Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Politician Calls for Land Bridge Project Cancellation

A Democratic Party MP calls for cancellation of the Land Bridge project linking the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, after a government committee found it economically unfeasible and a fiscal burden, proposing instead to invest in southern

Politician Calls for Land Bridge Project Cancellation
25 Jul Khaosod

On July 25, Chaiachana Detchdecho, a Democratic Party list MP and deputy southern regional chief, responded after Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithadprasap announced the findings of a committee studying the Land Bridge project—a transport infrastructure initiative to link shipping between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. The committee determined the project has low feasibility, risks burdening the national budget, and carries considerable risk.

Chaiachana thanked the committee for its comprehensive analysis and for reflecting the reality that the Land Bridge is an uneconomical investment for the country. He called on the government and cabinet to seriously consider the committee's findings when deliberating the matter in cabinet meetings.

"When the study clearly shows the project carries high risk and poor economic returns, the government should listen to expert voices and public opinion, and should not proceed with a project that may burden the nation's budget in the future," Chaiachana said.

He proposed redirecting the Land Bridge budget to develop southern rail infrastructure by accelerating rail connections to major southern ports—Padang Besar, Kantang, and Ranong—and expanding rail links to ports nationwide to boost logistics capacity, reduce transport costs, and strengthen national competitiveness.

Chaiachana also proposed developing Thungsong District in Nakhon Si Thammarat as a regional cargo distribution and inland container depot hub, similar to Ladkrabang, to efficiently link rail, road, and maritime transport.

"Future large government projects must be based on careful analysis, economic value, and public input," Chaiachana said. "We must thank the committee for listening to the people and urge the government to do the same, because every baht is public tax money that must deliver maximum benefit."

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Police

Ranger Officer Found Dead in Barracks After Decade of Depression

A 49-year-old deputy ranger commander in Narathiwat died by suicide after a decade-long battle with depression, investigators said. The officer was found dead in his barracks with a gunshot wound on July 24.

Ranger Officer Found Dead in Barracks After Decade of Depression
25 Jul Khaosod

On July 24, Col. Withaya Sarinya, commander of Ranger Group 45, reported that a junior ranger officer at Company 4511's base in Samao village, Bongo subdistrict, Rangae district, Narathiwat, took his own life in his quarters. Officers found the 49-year-old deputy company commander with a gunshot wound beneath his chin. A 5.56-millimeter rifle and one spent cartridge casing were found near his body.

Investigators determined the death resulted from severe, long-term depression unrelated to stress from recent militant attacks that killed five ranger soldiers. The officer had served with Ranger Group 45 for over 20 years, starting as a volunteer and rising to commissioned rank. A native of Surat Thani, he had married a woman from Yala and fathered two children. He had been receiving continuous treatment for depression for more than ten years.

The officer's remains are held at Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Hospital. Relatives plan to collect his body on Sunday, July 26, 2025, to conduct funeral rites according to custom in Yala Province.

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Police

Man Shot Dead in Ambush Attack in Yala

A 31-year-old man was shot dead in an ambush attack in Yala's Bannang Sata district on July 25. Police are investigating the motive and searching for the shooter.

Man Shot Dead in Ambush Attack in Yala
25 Jul Khaosod

At 6:50 a.m. on July 25, 2025, Deputy Investigation Inspector Suriya Keudham of Bannang Sata Police Station, Yala province, received a report from village security volunteers stating that an armed assailant had shot and killed a resident in Moo 10, Talin Chan subdistrict, Bannang Sata district, Yala province. Police immediately notified their commanding officer and rushed to investigate the scene.

Initial investigations identified the victim as Guba Ha, 31 years old, who was fatally shot. Following the incident, police officers, rescue units, and relevant agencies cordoned off the area, examined the crime scene, collected evidence, and launched an urgent investigation into the cause while pursuing the perpetrator for legal prosecution.

Authorities are currently investigating the motive and details of the attack. Further details will be released once clearer information is obtained.

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Police

Five Foreign Women Arrested for Street Prostitution in Bangkok

Five foreign women were arrested for soliciting customers on a Bangkok street on July 25, with authorities charging them under anti-trafficking laws and initiating deportation proceedings.

Five Foreign Women Arrested for Street Prostitution in Bangkok
25 Jul Khaosod

Police arrested five foreign women for soliciting customers along Sukhumvit Soi 4 in Bangkok's Khlong Toei district on July 25, 2025, following reports and social media videos of the group approaching tourists on public sidewalks. Officers from Lumphini Police Station, the Department of Women's Affairs and Family Development, and the Immigration Bureau coordinated a surveillance operation and apprehended the suspects—three Vietnamese women, one transgender woman from the Philippines, and one woman from Tanzania.

The suspects were charged under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act for soliciting and luring customers in a manner that causes public disturbance and shame. Immigration officials initiated forced guardianship proceedings and have begun deportation and visa cancellation processes. All five have been referred to the Immigration Bureau's Suan Phlu office and placed on a blacklist, permanently banning them from entering Thailand.

