Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Russian Wanted in 600,000 Baht Phuket Mall Safe Theft

Police have issued an arrest warrant for a 47-year-old Russian man accused of stealing approximately 600,000 baht from a currency exchange shop at a Phuket mall on July 19. Vitalii Kobin, who allegedly broke into a safe and fled the scene,

Russian Wanted in 600,000 Baht Phuket Mall Safe Theft
30 Jul Khaosod

PHUKET — Police have obtained an arrest warrant for a 47-year-old Russian man accused of breaking into a currency exchange shop at a major shopping mall and stealing around 600,000 baht in cash.

The burglary occurred on 19 July at a foreign currency exchange shop inside a major shopping mall in Wichit subdistrict, Mueang Phuket district. The suspect allegedly broke into the shop's office, opened a safe, and took approximately 600,000 baht before fleeing.

Pol Col Somsak Thongkliang, chief of Wichit Police Station, said investigators had gathered sufficient evidence to identify the suspect. Phuket Provincial Court issued an arrest warrant on 27 July.

The suspect was identified as Vitalii Kobin, a 47-year-old Russian national. He is facing charges of nighttime theft involving the use of a vehicle to facilitate the crime, transport stolen property, or evade arrest.

Investigators believe Kobin planned the burglary meticulously, including disguising himself to avoid detection and using a vehicle to escape after the theft. Police also discovered that Kobin had overstayed his permitted stay in Thailand since 2025.

Authorities believe the suspect may still be hiding and moving around somewhere in Thailand. Police are actively searching for him and coordinating with relevant agencies to locate, arrest, and bring him to justice.

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National

Plus Property Expands Luxury Management Services in Phuket

Plus Property is expanding its luxury property management services in Phuket, taking on management of The Standard Phuket while developing complementary services like smart parking and concierge offerings to build a comprehensive residentia

Plus Property Expands Luxury Management Services in Phuket
30 Jul Khaosod

Plus Property sees the property management market continuing to expand from both new real estate projects needing professional oversight and existing projects seeking quality upgrades to stay competitive. The company is aggressively targeting the luxury segment by taking on management of The Standard Phuket, while developing structural engineering, concierge, and smart parking services to build a comprehensive living ecosystem for long-term growth.

On July 30, Plus Property managing director Suwarnnee Mahonrangchai stated that property management continues to grow steadily, enabling the company to maintain revenue and profit targets in the first half of the year. She explained that customer confidence built over 30 years stems from management that preserves project value through building standards, common areas, quality community building, and enhanced living experiences—factors critical to project viability and long-term property value.

Diversifying consumer behavior has made property management increasingly important, particularly among pet owners, seniors, and sustainability-focused residents. Developers establish product quality foundations, while property management companies execute these concepts through services and operations.

In the second half of the year, Plus Property will push further into luxury management by raising staff capabilities through PLUS EDUPLEX, Thailand's first institution authorized to teach CTH (Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality) hospitality curricula. Training will occur in quarters two and three to deliver international-standard service for luxury clients.

The company recently secured management of The Standard Phuket, marking a major milestone in expanding into branded residences and reinforcing its luxury management expertise. It is also growing Touch Property, a building engineering firm that has tripled this year due to demand for building maintenance and improvements, while expanding Plus Concierge networks to enhance residential services.

LIV-24, a subsidiary, is expanding LIV-PARK smart parking after opening its first Donmueang location, with plans for central business district expansion and a parking-finder app launching in quarter three. The company is also exploring non-core business opportunities to drive long-term revenue growth and complete its residential ecosystem.

Currently, Plus Property manages over 440 projects covering more than 100,000 families nationwide, with customer satisfaction exceeding 91% last year, reflecting strong client confidence.

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Tourism

Bangkok Woman's Debt Forgiven Within a Month After Temple Offering

A Bangkok woman cleared over 500,000 baht in debts within a month after making offerings at a shrine dedicated to Grandfather Hermit Brahma-Mage in Ayutthaya, crediting the hermit and resident deities with her rapid financial relief.

