Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Surin Residents Denied Welfare Card Over Vehicle Records They Don't Own

Surin residents are being denied welfare cards due to vehicle ownership records they don't actually own, with some vehicles fraudulently registered or registered decades ago to help family members make payments.

Surin Residents Denied Welfare Card Over Vehicle Records They Don't Own
20 Jul Khaosod

On July 20, residents of Surin who were denied state welfare cards gathered at the Surin Provincial Transport Office in Muang district to verify vehicle ownership records with transport authorities. Transport Chief Sahanat Kampun arranged vehicle registration staff to assist with data verification. Officials found that many people were listed as owners of old vehicles they did not possess, some had been fraudulently registered without their knowledge, and others had put vehicles in their names to help children make payments. The Department of Transport has submitted the issue to the Ministry of Finance to determine how to resolve it, and the matter is currently under review.

When interviewed, 73-year-old Niam from Phiayram subdistrict said she was denied benefits because she was recorded as owning two motorcycles. In reality, she owns only a bicycle for traveling to rice fields and temples. She has never owned a motorcycle in her life and cannot understand how her name came to be listed as an owner. Phueng, 64, from Muang Thip subdistrict, said the system shows he owns a car—which he does, a very old one purchased in 1993. He was disqualified for having it and asked for new criteria to be considered. He added that even his 77-year-old sister, who is disabled and bedridden, was disqualified, forcing him to handle her appeal, though he does not know if it will be approved.

Porn, 66, from Khokho subdistrict, said the system lists her as owning a motorcycle that is now scrap metal. She complained that the government has made life difficult for ordinary people like her who earn just enough to survive day to day, and that verifying these matters wastes her working time. She appealed to the government to investigate actual living conditions or allow relevant ministries to inspect homes to verify genuine poverty, noting that some civil servants still receive benefits while truly poor people do not. She urged swift resolution.

Regarding owning two motorcycles and failing the criteria, one woman noted the government did not inform her beforehand. She previously held the card but it was revoked. She registered two motorcycles 20 years ago so her children could use them and pay installments themselves; one is now a tuk-tuk and the other her child uses for work. She did not expect such rules. She owns only vehicles and no other assets—just a modest roof-damaged house and two old bicycles. She sarcastically said she has now become rich overnight, rich in name only, as a coconut vendor selling roasted young coconuts. She questioned how she is supposed to carry 10 coconuts over 10 kilometers to the market and when the government will address this.

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Police

Explosion at NGV Gas Station Kills One in Si Racha

An explosion at an NGV gas station in Si Racha killed one person who was trapped inside and struck by collapsing walls on July 20. Rescue teams responded to the incident as authorities investigate the cause.

Explosion at NGV Gas Station Kills One in Si Racha
20 Jul Khaosod

On July 20, 2025, an explosion occurred inside an NGV gas pump station in Bo Win subdistrict, Si Racha district, Chachoengsao province, trapping one person inside the building who was struck by collapsing walls. The condition of the trapped person was initially unknown, causing alarm among people in the area. After receiving the alert, rescue officers from Seal Dharma Bo Win station, along with volunteers and relevant agencies, rushed to investigate the scene and plan an urgent rescue operation. The area was cordoned off to prevent additional hazards. Officials are currently investigating the cause of the explosion and assessing the damage. It was later confirmed that the person trapped inside had died after being crushed by falling building walls. Further updates on injuries and additional damage will be reported as more information becomes available.

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National

MMA Association Chief Becomes First Candidate for Thai Sports Authority Director

MMA Association chairman Siriches Pooltipayanont becomes the first candidate to apply for Thailand's Sports Authority director position, with applications open through July 29, 2026.

MMA Association Chief Becomes First Candidate for Thai Sports Authority Director
20 Jul Khaosod

Siriches Pooltipayanont, chairman of the Thailand Mixed Martial Arts Association (MMA), has become the first candidate to submit an application for the position of director of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT). The SAT opened applications for candidates seeking selection for the director position following the current director, Dr. Kong Sakda Yodmani, whose term ends on September 30, 2026. Applicants can submit their applications and supporting documents in person or through an authorized representative at the SAT human resources department, floor 6, by calling 02-1867111 extensions 1217 or 7950 between July 15-29, 2026 during business hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), or by email to hrm@sat.or.th from July 15-29, 2026 by 4:30 p.m. As of July 20, 2026, Siriches Pooltipayanont, chairman of the Thailand Mixed Martial Arts Association, submitted his application to become SAT director as the first candidate. The application period remains open until July 29, 2026.

