Suspect's Hut Yields Victim's Head, Gruesome Evidence in Udon Murder

Police in Udon Thani arrested a 30-year-old man after finding a murder victim's severed head and organs hidden in a paint can at his hut, with evidence suggesting cannibalistic intent.

18 Jul Khaosod

Police updated the investigation on July 18 into a shocking murder case at a hut in Ban Dung district, Udon Thani province. The victim, 35-year-old Somsak ("Tong"), was brutally murdered with seven stab wounds to the body, and his head and genitals were severed and removed from the scene.

Officers led by deputy provincial police commander Natthapon Phayomnai and investigators conducted a detailed search of the crime scene and took into custody a 30-year-old suspect, known as Thung, who lived in a hut just 50 meters away. A search of Thung's hut uncovered significant evidence including bloodstains on bedding and a knife sheath matching the blade found near the victim's body. Thung initially denied involvement but tested positive for drugs and was detained on narcotics charges pending further investigation.

At 1:30 p.m., rescuers made a horrifying discovery: the victim's severed head and genitals were found hidden in a paint can at Thung's hut. The head had been split in two, burned, and preserved with dog bones. In an even more disturbing finding, officers discovered what appeared to be brain tissue pickled in a glass jar, suggesting the suspect may have intended to consume it. The case has shocked local residents and authorities continue to build evidence against the suspect.

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Police

Social Security Probes Hospital Care After Patient Dies Without EKG Test

Social Security is investigating a private hospital in Ratchaburi after a patient with chest pain died following a denied EKG test, prompting the hospital to suspend the treating physician and launch its own review.

18 Jul Khaosod

The Social Security Office (SSO) is investigating medical care standards in the case of a patient with chest pain who was refused an EKG test and subsequently died. The patient's widow posted on social media demanding justice for her husband, who died after treatment at a private hospital in Ratchaburi province that operates under the Social Security system. She reported her husband experienced radiating chest pain from his fingertips to his left chest and profuse sweating for about a week before going to the hospital.

According to the widow, upon arrival at San Camillo Ban Pong Hospital, a nurse took his history and referred him to the internal medicine department. However, that department asked him to return for blood and cholesterol tests first, then he was redirected to an orthopedics specialist due to his previous tendon injury history. Although the patient insisted his current symptoms were different and suspected a heart condition—given his high cholesterol risk factor—the orthopedist recommended he see an internist. When he met with a general practitioner, no heart auscultation was performed and he was denied the requested EKG test.

San Camillo Ban Pong Hospital established an investigation committee and suspended the treating physician. On July 18, the hospital issued a statement expressing condolences and confirming it has appointed a fact-finding committee with relevant experts to review all medical processes with transparency and fairness. The hospital suspended the treating doctor pending completion of the investigation.

Niyada Senimanomay, Deputy Secretary-General of the Social Security Office and SSO spokesperson, stated that the Medical Service System Administration is reviewing the hospital's service standards. She emphasized that diagnosis and treatment for coronary artery disease is already a covered benefit, and emergency cases can receive treatment without co-payment for the first 72 hours under all three health fund schemes: Social Security Fund, Universal Health Coverage (Gold Card), and civil servant medical benefits. The SSO expressed sympathy to the deceased's family and affirmed it will investigate whether the treatment met professional standards and contractual requirements.

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National

Thailand Establishes New Sports Ministry to Boost Regional Hub Status

Thailand's cabinet approved the creation of a new Sports Ministry on July 14, aimed at unifying sports policy and establishing the country as a regional sports hub through improved athlete development and industry growth.

18 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Secretary-General Nathriya Thaveevongse revealed that the cabinet meeting on July 14, 2026, approved in principle the creation of a Sports Ministry, marking a significant step in reforming Thailand's public sports administration. The new ministry will enable unified, agile policy-making and sports development responsive to global changes and competition.

Thaveevongse explained that the Sports Ministry will streamline management across the entire sports ecosystem, from grassroots athlete development to elite and professional sports, while promoting sports science, innovation, and the sports industry as a driver of economic value and improved quality of life. A dedicated sports agency will accelerate planning, budget allocation, and inter-sector collaboration, allowing the country to develop a coherent long-term sports strategy, host international competitions, and establish Thailand as a regional sports hub.

The Tourism and Sports Ministry is coordinating with relevant agencies to plan the transfer of functions, structure, staffing, budget, and assets according to good governance principles, ensuring continuity and no disruption to public services. Subsequent steps include drafting legislation and subordinate regulations while soliciting public input before parliamentary consideration, ensuring the ministry's establishment is thorough, transparent, and maximally beneficial to the country and its people.

