Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Police Bust Drug Ring, Seize 500 Million Baht in Methamphetamine

Police arrested two drug traffickers and seized 9.56 million methamphetamine tablets worth over 500 million baht hidden at a Saraburi shelter destined for Bangkok distribution. The bust followed months of investigation into a major traffick

Police Bust Drug Ring, Seize 500 Million Baht in Methamphetamine
26 Jul Khaosod

Police have arrested two drug trafficking suspects, Komsarn (alias Games), 30, and Thanaphavat (alias Watthan), 45, at an unmarked shelter in Tambon Nong Khaem, Amphoe Nong Khaem, Saraburi province. Officers seized 9.56 million methamphetamine tablets valued at over 500 million baht that were being hidden at the location before transport into inner Bangkok for distribution.

The arrests followed an investigation into a major drug trafficking network that began in early 2025. Police discovered the suspects were receiving narcotics from a large-scale dealer who used vans for illegal distribution, storing drugs at the Saraburi shelter to avoid detection. Further investigation revealed the network planned to retrieve additional supplies from major dealers in central Thailand using vans before smuggling them into Bangkok for sale.

After surveillance identified the shelter as a drug storage facility, officers obtained a warrant and conducted a raid, uncovering the massive stash deliberately hidden at that location. The suspects face charges of jointly distributing Category 1 drugs (methamphetamine or amphetamine) without authorization for commercial purposes, with intent to spread drugs among the public and threaten national security and public safety. Police continue investigating the broader drug network.

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National

Thai SMEs Present Five-Point Economic Plan to Government

Thai SMEs submitted a five-point economic plan to the government at a forum in Bangkok, calling for expanded market access, easier financing, technology adoption, regulatory reform, and workforce development to strengthen small businesses n

Thai SMEs Present Five-Point Economic Plan to Government
26 Jul Khaosod

The Thai SME Federation and small business operators submitted a comprehensive policy blueprint to Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprasad, Minister of Finance, at the THAI MSME FORUM 2026 held July 24–26, 2026, at the Sri Saman Building of the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence. The three-day forum, themed "Transform Policy into Business Opportunity," drew more than 1,400 participants including MSME entrepreneurs, federation members, business networks, government and private-sector representatives, and allied organizations nationwide to shape grassroots economic development and push for policy proposals tailored to Thai business operators.

The blueprint, titled "Blue Book: Proposals to Drive MSME and Grassroots Economy," synthesizes feedback gathered over several months through nationwide stakeholder meetings, workshops, and surveys. Rather than a proposal from the federation alone, it represents a collective voice from entrepreneurs across all regions of Thailand. The document addresses structural challenges facing MSME operators through five key agendas: (1) creating market opportunities by expanding domestic and foreign trade channels and improving access to government procurement; (2) improving access to financing through suitable financial mechanisms and reduced credit barriers; (3) promoting technology and innovation through AI, digital tools, and innovation to boost productivity and competitiveness; (4) establishing fair rules by streamlining laws, regulations, and bureaucratic procedures to be convenient and transparent; and (5) building human capital and organizational capacity through skills development and management training.

Niphon Theeraworn, chairman of the Thai SME Federation, stated that the forum aims to create a platform where entrepreneurs collectively shape the future of Thai MSME rather than merely receiving policy directives from government. The federation has spent over a decade serving as a central organization linking MSME networks across regions and partnering with government, private sector, and allied organizations to advance policy proposals, develop knowledge, create market opportunities, and strengthen Thai entrepreneurs' competitiveness in the new economy. Deputy PM Ekniti endorsed the collective effort and instructed state agencies to accelerate implementation of low-interest lending programs for business operators.

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National

Buddhist Monk Defends Fire Relief Comments, Says He Won't Ban Lawsuits

Buddhist monk Ajarn Beer clarified that his fire relief comments were misinterpreted, insisting he never opposed victim compensation but disagreed with government footing the entire bill beyond relevant agencies' responsibility.