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National

Homebuilder Seecon Opens Chachoengsao Service Center

Custom home builder Seecon has opened its fifth service center in Chachoengsao to tap demand from the Eastern Economic Corridor, targeting 100 million baht in first-year sales after securing two house orders worth 14 million baht on opening

Homebuilder Seecon Opens Chachoengsao Service Center
20 Jul Khaosod

Seecon, a custom home builder, is accelerating its expansion into the Eastern Region by officially opening the "Seecon Custom Home Building Center Bangsaen-Chachoengsao," its fifth service center, to tap demand in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The company has set a first-year sales target of 100 million baht and received two house orders on opening day valued at 4 million and 10 million baht respectively, after establishing its business foundation in Bangkok and surrounding areas for over 65 years.

Managing Director Manu Trakulgodkij of Seecon Limited explained that Chachoengsao was chosen as the starting point due to its high economic potential, large population base, and benefits from EEC investments including U-Tapao Airport, high-speed rail connecting three airports, aircraft maintenance facilities, and government-promoted Data Center projects worth tens of billions of baht. Although Seecon previously entered the Chachoengsao market, the company had withdrawn to strengthen its Bangkok operations before returning with improved experience, personnel, and production systems.

The company targets first-year sales of 100 million baht in the EEC area, nearly doubling from its current base, with an estimated 20 homes per year and first-year revenue recognition of 50-60 million baht, as the home-building business recognizes revenue progressively based on construction progress rather than full contract value immediately. Prior to opening the new center, Seecon had already been constructing 15-20 homes annually across Chachoengsao, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat, generating approximately 50-60 million baht per year or about 5% of the company's total annual sales of 1,100-1,200 million baht.

Average house prices in the Chachoengsao area range from 4-5 million baht per unit, compared to the more diverse Bangkok market where Seecon builds homes starting at 2 million baht up to 50 million baht, with an average of approximately 6 million baht per unit.

Managing Director Manu stated that expansion into the EEC extends beyond Chachoengsao to encompass the entire Eastern Economic Zone including Rayong, Chachoengsao, and nearby provinces such as Chanthaburi and Trat, which hold significant growth potential. Seecon chose the name "Seecon Custom Home Building Center Bangsaen-Chachoengsao" rather than "branch" to reflect a comprehensive service center covering design, consultation, and construction management.

Currently, Seecon operates five service centers: Srinakarin, Bangkae, Chaengwattana, Ramintra, and Bangsaen-Chachoengsao.

The company highlighted its two in-house precast concrete manufacturing plants as a competitive advantage. Managing Director Manu noted that producing precast components in-house strengthens the company's competitive position in the custom home-building market.

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Community

Woman Warns Against Cursed Online Amulets After Haunting

A TikTok user warned against buying amulets online after her colleague received a cursed bracelet from Hong Kong that allegedly harbored a vengeful child spirit, causing violent behavior and psychological distress until spiritual healers in

Woman Warns Against Cursed Online Amulets After Haunting
20 Jul Khaosod

On July 20, TikTok user @artittaya_ing posted a warning about purchasing amulets online, claiming that a colleague received a cursed bracelet along with an unwanted spiritual entity. She explained that her colleague ordered what was advertised as a white string bracelet from Hong Kong through a buy-one-get-one promotion. After receiving the item, the colleague suddenly felt compelled to undergo a spiritual cleansing ritual at a shrine rather than a temple, and returned home experiencing disturbing symptoms—anxiety, temperature fluctuations, and urges to harm herself and others. The colleague violently attacked her boyfriend without prior history of such behavior, prompting her to seek help from a spiritual healer. The healer examined the bracelet and warned that it carried a malevolent red-line curse, describing it as being inhabited by a vengeful child spirit from Hong Kong. The healer explained that the spirit became hostile after the cleansing ritual, refusing to leave peacefully and creating turmoil for the afflicted person. After performing multiple traditional rituals following Hmong spiritual practices, the haunting was eventually resolved at home. The user shared this story as a public warning about the dangers of purchasing items from unknown online sources without knowing their origins or spiritual associations.

