and conducive to meditation and chanting. The second is Luang Pho Klak Fin, recommended for those facing life obstacles and difficulties, with the suggestion to visit monthly to address accumulated karma and karmic debts. The third and main highlight is Thao Wessuwannna at Wat Suthat, a legendary statue originating from the era of Chao Khun Sri, believed to grant protection in matters of wealth, financial stability, prosperity, and safety from accidents and harm. Karin shared her personal testimony that after two visits three years ago, major problems she faced were resolved, inspiring her to share this temple with others. She emphasized that people should visit regularly, as unknowingly throughout daily life one may create new karma or offend others. She also recommended using the donation box, called the 'sangha debt clearance box,' to help cleanse one's karmic debts.

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