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National

Commerce Ministry Rushes to Clear 300,000 Tons of Southern Durian

Thailand's Commerce Ministry is launching a push to clear 489,000 tons of unsold southern durian after a 30% harvest increase flooded markets and triggered price drops due to weak Chinese demand and quality issues.

18 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachee Paibul has instructed the Internal Trade Department to monitor the southern durian situation closely. Southern durian output in 2025 totaled 752,515 tons, representing a 30 percent increase. To date, 35 percent of the harvest has been sold, leaving 489,199 tons in storage. Early-season price declines were triggered by weak Chinese market demand stemming from quality problems—immature fruit arriving in China prompted buyers to delay orders—alongside competition from durian grown in other Thai regions such as Udon Thani, Surin, and Nakhon Ratchasima.

As prices fell, the Internal Trade Department implemented market-support purchases and launched consumer-promotion campaigns. Grade AB durian currently ranges from 85 to 105 baht per kilogram; Grade C from 60 to 80 baht; and Grade D from 40 to 55 baht.

Investigations into viral media reports of durian priced at 5 baht each found these to be small, cracked local-variety fruits—not premium Monthong durian—typically used for durian jam and stuffed pastries. In Udon Thani, quality-grade durian has been affected by heavy rains causing mold and insect damage; the Commerce Ministry has absorbed affected stock for processing.

The Internal Trade Department plans to manage 300,000 tons of southern fruit through advance purchase contracts (3,700 tons), consumer campaigns (9,000 tons), regional distribution networks (281,000 tons), retail outlets, postal-service shipping support, and value-added processing. Medium-term efforts include targeted tourism campaigns and partnerships with food businesses and brands to feature durian in new menu items, with promotional events scheduled in Chumphon, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces.

Durian exports for 2025 (January 1–July 5) totaled 908,047 tons across 55,831 shipments, generating export revenue exceeding 104.2 billion baht.

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National

Thailand Launches Poverty-Fighting Sandbox in Roi Et

Thailand launched a poverty-fighting initiative in Roi Et using science and innovation to target assistance at the household level, with plans to expand nationwide if successful.

18 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Yasothon Wongswat and Social Development Minister Nikom Somklang launched the "Five-Dimensional Poverty Alleviation and Social Status Elevation Plan" in sandbox format in Roi Et province on July 18, using science, research, and innovation as precision tools to combat poverty down to the household level. If successful, the program will expand nationwide, with senior officials from both ministries, local administrators, and Roi Et parliamentarians participating.

Yasothon explained that the sandbox's core is real-world implementation using a comprehensive Provincial Poverty Alleviation Platform (PPAP) centered on local universities and linked with provincial, local, civil society, and state agencies at all levels. The PPPConnext system has already identified and verified 1,243,449 poor individuals from 303,444 households across 20 provinces, analyzing problems across five capital dimensions: human, physical, financial, natural, and social capital.

To date, the research program has developed over 458 poverty-alleviation models generating income for 179,370 poor people, increasing total earnings by 979 million baht. Some 3,638 scalable technologies cover food processing, fishing, agriculture, and material value-added sectors, deployed through a network of over 70 university development centers nationwide. In Roi Et specifically, Roi Et Rajabhat University identified 53,795 poor households and implemented a "precision agriculture" vegetable-farming model in Kaset Wisai and Muang Roi Et districts using IoT sensors and automated drip irrigation, benefiting 514 households with average monthly income increases of 3,414 baht and reducing debt for 44.5 percent of farmers.

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National

Thailand Launches 25 Million Baht Plan to Revive Shrimp Industry

Thailand is launching a 25-million-baht program to strengthen its shrimp industry, addressing export challenges including Malaysia's temporary import suspension while boosting farmer support and domestic consumption.

18 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Agriculture Minister Watcharapol Khaokhram chaired the first 2025 meeting of the marine shrimp industry management committee at the Department of Fisheries to establish guidelines for strengthening Thailand's shrimp sector throughout the value chain. The meeting brought together government officials, private sector representatives, and shrimp farmers from across the country to develop sustainable, competitive strategies.

The committee reviewed progress on resolving Malaysia's temporary shrimp import suspension, with the Department of Fisheries in ongoing talks with Malaysian counterparts. Following discussions between the agriculture ministers of both nations, they agreed to expedite evaluation of sanitary and phytosanitary measures to normalize shrimp trade. The department was tasked with addressing remaining operational obstacles and implementing a national action plan for marine shrimp development through 2570 (2027).

The initiative emphasizes farmer knowledge transfer, shrimp breed development, production efficiency improvements, and adoption of appropriate farming technology. The government also approved a 25-million-baht program from the farmer assistance fund to link markets, distribute surplus production, and stimulate domestic consumption, offsetting export slowdown and Malaysia's import restrictions. Deputy Minister Watcharapol stressed that sustainable industry growth requires coordinated support from government, private business, and farmers, combining market development with enhanced production capacity and competitiveness.