Bangkok Woman's Debt Forgiven Within a Month After Temple Offering
30 Jul Khaosod

A Bangkok woman reported that after making an offering of 500 pumpkins and 99 garland wreaths to Grandfather Hermit Brahma-Mage at Dhatu Phuthagun Hermitage in Bang Thai District, Ayutthaya, she successfully cleared over 500,000 baht in informal debts within less than a month. Ms. Phusadee, 44, explained that after visiting the shrine to seek help with her debt, she returned home and saw her wishes fulfilled quickly. She subsequently made additional offerings and rented blessing statues as gratitude to the hermit and other deities at the shrine for her good fortune.

The hermitage, which sits among sacred shrines including a nine-faced statue of Phra Vessuwan 16 meters tall, Goddess Takian, and other revered figures, draws continuous streams of worshippers and visitors seeking blessings. In the merit pavilion in front of Grandfather Hermit Brahma-Mage, fortune-seekers traditionally read numbers reflected in the sacred water basin, with lottery numbers such as 1-9-5-3 and 4 appearing to observers on July 30, 2025.

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National

Thailand Targets Mexico Construction Market Amid Industrial Park Expansion

Thailand's Commerce Ministry is targeting construction material exports to Mexico, where the sector is booming with 128 new industrial parks planned through 2031. Strong demand for steel, machinery, and building systems presents significant

Thailand Targets Mexico Construction Market Amid Industrial Park Expansion
30 Jul Khaosod

Thailand's Commerce Ministry is targeting construction material exports to Mexico, capitalizing on the country's expanding industrial park development. Sunanta Kangwaligulkij, director-general of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) under the Commerce Ministry, announced that she has directed commercial attachés worldwide to accelerate the expansion of Thai goods and services according to Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthummaphan's policy. The ministry recently received a report from Kannika Kakaardi, director of the Trade Promotion Office in Mexico City, on Mexico's construction sector, which shows continuous growth potential and opportunities for Thai construction material exports.

Thai trade officials report that Mexico's construction sector is recovering following infrastructure investments, industrial area development, and expansion of the logistics sector. This growth is driving related businesses including construction, construction materials, machinery, and supporting industries. According to Mexico's National Institute of Statistics (INEGI), industrial activity in Mexico expanded 1.8% year-on-year in April 2026 and grew 2.1% month-on-month, with the construction sector as the primary growth driver, expanding 10.2% annually and 7.6% monthly—outpacing manufacturing's 1.2% growth while mining and utilities continue to slow.

A key factor propelling Mexico's construction sector is the restructuring of supply chains and investment to decentralize manufacturing across North America, driving increased demand for industrial space and production support systems. Mexico's Private Industrial Park Association (AMPIP) plans to develop 128 new industrial parks between 2024 and 2031, valued at approximately $6.2–8.6 billion, to support manufacturing and domestic and foreign investment. These projects include industrial parks, factories, warehouses, distribution centers, commercial buildings, data centers, transportation infrastructure, and energy and utility systems.

The government also supports development through transportation and infrastructure projects, including connection routes, rail systems, ports, and new economic zones, which boost demand for related goods and services such as steel, metal products, construction materials, electrical systems, sanitary fixtures, construction equipment, machinery, air-conditioning systems, automation, and interior finishing. Meanwhile, the private sector increasingly prioritizes energy-efficient construction, cost reduction, and long-term building management, driving demand for value-added materials and technologies.

"Mexico's construction and infrastructure expansion represents an opportunity for Thai entrepreneurs across multiple industries, not only construction material manufacturers but also building decoration producers, electrical system providers, air-conditioning manufacturers, plumbing fixture makers, construction machinery producers, and industrial parts manufacturers," the ministry stated. "Market demand extends beyond new construction projects to system installation, building efficiency upgrades, and industrial area improvements for long-term operational capacity."

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Tourism

Phuket Welcomes 7 Million Visitors in First Half of 2026

Phuket attracted nearly 7 million visitors in the first half of 2026, generating 263 billion baht in tourism revenue, with additional gains expected from domestic travel over the holiday period.

Phuket Welcomes 7 Million Visitors in First Half of 2026
30 Jul The Phuket News

PHUKET: Phuket welcomed almost 7 million visitors in the first six months of 2026, generating B263 billion in tourism revenue, while strong domestic travel over the current three-day public holiday is expected to contribute a further B329.7mn to the islands economy, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

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National

Thai YouTuber Hlun Solo Dies, Mourned by Fans

Popular Thai YouTuber Hlun Solo, known for his humble background and authentic content that contrasted with typical influencers, has died at age 25, sparking widespread mourning among his devoted fanbase.