Buddhist Monk Defends Fire Relief Comments, Says He Won't Ban Lawsuits
26 Jul Khaosod

Buddhist teacher Ajarn Beer appeared on the One31 talk show "Khuy Saep Show" hosted by Chompoo Gaawn Bai and Peggy Sridhanya to address online backlash over his earlier remarks on fire victim compensation. "Honestly, there was nothing controversial," Beer said. "Most people saw headlines saying I opposed relief, but in the full clip I actually said victims should demand compensation from relevant agencies and hold the shop responsible. I never said no compensation—I just disagreed with the government footing the entire bill beyond what relevant agencies should cover. It must happen according to law anyway." He explained that his message was misinterpreted in media reports and social commentary. "When people communicate about it, they think I banned compensation and say I lacked compassion. It became two different stories," he said, clarifying that he had distinguished between workers acting in their jobs and those who placed themselves in danger through negligence, particularly those drinking alcohol. "I spoke from a Buddhist principle perspective, not a legal one," he added. When asked about followers, Beer emphasized he does not feel sadness or emotion over the drama and continues his regular teachings. He rejected suggestions to stay silent, saying "Why should I stay quiet when we speak correctly, according to dharma? Whether people forget quickly or slowly is their karma, not mine." Regarding potential lawsuits from fire victims' relatives, Beer said: "Anyone can file suit—that's their right to express their opinion. But as I said, they must accept the consequences of their actions too. If there's ultimately no basis for the case, counter-litigation means they must face the same consequences."

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Community

Slot Machine Bassist Gaek Takes Temporary Leave for Depression Treatment

Bassist Gaek of Thai rock band Slot Machine is taking a temporary leave from performances to receive treatment for depression, with his final show scheduled for the Monster Music Festival on July 26, 2025.

Slot Machine Bassist Gaek Takes Temporary Leave for Depression Treatment
26 Jul Khaosod

Thai rock band Slot Machine has announced that bassist Atheera Pintong (Gaek) is stepping back from all performances temporarily to seek full treatment and recovery for depression. His last show before the hiatus will be at the Monster Music Festival on July 26, 2025. The band confirmed it will continue with scheduled performances, with substitute musicians rotating in, and urged fans to send encouragement to Gaek during his final show and recovery journey. The band statement emphasized that Gaek's physical and mental health recovery is the priority at this time, and thanked fans, media, and event organizers for their understanding and support during this important decision.

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National

True Celebrates First AI Mastery Program For Thai Media

Over 30 Thai journalists completed True Corporation's intensive four-week "AI Mastery for Media" course, learning to use generative AI tools like Claude and Gemini for research, data analysis, and content creation while understanding when h

True Celebrates First AI Mastery Program For Thai Media
26 Jul Khaosod

True Corporation and True Digital Academy, led by Dr. Chonnikan Jira, director of True Digital Academy, celebrated over 30 journalists from Thailand's top news organizations and professional bodies completing the 'AI Mastery for Media by True' course—a specialized program designed for the AI era. Participants completed an intensive four-week Saturday program combining learning, hands-on practice, and real-world application of AI tools.

The curriculum was specifically designed for media professionals, starting with understanding how Generative AI works, selecting appropriate tools for different tasks, and distinguishing between work AI can support and work requiring human judgment, experience, and contextual understanding. Participants learned to write prompts and use Claude for research, data analysis, concept development, and content expansion for news and communications. The program then advanced to practical applications using Gemini Notebook to collect and summarize data from multiple sources, designing AI workflows and automation to reduce repetitive tasks and boost work efficiency.

True Corporation continues leveraging its technology expertise and digital ecosystem to build AI skills among Thai professionals across sectors. True Digital Academy functions beyond a traditional learning institution, connecting technology and solutions to develop curricula that address real workplace needs. The company is expanding access to this knowledge across various professions to help workers increase capability, create opportunities, and drive growth through responsible AI—emphasizing safe, transparent, and accountable use of artificial intelligence technology.