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National

Thailand Deploys AI to Modernize Sugar Industry

Thailand's government agencies are deploying artificial intelligence across the sugar industry to streamline production from crop planning to market forecasting, while also modernizing broader industrial standards and consumer protection sy

18 Jul Khaosod

The Sugar and Sugar Cane Board (SSCB) and the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) are jointly implementing Thailand's Ministry of Industry's "ONE MIND unified industry" policy by piloting an artificial intelligence platform and data-driven management system designed to connect government databases, eliminate operational fragmentation, and strengthen Thailand's industrial competitiveness. SSCB Secretary-General Baimai Suvannatrai announced the collaboration will streamline the entire sugar production chain—from weather forecasting and crop planning to detecting hot spots to reduce burning, analyzing production processes, and predicting domestic and global sugar consumption trends.

The effort supports Thailand's 2023-2027 digital government roadmap, emphasizing user-centric digital services and staff development to build a sustainable digital ecosystem. Deputy TISI Secretary-General Pattharaphol Limpakdi outlined three dimensions guiding the organization toward becoming an intelligent agency: digital process reform, seamless data integration, and AI innovation for consumer safety. The roadmap includes centralizing registration databases, standards, e-licensing, e-surveillance, and certification systems to achieve three goals—speed, transparency, and safety—with plans to launch an AI Expert System in 2027 for factory risk assessment and a SMART TISI market surveillance system before achieving full data-driven decision-making by 2029.

The project will develop a Risk Assessment Dashboard, an online monitoring system for Thai standards, and AI social listening tools to protect consumers. Additional deliverables include a real-time AI Dashboard, 24/7 AI chatbots for public services, and smart alert systems for emerging risks. Over 170 staff have been trained in data and AI, with knowledge shared with nearly 1,500 farmers, entrepreneurs, and citizens, marking a significant step toward data-driven governance and industry practices in Thailand.

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Police

Murder Suspect Detained After Gruesome Death in Udon Thani

A 30-year-old man was arrested in Udon Thani after a 35-year-old victim was found stabbed seven times, with police discovering blood-stained evidence near the suspect's home located 50 meters from the crime scene.

18 Jul Khaosod

Police arrested a 30-year-old suspect named Thung living just 50 meters from the crime scene on July 18 following a thorough investigation by Region 4 police and provincial officers. Investigators found significant evidence including blood stains on blankets and a knife sheath similar to the weapon left at the body of Somsakdi, or "Tong," age 35, who had been stabbed seven times. Although Thung initially denied any involvement, a urine test revealed drug residues, and he was detained on drug possession charges pending further investigation.

Local authorities conducted an underwater search in the pond behind Thung's hut for the victim's severed head and missing genitals but recovered only animal bones. Thung is reportedly a long-time psychiatric patient with a known preference for eating dog meat and a reclusive lifestyle. The victim had a history of petty theft and was frequently recorded on surveillance cameras stealing from neighbors in the area.

Local village officials expressed shock at the incident, noting that both the victim and suspect were respected community members. While police have gathered circumstantial evidence linking Thung to the crime, residents await the formal investigation results to identify the true perpetrator, as fear and anxiety grip the community.

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National

Thai PM Opens Chengdu Investment Forum, Courts Sichuan Business

Thailand's PM opened an investment forum in Chengdu and launched the BOI's office there, positioning Thailand as a key hub for Chinese businesses seeking ASEAN and Asian market access. The government is promoting investment through expedite

18 Jul Khaosod

Prime Minister Anusit Chanyawimol and Deputy Interior Minister presided over the opening of the Thailand–China (Sichuan) Investment and Economic Forum 2026 on July 18 at Tianfu International Convention Center in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. The event also marked the official launch of the BOI Chengdu Office, attended by Sichuan provincial officials, senior executives from both countries, investors, and Thai-Chinese private sector representatives.

The PM expressed gratitude to the Chinese government, Sichuan provincial authorities, and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (Sichuan branch) for supporting the forum and BOI office opening. He noted that Sichuan, with 80 million people and China's sixth-largest economy, is a major economic and industrial hub. Thailand, he said, offers competitive advantages including its position as ASEAN's geographical center, quality infrastructure, strong supply chains, skilled workforce, and clean energy resources.

The government is pursuing a three-dimensional economic development strategy: accelerating business approvals through the Thailand FastPass program (which has already facilitated over 750 billion baht in investment), upgrading Thai entrepreneurs and personnel through BOI competitiveness funds and skill-bridge programs, and strengthening the domestic economy through short-term stimulus measures and structural reforms in energy and digital sectors. These efforts have earned recognition from Moody's and S&P Global Ratings, which upgraded Thailand's creditworthiness outlook, while Thailand's IMD competitiveness ranking continues to rise.