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National

Thai Air Force Marks 15 Years of Gripen and Saab 340 Aircraft

Thailand's Royal Air Force celebrated 15 years of operating Gripen fighter jets and Saab 340 surveillance aircraft at Wing 7 in Surat Thani, with formation flying displays and an "Elephant Walk" of 14 jets showcasing the country's modernize

Thai Air Force Marks 15 Years of Gripen and Saab 340 Aircraft
20 Jul Khaosod

The Royal Thai Air Force celebrated 15 years of service for the Gripen C/D fighter jets and Saab 340 airborne warning and control aircraft at Wing 7 in Surat Thani Province on July 20, 2025. Supreme Commander General Ukritsadee Buntanon and Air Force Commander Air Chief Marshal Seksarr Khantha presided over the event, joined by former air force commanders including Air Chief Marshal Ittaporn Suphavong, who initiated the Gripen procurement program, along with General Prachin Chanthong and General Panthaphakdi Pattanagun.

Key activities included formation flying displays by Gripen C/D and Saab 340 aircraft, demonstrations of Gripen fighter capabilities, and an 'Elephant Walk' featuring 14 aircraft in total—nine Gripens and five Saab 340s—taxiing in unified formation on the runway. General Ukritsadee emphasized that the 2011 decision to acquire these aircraft has ensured Thailand's readiness for modern, multi-dimensional warfare. He noted that the air force continues developing modern warfare capabilities through sensor systems and cross-dimensional operational foundations, with plans to acquire additional fighter aircraft and enhanced systems that will strengthen Thailand's regional defense posture over the next decade.

Air Force Commander Air Chief Marshal Seksarr highlighted the crucial role Gripen aircraft played in supporting joint military operations during the Thailand-Cambodia border crisis, demonstrating the tangible benefits of the 15-year investment in advanced air capabilities and network-centric operations.

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National

BEM and EXAT Upgrade Easy Pass Lanes at Sri Saman Tollgate

BEM and EXAT will upgrade Easy Pass lanes and road surfaces at Sri Saman tollgate on the Udon Ratchathani Expressway from July 21–31, with lane closures scheduled in both directions during specified hours to improve service efficiency and s

BEM and EXAT Upgrade Easy Pass Lanes at Sri Saman Tollgate
20 Jul Khaosod

Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM) is working with the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) to upgrade Easy Pass lanes and road surfaces at the Sri Saman tollgate on the Udon Ratchathani Expressway in both directions, affecting lanes 1 and 2 from July 21–31, 2025. The upgrades aim to improve service efficiency and safety for expressway users, though machinery noise is expected during work hours. Work schedules are as follows: July 21–30, 6 a.m.–10 p.m., lane 2 outbound; July 23–30, 6 a.m.–10 p.m., lane 2 inbound; July 24–31, 10 p.m. onwards, lane 1 outbound; and July 26–31, 10 p.m. onwards, lane 1 inbound. BEM apologizes for any inconvenience and asks drivers to plan ahead and follow warning signs and staff instructions for safe travel. For more information, users can contact the Udon Ratchathani Expressway Control Center at 02-567-5679–80, EXAT Call Center at 1543, or follow BEM on Facebook and X.

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Police

Hotel Chef Arrested for Abusing Intern With Wooden Spoon

A hotel chef and colleague have been arrested for assaulting a 20-year-old culinary intern with a wooden spoon and other physical abuse in front of coworkers at a southern Thai hotel. The assault, captured on kitchen surveillance video, pro

Hotel Chef Arrested for Abusing Intern With Wooden Spoon
20 Jul Khaosod

Police have arrested and charged two female hotel staff members with jointly assaulting another person in a case that has drawn significant public attention. On July 20, 2026, the victim—a 20-year-old culinary intern identified as Ms. A—was struck in the face with a hand, hit on the arm with a wooden spoon, and slapped on the head multiple times in front of coworkers. She was also forced to eat uncooked rice after handling raw rice in the kitchen.

After collecting evidence and identifying the two Thai suspects, aged 41 and 36, officers from Pa Tong Police Station brought them in for questioning and formally charged them with assault. They have been detained and forwarded to court for prosecution.

The case gained widespread public attention after a kitchen surveillance video showing the assault was circulated on social media, prompting police to accelerate their investigation and quickly bring charges against those involved.

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National

DITTO's Blu Green Token Surges 20% in Trading Debut

DITTO's Blu Green Token, Thailand's first environmental token backed by mangrove carbon credits, surged 20% in its trading debut on Bitkub exchange, raising funds to restore over 17,500 rai of coastal forest while supporting local fisheries

DITTO's Blu Green Token Surges 20% in Trading Debut
20 Jul Khaosod

On July 20, 2025, Siam TC Technology (SCTC), a subsidiary of DITTO (Thailand) Public Company Limited, began trading its digital investment token "Blu Green Token" on Bitkub exchange. The token opened at 1.30 baht per coin, up 0.10 baht from the offer price of 1.20 baht, and climbed further to 1.44 baht, gaining 20%.

