Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

PM Anutin Says Fraud Probe Measures Underway

Authorities have launched a fraud investigation into local civil service exams after discovering mismatched score certificates and answer sheets, with plans to invalidate nearly 6,000 positions and pursue criminal charges against suspects.

PM Anutin Says Fraud Probe Measures Underway
27 Jul Khaosod

On July 27 at Government House, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister discussed progress in investigating fraud in the local civil service examinations following a factual report by Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nílpraphan. Anutin confirmed that multiple actions are already underway, including the transfer of Local Administration Department executives, establishment of a deputy permanent secretary to investigate the case, and discovery that score certificates and answer sheets do not match. Disciplinary committees have been formed to pursue serious misconduct charges against those suspected of involvement.

Anutin stated that Pakorn was appointed to examine the facts, and authorities are cooperating with police and the National Anti-Corruption Commission to issue summonses and arrest warrants against suspects, who currently remain in custody pending prosecution. The central civil service examination committee plans to invalidate 5,924 local civil servant positions and forward cases to provincial authorities for legal action, with investigations expanding to trace financial and other connections.

When asked about the earlier directive to suspend local civil service appointments, Anutin acknowledged that the central civil service committee had independent authority to issue resolutions but added that the facts ultimately proved his position correct. He emphasized that everyone must take responsibility and stated that he had advised others to trust the Prime Minister's judgment. Regarding whether the position invalidations are sufficient, Anutin said this represents administrative action, while police, the anti-corruption commission, and Pakorn's task force with multiple agencies are handling criminal prosecution to ensure no one escapes accountability.

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Police

Witness: MG Driver Hit First, Rider Knocked Down at Gas Station

A witness says an MG driver's passenger punched a motorcycle-taxi rider at a gas station near Minburi Prison after a dispute over an EV charging spot, leaving him with injuries requiring six stitches.

Witness: MG Driver Hit First, Rider Knocked Down at Gas Station
27 Jul Khaosod

A witness has recounted how an MG driver opened fire first, with a woman punching relentlessly, leaving a motorcycle-taxi rider with a broken eye. Before the incident, the rider was seen moving his bike out of an EV charging spot.

On July 26, 2025, a reporter spoke with Mr. Auto, an eyewitness to the assault on the motorcycle-taxi rider at a gas station opposite the Minburi Prison. He revealed that he saw the MG vehicle—the accused's car—parked blocking his way, preventing him from driving out. Initially, he thought the rider and the driver knew each other, as he saw both standing and talking normally for about 5 minutes, though he could not hear them.

Mr. Auto continued, explaining that before he witnessed the MG driver's woman punching the rider relentlessly, the rider tried to defend himself and fell down, but did not retaliate. At that moment, he quickly got out of his car and heard the rider say, "When did I curse you?" The rider then asked him to photograph the suspect's license plate, which he did with his mobile phone. Meanwhile, the suspect said, "Go ahead, take the photo," before getting into the car and driving away as shown in the clip.

Regarding the rider's parking, Mr. Auto said he saw the rider ride his motorcycle and park it in front of the EV charging spot, which was an empty space near the fried banana shop where he picked up an order. He saw the rider get off and pick up the order in just a moment, then return to the bike and was about to move it out.

Mr. Auto also stated that at the EV charging spot in the gas station, he saw one taxi parked waiting to charge at the spot where the rider was parked. The MG vehicle came in the opposite direction and was about to park at that same spot. He observed that the MG arrived alone—only two people, the rider and the suspect, were standing talking to each other.

Regarding the suspect's claim that the rider hit first, Mr. Auto said he clearly saw the suspect assault the rider first, while the rider only defended himself before falling down. Fortunately, he fell onto the vehicle, preventing his head from hitting the ground.

The motorcycle-taxi rider vows to pursue the matter to the end after being punched in the eye by the MG driver, requiring 6 stitches.

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National

Cabinet Extends 7% VAT Rate for Another Year

Thailand's Cabinet approved extending the 7% VAT rate for another year through September 2026, aiming to ease living costs and boost consumer spending and business investment.

Cabinet Extends 7% VAT Rate for Another Year
27 Jul Khaosod

The Cabinet has approved in principle an extension of the value-added tax (VAT) reduction measure for an additional year, maintaining the VAT rate at 7% from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, to ease the burden of living costs, stimulate consumer spending, boost business confidence, and support private sector investment aligned with the country's economic goals.

Government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek revealed that the Cabinet meeting approved the draft royal decree under the Revenue Code regarding the VAT rate reduction, as proposed by the Ministry of Finance, to extend the VAT reduction measure for one more year.

Ratchada stated that the core of the measure is to extend the period of the VAT rate reduction, which was set to expire on September 30, 2025, for another year starting October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. The VAT rate will remain at 6.3 percent (excluding local taxes) or 7 percent (including local taxes) on a temporary basis for all sales of goods, services, and imports.

"Maintaining the VAT rate at 7 percent will help reduce the impact of rising living costs and stimulate consumer spending, which will strengthen business confidence in the Thai economy and allow private sector investment within the country to expand according to targets. It will also help create a favorable business environment for the private sector," Ratchada said.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Lawyer Submits Senate Election-Rigging Evidence to Prosecutors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Police

Massage Therapist Escapes Attempted Rape After Claiming HIV Status

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

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

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

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

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

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National

Cabinet Approves Five Regional Education Officials

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

Cabinet Approves Five Regional Education Officials
27 Jul Khaosod

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

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

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

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

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

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Regional

Phuket Authorities Inspect Chabad House Over Licensing and Fundraising

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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National

Thailand's Manufacturing Index Shrinks 3.1% in June

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

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

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

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

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

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

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Phuket Finds Eight Cases in Jet-Ski Crackdown

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

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

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

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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National

XPeng Expands Parts Warehouse to Support EV Growth

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

XPeng Expands Parts Warehouse to Support EV Growth
27 Jul Khaosod

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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