Thai YouTuber Hlun Solo Dies, Mourned by Fans
30 Jul The Phuket Express

The Phuket Express -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Thailand/Georgia His real name was Bowornthat Pengsuk, born in 1999 in Kalasin province in northeastern Thailand, he grew up in modest circumstances. After his father died, he was raised primarily by his grandmother, who focused on education and practical values. He attended local schools that offered scholarships and support, then worked factory jobs in Bangkok, […] Hlun Solo’s Death Devastates Fans, We Explain Why He Was The Exact Opposite of Most Influencers and YouTubers and Why He Was So Beloved by Thais -=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=- The Phuket Express - Real. Unbiased. Impactful. In the moment.

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National

PM Anutin Walks With Piphath to Quell Coalition Tensions

Prime Minister Anutin displayed public solidarity with Deputy PM Piphath at a merit-making ceremony in July, walking arm-in-arm and joking with reporters in an apparent effort to dismiss coalition tensions. Anutin emphasized cabinet unity a

PM Anutin Walks With Piphath to Quell Coalition Tensions
30 Jul Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul displayed public solidarity with Deputy Prime Minister Piphath Ratchakij and his wife Nathi at a 50-day merit-making ceremony dedicated to late Princess Bajrakitiyabha on July 30, 2025. During the event, Anutin handed Piphath a temple amulet in front of cameras, and later walked arm-in-arm with him while joking to reporters: "See? Two deputies and one first lady." When asked if the display was meant to quell rumors of tension, both men laughed before Anutin noted it was a religious holiday.

Anutin dismissed criticism about government relations, saying the cabinet is united in its mission to advance the nation. He emphasized that the government welcomes constructive criticism and acts on helpful feedback, but called on critics to use the justice system rather than personal opinions to judge government actions. He added that every cabinet member is working effectively across all sectors, citing examples such as resource and environment minister Suchath Chomklin's efforts to combat illegal logging in Phuket alongside deputy PM Phakaorn Nilapraband's legal interpretation work.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Over 5,300 Visitors Flock to Thai Nature Parks for Royal Birthday

Over 5,300 visitors explored Thailand's 37 national recreation forests during the royal birthday celebration, with entrance fees waived at seven sites to promote conservation-focused tourism and forest preservation.

Over 5,300 Visitors Flock to Thai Nature Parks for Royal Birthday
30 Jul Khaosod

Over 5,300 Visitors Flock to Thai Nature Parks for Royal Birthday

On July 30, 2024, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchat Chomklin announced the success of his conservation-focused tourism initiative, which offers the public access to natural attractions while promoting forest preservation. The ministry tasked the Forestry Department with developing all 37 national recreation forests nationwide into quality nature tourism destinations and waived entrance fees at seven facilities during the royal birthday period to encourage families to spend time in nature.

Suchat revealed that the 37 national recreation forests across Thailand welcomed a combined 5,315 visitors and tourists during the July 28 royal birthday celebration, demonstrating the success of conservation tourism policies and appropriate public access to natural areas. The three most popular recreation forests were Bok Luek in Ubon Ratchathani, Hin Sam Wale in Bueng Kan, and Khao Ito Waterfall in Prachuap Khiri Khan.

Other acclaimed natural attractions drawing steady visitor interest include Aiyerweng Sea Mist in Yala, Khao Soon in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Bo Sip Song in Phayao, and Dong Roi Thao Arkhosawr in Phetchabun, all serving as distinctive and resource-rich natural learning sites.

Suchat emphasized that conservation tourism not only provides recreation and ecological education but also generates income, stimulates grassroots economies through local goods and services, and enables community participation in sustainable resource management. "The ministry will continue promoting conservation tourism to ensure Thai citizens can access natural sites under management that balances ecosystem health with sustainable resource use, creating prosperity for people and strength for local communities alike," he said.

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National

Ubon Airport Sets Passenger Record During Long Holiday

Ubon Ratchathani Airport set a new passenger record with nearly 5,000 travelers on a single day during the extended holiday period that included the King's Birthday and the Ubon Candle Festival.