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National

Opposition Leader Hits Back at Bhumjaithai Defamation Threat

Opposition MP Priyst Wachrasindhu challenged Bhumjaithai's defamation threat over senator selection irregularities, countering that accused officials should clarify allegations instead of pursuing lawsuits. He said evidence including financ

Opposition Leader Hits Back at Bhumjaithai Defamation Threat
26 Jul Khaosod

On July 26, 2025, at parliament, Priyst Wachrasindhu, list MP for the Prachathai Party and opposition coalition coordinator, discussed Supachai Jai Samut's announcement that a defamation lawsuit draft over senator selection irregularities was complete, leaving the opposition to prepare its defense. Priyst countered that those being accused by Bhumjaithai should prepare to answer questions instead, noting that the party should clarify allegations regarding Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy PM Somsakdi Thongsri, and other officials.

Priyst expressed confidence that all evidence, including financial records and accommodation bookings, is already in the custody of the Election Commission and DSI. He emphasized that witnesses should answer public questions and pushed back on concerns about witness credibility, stating that evidence extends beyond witness testimony to verifiable financial trails and hotel records. Priyst also defended witnesses who are senate candidates, noting that many are alternates or eliminated candidates with no stake in the outcome.

When asked about the reliability of evidence, particularly witness testimony, Priyst clarified that presented evidence is not limited to personal accounts but includes financial trails, airline booking records, and hotel reservations that are independently verifiable. He argued that the substance of witness statements can be scientifically verified and that accused officials should come forward to clarify rather than pursue legal action, as silence only strengthens public perception of the allegations' credibility.

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Police

Pickup Truck Crashes Into Barrier, Then Hits Roadside Light Pole

A black Chevrolet pickup lost control after the driver sneezed on the Chiang Mai–Hot Road near Samoeng in Hang Dong District, crashing into a barrier and streetlight. The driver sustained minor injuries; a following truck also hit the barri

Pickup Truck Crashes Into Barrier, Then Hits Roadside Light Pole
26 Jul Khaosod

A black Chevrolet pickup truck lost control and crashed into a construction barrier before striking a streetlight in the center median on the Chiang Mai–Hot Road near Samoeng intersection in Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai at 1:00 p.m. on July 25, 2025. Investigation officers from Hang Dong Police Station responded to the scene along with emergency rescue personnel. The driver, a male, reported that he sneezed while driving, which caused him to lose control. He sustained minor chest injuries. A second pickup truck traveling behind struck the barrier that had bounced into the roadway, sustaining minor damage with no further injuries reported. Police are using this incident as a cautionary reminder that accidents can occur in a split second from unexpected causes such as sneezing or loss of road focus. Drivers are advised to exercise caution, maintain safe distances from vehicles ahead, and pull over at a safe location if they feel unfit to continue driving.

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Police

Police Shoot Man After Stabbing Officer in Bangkok

A man stabbed a police officer in Bangkok's Suan Luang district on Friday before officers shot him in the abdomen and thigh; both the suspect and wounded officer were hospitalized.

26 Jul The Thaiger Crime

Police shoot man after Bangkok knife attack on officerLegacyPolice shot a man in Bangkok’s Suan Luang district on Friday, July 24, after he allegedly stabbed an officer during a knife attack that saw him threaten members of the public and try to smash shop windows. Officers from Khlong Tan Police Station were called to the area after reports that an unidentified man armed with a knife was chasing people. When patrol officers attempted to stop him, he allegedly stabbed one of the officers. Police responded by opening fire, hitting the man once in the abdomen and twice in the thigh. Rescue workers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation gave first aid at the scene before the injured man was taken to hospital. The wounded officer was taken to the Police General Hospital for treatment. Police have not released the man’s identity or nationality, and the case remains under investigation. Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail In another separate incident, a Swedish man in Sisaket province suffered a fractured skull and serious head injuries after his Thai uncle-in-law attacked him with a knife, reportedly over the deaths of three chicks. The victim, 61 year old Jimmy, travelled to Bangkok to seek help from the non-profit group Saimai Survive, saying that despite filing a complaint with Khukhan Police Station, the suspect remains free and no compensation has been paid. Jimmy said the dispute began after he accidentally ran over the chicks while driving to a nearby plantation, not realising what had happened until confronted by their owner, Weeraphon. When he attempted to apologise, the uncle allegedly attacked him with a knife before relatives intervened. Jimmy needed 30 stitches and a week of hospital treatment, and says he still suffers numbness and memory problems. He believes older tensions between the families also contributed to the attack. Saimai Survive says it will help pursue legal action. The story Police shoot man after Bangkok knife attack on officer as seen on Thaiger News.