Police and the Department of Women's Affairs announced they will establish ongoing coordination between Lumphini Police Station, the Department of Women's Affairs and Family Development, and the Immigration Bureau to jointly crack down on foreign nationals engaged in prostitution, integrating resources from all relevant agencies.

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National

Gold Prices Edge Up Slightly on July 25

Gold prices in Thailand rose modestly on July 25, with ornamental bars climbing 50 baht to 65,600 baht per gram as global spot prices held steady at $4,060 per ounce.

Gold Prices Edge Up Slightly on July 25
25 Jul Khaosod

Gold prices on July 25, 2026 rose slightly, with ornamental gold bars selling at 65,600 baht per gram, up 50 baht from the previous day's close, according to the Thai Gold Traders Association's announcement published at 9:00 AM. Bullion bars are trading at 64,600 baht per gram for buyback and 64,800 baht per gram for sales, while 96.5% ornamental gold is being bought at 63,308.16 baht per gram and sold at 65,600 baht per gram. Global spot gold prices are holding steady at $4,060 per ounce, with market analysts suggesting that rising U.S. government bond yields are exerting downward pressure on gold prices in the short term.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Government Opens Energy Efficiency Investment Support Program

Thailand's energy department is offering businesses up to 3 million baht in co-investment support to upgrade machinery and equipment for energy efficiency, with applications open until July 31, 2026.

Government Opens Energy Efficiency Investment Support Program
25 Jul Khaosod

The Department of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency invites factories, controlled buildings, community enterprises, startups, agricultural operators, and energy technology innovators to join an investment support program for upgrading and improving machinery, materials, and equipment for energy conservation. Participants receive co-investment support of 20% or 30% based on applicant category, with maximum funding of 3 million baht per applicant. Eligible equipment includes high-efficiency chillers, air compressors, plastic injection molders, boilers, high-efficiency motors, cooling towers, speed control systems, automated control systems, and thermal insulation. The program benefits businesses that want to reduce energy expenses, improve machinery and production efficiency, lower long-term operational costs, and advance toward sustainable energy practices. Applications close on July 31, 2026. For guidelines and application submission, contact the Department of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency or scan the QR code on promotional posters. Do not miss this opportunity to upgrade machinery, reduce costs, and strengthen your business competitiveness. Contact: Central Region, Northern Region, and Northeast Region Coordination Unit (08-6785-6108, 09-2383-7625).

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National

iLaw Director Hires Lawyer After Defamation Complaint Filed

iLaw director Yingluck Shinawatra hired a lawyer after a government minister filed a defamation complaint against him over alleged statements linking her to vote-buying operations.

iLaw Director Hires Lawyer After Defamation Complaint Filed
25 Jul Khaosod

On July 25, 2025, Yingluck Shinawatra, director of the Internet for People Law Project (iLaw), posted on Facebook appointing Anon Namphya as his lawyer. He stated that the lawyer's appointment letter is prepared and awaiting the date and plaintiff's name, adding a humorous remark that "this lawyer seems to like traveling to the northeastern region too."

According to reports, on July 24, Suksamruay Wantaniyakul, a government minister and MP for Amnatcharoen District 1 representing the Bhumjaithai Party, filed a defamation complaint against Yingluck for allegedly making statements linking her to vote-buying operations. Prime Minister Anuthawit Chanchaiwerakul and Interior Minister, as Bhumjaithai Party leader, announced they have also instructed their lawyers to proceed with lawsuits.

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Weather

Thailand Weather Alert: Heavy Rain Expected Across 41 Provinces

Heavy rain is expected across 41 Thai provinces from July 26-30, with the Northeast, Central, Eastern, and Western Southern regions facing very heavy downpours that could trigger sudden floods in hilly and low-lying areas. The Andaman Sea w

Thailand Weather Alert: Heavy Rain Expected Across 41 Provinces
25 Jul Khaosod

The Thai Meteorological Department issued the fourth heavy rainfall warning (No. 131/2569) on July 25, 2025, effective July 26–30. During this period, Thailand will experience heavy rain in many areas, with very heavy rainfall in parts of the Northeast, Central, Eastern, and Western Southern regions due to a monsoon trough and intensifying Southwest monsoon winds. The public is advised to be cautious of heavy rainfall accumulation that could trigger sudden floods and flash floods, particularly in hilly areas and low-lying regions.

The Andaman Sea's upper section will see moderately strong waves of 2–3 meters, exceeding 3 meters during thunderstorms. The upper Gulf of Thailand and lower Andaman Sea will have waves around 2 meters, exceeding 2 meters during storms. Boat operators are urged to exercise caution and avoid areas with thunderstorms. Small boats in the upper Andaman should not venture out during this period.

Tropical cyclone Noul is expected to make landfall near Guangdong Province, China, on July 26 and will not enter Thailand. Travelers to affected Chinese regions should check weather conditions beforehand.

The meteorological department advises the public to plan activities and travel carefully during this period and to monitor updates via the department's website (tmd.go.th) or call 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182 available 24 hours. The next warning will be issued on July 25 at 5:00 PM.