Ubon Airport Sets Passenger Record During Long Holiday
30 Jul Khaosod

Transport Deputy Minister Pattrapong Pattharapredit reported that Ubon Ratchathani Airport has broken its all-time passenger record during the recent extended holiday period coinciding with the King's Birthday, Asalha Bucha, and Buddhist Lent, when many people traveled home or visited tourist destinations. The Airports of Thailand has ordered all regional airports to provide convenient services while maintaining strict safety and security standards, including regular checks of x-ray machines, CCTV cameras, electrical systems, and passenger terminal facilities. Staff have been deployed at adequate levels, especially during peak hours, to manage passenger flow and reduce congestion, while airport traffic has been optimized to prevent delays.

Statistics show that Ubon Ratchathani Airport recorded its highest daily passenger count at 4,931 travelers on July 28, 2025, coinciding with the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, one of Thailand's most celebrated local traditions held from July 28-30. The airport coordinated with local transport offices and the Tourism Authority of Thailand Udon Thani office to provide free shuttle services for festival visitors. The deputy minister invited the public to explore regional traditions and cultural activities nationwide to stimulate the economy and distribute income to communities, aligning with the "Airport for Regional Development" policy to elevate regional airports as engines for economic growth, tourism, and transport.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Chulalongkorn Alumni Seek Help for Hlun Solo's Family

Chulalongkorn University alumni are seeking help protecting the family of deceased content creator Hlun Solo, who had over 900,000 YouTube subscribers, with urgent needs including body repatriation from Georgia and securing his digital asse

Chulalongkorn Alumni Seek Help for Hlun Solo's Family
30 Jul Khaosod

On July 30, 2025, Kritsada Bunyruang, a Class 32 alumnus of Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Political Science, submitted an urgent letter to the university's alumni association requesting special assistance in supporting the family of Bowortthat Pengsuk, known as Hlun Solo, a Class 71 alumnus. The letter asks the alumni association to serve as the family's primary contact and advocate, particularly on two critical matters.

First, coordinating the rights of the deceased in a foreign jurisdiction and arranging repatriation to Thailand. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its Consular Affairs Department and the Thai Embassy in Ankara (which oversees Georgia), is currently working with Georgian police on autopsy results and consular death certificate documentation. However, due to distance and Georgian legal procedures, the writer requests the alumni association's help in closely monitoring and coordinating with both the family and the Foreign Ministry, particularly if obstacles arise regarding documentation, translation, funeral arrangements, or transporting the body back to Thailand.

Second, protecting digital asset rights and income from YouTube (Google AdSense) and Facebook. Bowortthat was a renowned creator whose Hlun Solo YouTube channel has over 900,000 subscribers and Facebook fan page has 2.5 million followers. Since he may not have left a will or designated financial beneficiaries, the family risks losing channel rights and unpaid income if they do not act quickly according to platform policies. Under Thai law and Google policy, heirs must petition the court to appoint an estate administrator, then submit the court order and death certificate via an official form to claim channel management rights and unpaid earnings—and they must maintain channel activity within six months to avoid losing monetization status. Similarly, for the Facebook fan page and account, the family must submit a request form with the death certificate and court-appointed estate administrator order to request a status change for the account.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

PM Approves Call for Election Commission Probe into Lawmaker Donations

The Prime Minister backed an Election Commission investigation into whether donations to independent candidates by Bhumjaithai party members constitute illegal vote-buying, delegating responsibility to the party's legal counsel to ensure co

PM Approves Call for Election Commission Probe into Lawmaker Donations
30 Jul Khaosod

On July 30, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister, speaking as leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, addressed a request by Supachai Jai Samut, a party-list MP and the party's legal counsel, asking the Election Commission (EC) to investigate whether donations to a group of independent candidates constitute illegal vote-buying. Anutin expressed support for this approach, noting that Supachai is performing his duty as the party's legal representative.

When asked if the government would green-light legal action if violations were found, the Prime Minister replied that it is Supachai's responsibility to ensure correctness and protect the party and its members from any legal fallout. Anutin emphasized that the government operates with full transparency and has disclosed all relevant information, noting that media outlets have even suggested he speaks too much.

Regarding whether the core issue hinges on financial links and whether nine Bhumjaithai politicians and ministers could avoid liability if no connection to them can be established, Anutin declined to comment further. He stated that the case is already in legal proceedings, and since he himself is reportedly involved, he cannot discuss details without potentially compromising the case. He reiterated that the government respects the law and is simply allowing the judicial process to proceed without bias or slander.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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