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National

KMITL Hosts Fourth Team Meet & Talk Event Marking 66 Years

KMITL celebrates its 66th anniversary by hosting a community dialogue event to align stakeholders on the institution's future direction while highlighting its rise to fifth place nationally in recent university rankings.

KMITL Hosts Fourth Team Meet & Talk Event Marking 66 Years
26 Jul Khaosod

King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) is hosting the fourth edition of its "KMITL Team Meet & Talk" event to communicate institutional direction, foster participation, and gather input from all segments of the KMITL community—students, staff, and alumni—to collectively chart the institution's sustainable future development. The event will be held at the Activity Area in Building A, Level 1 of the KMITL Lifelong Learning Center (KLLC).

Associate Professor Dr. Komsarn Malisi, KMITL Rector, stated that driving a true innovation university requires collaboration from all sectors, not just one department. Such initiatives are integral to building a complete innovation ecosystem with an open environment that promotes knowledge exchange, diverse perspectives, and integration of knowledge, research, and technology—ultimately leading to innovations addressing industry needs and creating tangible social benefit.

KMLTL has achieved notable international progress, ranking fifth nationally in the THE World University Rankings 2026 Asia (up from eighth in 2025), placing it in the 401-500 range across Asia and 290th in ASEAN. The institution also ranks first in research environment and productivity among Thailand's technology-driven universities. In the 2025 TTU survey, KMITL topped three popular fields: architecture, logistics, and agricultural technology. The 2568 academic year welcomed 9,754 new students (up 13.4 percent), with graduate employment reaching 86.19 percent, reflecting strong industry alignment.

KMLTL is expanding internationally with 828 foreign students from over 44 countries, targeting 900 in the near future through partnerships with leading overseas universities. The institution is enhancing student readiness through AI and coding curricula from first year, upgrading learning spaces, implementing ERP and data management systems, and strengthening cybersecurity. Looking ahead, KMITL will host KMITL EXPO 2026 from September 1-6, 2569, themed "From Lab to Life," commemorating the institution's 66th founding anniversary.

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National

Opposition Leader Unveils Five-Point Plan To Prove Senate Election Fraud

Opposition leader Priset Vachrasindhu presented a five-point plan alleging systematic Senate election fraud in July 2024, claiming candidates were recruited, held at hotels, and instructed how to vote, with named senators and politicians al

Opposition Leader Unveils Five-Point Plan To Prove Senate Election Fraud
26 Jul Khaosod

On July 26, 2025, at Parliament, Priset Vachrasindhu, head of the opposition party coordination committee and Democrat Party list MP, held a forum titled "Two Years After the Senate Election: Deep Dive into Senate Fraud Evidence (Part 2)." Panelists included political science professor Siriphan Nogsuan Sawat from Chulalongkorn University, iLaw director Yingcharoen Atchananont, Democrat Party list MP Satit Wongnongtoey, and several former Senate candidates from Phuket and other provinces.