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Police

Thai Military Confirms Investigation Into Officer's Death in Narathiwat

A second lieutenant with Thailand's 45th Ranger Regiment was found dead in his quarters at a military base in Narathiwat Province on July 24; the military has launched an investigation into the death while pledging support for the officer's

Thai Military Confirms Investigation Into Officer's Death in Narathiwat
24 Jul Khaosod

The Internal Security Command, Region 4 Forward, expressed deep condolences over the loss of military personnel and confirmed an investigation into the officer's death, pledging full care for the family. On July 24, 2025, a second lieutenant serving as deputy commander of the 4511 Ranger Company, Special Task Unit, 45th Ranger Regiment, was found dead in his private quarters at a military base in Ban Samao, Bongo Subdistrict, Rangae District, Narathiwat Province. Following the discovery, commanders coordinated with police, medical personnel, and relevant agencies to investigate the scene and initiate legal procedures. Evidence gathering and fact-checking are currently underway, and authorities have not yet determined the cause of death. The Royal Thai Army and Region 4 Forward command expressed condolences for the loss of the service member and confirmed they will provide full care and support to the deceased's family, including benefits and compensation according to civil service regulations. The command also pledged to monitor the mental well-being and morale of troops in the unit. A careful, transparent, and fair investigation will be conducted to provide the public with accurate information based on evidence and proper legal processes.

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Police

Gang of Teens Hurls Firecrackers at Bangkok Community

A gang of teenagers on motorcycles has attacked a Bangkok housing estate nearly a dozen times in recent months, throwing firecrackers over walls into homes at night, with incidents now occurring weekly in what residents fear could escalate

Gang of Teens Hurls Firecrackers at Bangkok Community
24 Jul Khaosod

On July 24, 2025, residents of Sukniwet 7 housing estate in Bangkok's Thung Khru district reported a spate of attacks by teenagers on motorcycles who throw ping-pong firecrackers over the compound walls into random homes late at night. On the night of July 23, two firecrackers landed in front of a residence around 11:30 p.m., with one detonating and one failing to ignite; both were wrapped in yellow electrical tape. A 20-year-old resident named Chakkrapop said he heard the explosion as he was parking his car and discovered the two devices when he came out to investigate. The community surveillance camera captured footage of the incident.

Neighbors confirmed the attacks have happened nearly 10 times, initially spaced 1–2 months apart but now occurring almost weekly, with perpetrators sometimes throwing 2 to 5–6 firecrackers or occasionally larger explosives, apparently at random targets to terrorize the entire neighborhood. Intelligence suggests the teenagers may include a former schoolmate of one resident with whom they once had conflicts; that student transferred schools mid-year due to the group's violent behavior.

The attacks have created intense fear among residents, especially families with children and the elderly, who worry that without swift police action, the violence could escalate to serious injury. Residents have called on police to urgently track down and prosecute the perpetrators and increase security measures in the area.

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National

Heavy Rain Floods Buriram City Streets, Residents Face 9 Floods Yearly

Heavy rainfall flooded multiple streets in Buriram Municipality on July 24, with water reaching 50+ centimeters depth. Residents face an average of nine flooding incidents yearly, attributed to clogged drainage pipes filled with waste and g

Heavy Rain Floods Buriram City Streets, Residents Face 9 Floods Yearly
24 Jul Khaosod

Residents in Buriram Municipality have been hit hard by heavy rainfall lasting more than an hour on July 24, 2569, which sent floodwaters surging across multiple streets and into homes on both sides of the roads. People scrambled to move valuables to higher ground as flooding has become a regular occurrence, averaging nine times annually, with three to four incidents already in 2569.

The downpour, which began in the evening, caused water to accumulate to depths exceeding 50 centimeters on numerous roads, including Saensuk, Chira, Sunthontep, Lak Muang, Anuwat, Nakhon, Injanthon Nrong, and Thani streets—all low-lying areas awaiting water drainage. Saensuk Road, particularly near Buriram Teacher's Credit Union, regularly floods 30-50 centimeters deep for distances of 300 meters or more, extending to the bus station entrance. This causes constant hardship for residents, with vehicle traffic severely hampered.

On Chira Road, spanning from Vienna intersection near Klang Temple to Buriram City Police Station, the Public Health Office, and the provincial administrative office, floodwaters reached depths of at least 50 centimeters over a distance exceeding one kilometer. Dozens of vehicles parked on both sides were damaged, with residents having to push them to higher ground. Homes on both sides of Chira Road were also inundated, with overflow from drainage pipes and waves from passing vehicles flooding dwellings and forcing residents to urgently evacuate electrical appliances and important belongings.

Authorities suspect the flooding stems from blocked drainage pipes clogged with waste, garbage, and plastic bags, preventing normal water drainage. Residents say this type of flooding occurs on average at least nine times yearly, with this being the worst incident to date. Three to four similar events have already happened this year, with some homes experiencing flooding of 20 centimeters or more. One elderly resident broke down in tears, saying the repeated flooding has become unbearable, questioning why rain keeps falling on the city instead of the fields, and lamenting the exhausting cleanup efforts they must undertake after each incident.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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