DITTO Chief Executive Thakorn Ratanakamolporn announced that the Blu Green Token is Thailand's first environmental token, backed by carbon credits generated from mangrove forest restoration projects managed by SCTC. The company plans to raise 480 million baht from 400 million tokens to fund planting, replanting, and maintenance of mangroves across 17,531.04 rai of coastal forest registered under Thailand's T-VER carbon credit standards.

To verify carbon credit accumulation, DITTO will deploy advanced technology including drone surveys, artificial intelligence, satellite monitoring, and a Tree Detection App (TDA) to count individual trees and analyze survival rates. The company partnered with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources to develop expertise in "blue carbon"—carbon sequestered by mangroves, which is nearly 10 times more effective than terrestrial forests.

Beyond carbon credits, the mangrove restoration delivers multiple benefits: it nurseries juvenile seafood species like shrimp, clams, crabs, and fish, supporting traditional fishers; protects shorelines from erosion and storms; maintains biodiversity; and creates local employment in forest management and maintenance. Thakorn emphasized that as climate change intensifies disasters, DITTO's green technology business addresses Thailand's environmental challenges while positioning the company in a new growth sector.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Anti-Corruption Officials Probe 619 Million Baht Road Project

Anti-corruption officials launched an investigation into a 619 million baht Highway 3093 expansion project in Samut Songkhram after complaints that the contractor used substandard sand, though preliminary checks found no irregularities.

Anti-Corruption Officials Probe 619 Million Baht Road Project
20 Jul Khaosod

On July 20, 2025, Kanjana Khamsuwon, director of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) office in Samut Songkhram, and Wiranya Thongkhiao, director of the State Audit Office (SAO) in Samut Songkhram, ordered officials to inspect and monitor budget spending for the Highway 3093 expansion project in Amphoe Amphawa. The inspection was prompted by public complaints that the contractor used sand that did not conform to construction specifications.

Road officials explained that the project expands the highway from two to four lanes over 10.3 kilometers at a cost of 619 million baht. The contract began August 19, 2024, and is scheduled to conclude October 7, 2025, with a construction timeline of 780 days. The project aims to improve transportation links between Ratchaburi and Samut Songkhram provinces, support agricultural transport, and boost tourism.

Kanjana stated that preliminary inspections found no irregularities and confirmed that sand was indeed being used for the fill layers. However, additional documentation from the Department of Highways must be reviewed, including sand sourcing, procurement documents, and specifications. The NACC will request design plans, project details, and cost estimates from the Department of Highways for further verification. If any violations are found, legal action will be taken immediately; if approved, results will be published on the NACC website to reassure the public.

Orouma Suwanarak, director of the State Audit Office group in Samut Songkhram, reported that document reviews, material specifications, and fieldwork all appear to follow proper procedures. Most complaints related to the contractor's work methods, and no evidence of damage or fraud has been found so far. The NACC and SAO will continue monitoring the project and respond promptly to any additional complaints or information.

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Police

Man Arrested for Secretly Filming Under Women's Skirts on Bangkok MRT

A 57-year-old man was arrested at Bangkok's Bang Khae MRT station after being caught filming under a woman's skirt; police found videos of approximately 30 women on his phone.

Man Arrested for Secretly Filming Under Women's Skirts on Bangkok MRT
20 Jul Khaosod

At 8:40 a.m. on July 20, 2025, officers from Phetchkasem and Lak Song police stations arrested Jaruun, also known as Ja, age 57, at the up escalator of Bang Khae MRT station in Bangkok. The arrest came after a woman reported that a man had used his phone to film under her skirt while she was ascending the stairs. A fellow commuter had alerted her to the suspicious behavior and pointed out the offender.

When the victim confronted the man and asked to see his phone, he refused and security was called. Police arrived and apprehended the suspect. A search of his phone revealed multiple hidden-camera videos, including footage of the victim and approximately 29 other women. Under questioning, the suspect confessed to habitually filming women under their skirts in public places. He admitted that after recording, he would use the videos for sexual gratification before deleting them. Police charged him with sexual harassment and are pursuing further prosecution.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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