Priset outlined five key phases of the alleged Senate fraud scheme: (1) Planning to divide teams and control the Senate before May 2024, targeting small provinces with few districts to minimize candidate numbers; (2) Each team recruiting candidates at district, provincial, and national levels between May and June 2024, citing evidence of hired candidacies such as that of Senator Srachad Vicha Suwannaphrom; (3) Gathering and holding candidates at polling centers in provinces like Krung Sri River Hotel in Ayutthaya before the July 24-25 nationwide election, with witnesses reporting involvement of Bhumjai Thai party politicians including former deputy speaker Supachai Pothisu, Sukhothaiist MP Somjet Limpaphan, and former Ayutthaya MP Keuakul Danchaiwijit, and at Tara Grand Hotel in Pathum Thani where politician Somkiat Liangprasith was mentioned; (4) Voting according to ballots and results matching the plan; and (5) Senate orientation in July 2024.

Priset added that beyond party politicians, witnesses reported encountering current senators Sakol Poolsirikiun, Sithikorn Thanyos, and Sommai Srichan from Nakhon Phanom, plus two other senators allegedly seen with retired General Sawasdi Tachana and Senator Nongluk Kamkhaew from Sukhothai. Other senators mentioned include Nathkitti Nuod, Dechsit Chukaew, Somsak Chankhaew from Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Nippon Akwanich from Phuket. Hotel surveillance cameras documented these meetings, and Priset believes investigators can access the footage. Priset acknowledged some allegations require verification but said credible witness testimony supports them. He is formally requesting clarifications from Prime Minister Anuthin Charnweerakul, Deputy PM Thongsak Thongsri, government spokesperson Suksomrwai Wandhaniakul, former speaker Supachai Pothisu, and Somkiat Liangprasith (father of Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liangprasith) regarding their alleged involvement in the Senate election fraud scheme.

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National

Thai Prime Minister's Office Marks 94th Anniversary With Blessing Ceremony

Thailand's Prime Minister's Office celebrated its 94th anniversary with a Buddhist blessing ceremony led by PM Anutin Charnvirakul at Government House on Tuesday, featuring merit-making rituals and contributions to the national Disaster Rel

Thai Prime Minister's Office Marks 94th Anniversary With Blessing Ceremony
26 Jul Khaosod

On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Somdej Phra Phutthacharn (Snit Chuan Panyyo), a member of the Mahatherasangha Council, chief of the Eastern ecclesiastical district, and abbot of Wat Trimitviharn, presided over the monastic side of a Buddhist blessing ceremony commemorating the 94th anniversary of the Prime Minister's Office. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul led the lay participants. Deputy Prime Ministers, cabinet ministers, senior government officials, heads of state agencies, state enterprises, and representatives from public and private sectors participated in the ceremony at the Santitham Building outside Government House.

Secretary-General Yupa Tavivatchakij and Prime Minister's Office administrative staff welcomed delegations from participating organizations who contributed to the office's Disaster Relief Fund. June 28 marks the office's founding anniversary, and 2026 marked the 94th anniversary with the Office of the Secretary-General of the Prime Minister's Office, the Prime Minister's Secretariat, the Cabinet Secretariat, and the Public Relations Department as main organizers.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister lit incense and candles in homage to the Triple Gem and offered robes to ten monks, followed by monks bestowing precepts. The Prime Minister then made merit offerings before a statue of Rama I and offered ten sets of robes. After monks chanted blessings and the Prime Minister poured water in the traditional merit-sharing ritual, officials performed further merit-making ceremonies before monks chanted Buddhist blessings for auspiciousness.

The Prime Minister and cabinet members then offered alms and food to the monks, who offered their blessings in return. The Prime Minister poured water to share merit and received blessed water before paying respects to the Triple Gem and the presiding monk. The office also invited Somdej Phra Maharajmongkhon, assistant abbot of Wat Trimitviharn and a council member, to sprinkle blessed water throughout the office buildings for good fortune.

Participants celebrated the 94th anniversary and contributed to the Disaster Relief Fund to assist disaster victims across the country. The Prime Minister's Office presented a commemorative publication titled "Prime Minister's Office Year 94" detailing the organization's history, vision, mission, structure, and major accomplishments.

The 94th anniversary celebration reflected strong cooperation between the Prime Minister's Office and all participating sectors in government operations, and demonstrated commitment to serving the welfare and benefit of the Thai people and nation.

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