The PM highlighted the significant trade potential between Sichuan and Thailand through the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle initiative, positioning Thailand as a central hub linking China's western regions with South Asia, Central Asia, and ASEAN.

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National

Bitkub CEO Top Spends Millions on Swiss-Like Home Climate

Bitkub CEO Topp Jirayut spent millions on health technology and Swiss-quality air systems in his Bangkok penthouse, including a 2.5 million baht lymphatic stimulation device and advanced air conditioning, prioritizing wellness over traditio

18 Jul Khaosod

Bitkub CEO Topp Jirayut, a prominent Thai entrepreneur who balances full commitment to work with sustainable health management, recently appeared on the One Playground channel's program Kehasathan Baan Plai (Episode 108) to showcase his luxury penthouse on the 42nd floor in downtown Bangkok. Located at the top floor to maximize sunlight, the residence includes a private ice bath.

Topp revealed he owns no house or car conventionally, holding only Bitcoin because he doesn't view such assets as wealth but rather liabilities. However, he is willing to invest heavily in one thing: health. He currently rents the penthouse for 500,000 baht per month, which includes all services, breakfast, and daily housekeeping.

He showed his private Longevity room, in which he invested over 500,000 baht, equipped with Red Light Therapy machines costing hundreds of thousands of baht for body recovery and skin therapy, and an icoone® device costing over 2.5 million baht to stimulate lymphatic circulation and eliminate waste.

Topp spent millions on air conditioning systems to replicate Switzerland's air quality, arguing that Thailand's outdoor air quality differs drastically from his indoor environment. "Why invest in a luxury car when you can breathe Swiss-quality air every day?" he said, noting that every home should have such systems.

Beyond this, Topp employs a personal trainer and private chef who prepare healthy meals. His health commitment extends to taking 30 dietary supplements daily, costing 120,000 baht annually, and investing over 65,000 baht in a water filtration system to avoid microplastic concerns.

He also displayed his wardrobe of luxury suits, each set costing 300,000 baht with four sets totaling over 1.2 million baht, which he changes every six months. The entrepreneur exemplifies dedication to both work and health management.

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National

PM Anutin Leads Thai Delegation to Chengdu Investment Forum

Prime Minister Anutin led a Thai delegation to Chengdu to launch an investment forum and negotiate with six major Chinese corporations in technology, automotive, and tourism sectors. The visit aims to strengthen economic ties and attract Ch

18 Jul Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Anutin Chaiyawongse led an economic mission to Chengdu to open a Thai-China investment forum and conduct one-on-one negotiations with six major corporations in technology, automotive, and tourism sectors to attract investment into Thailand.

Reporting from the People's Republic of China, Prime Minister Anutin Chaiyawongse and the Minister of Interior, accompanied by a high-level Thai government delegation, are on an official visit to China from July 16-20, 2025. On July 18, the Prime Minister led the delegation from Shanghai to Chengdu, Sichuan Province, to advance full-scale economic, technology, and tourism cooperation. The delegation participated in the "Prime Minister-Thai Private Sector Luncheon" to exchange perspectives with Thailand's leading business representatives and hear recommendations for penetrating the Chinese market.

A total of 48 Thai companies with 153 representatives attended the business negotiations in Chengdu, combining both those already conducting joint ventures with Chinese investors and those seeking new business partnerships. One hundred ten business leaders participated in the luncheon with the Prime Minister.

Eleven prominent business executives dined at the PM's table, including Pimjai Lee Isisaranukul, President of the Federation of Thai Industries; Norungsak Putthaprommonkol, President of the Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce; Viboon Suphakropongkul, Vice President of the Thai Chamber of Commerce; Surachai Jiaranon, Senior Vice President of Charoen Pokphand Group; Saravuth Yuvittaya, CEO of TCP Business Group; Supralaks Ampuch, Chairman of The Mall Group; Vikrom Kromditsathit, CEO of AMATA; Vichai Kulsomsap, CEO and Chairman of Sahapattana Group; Yothin Damnanchaivanit, President of Industrial Park 304; Chaya Chantavasu, Senior Vice President of PTT; and Manoo Chotetewanya, Chairman of Sahafarm.

The Prime Minister will use this opportunity to gather feedback and recommendations from Thailand's private sector to discuss with the Chinese government. A meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang is scheduled for July 20. The Board of Investment (BOI) office in Chengdu was officially opened during the visit to serve as a link connecting Chinese investors to Thailand, signaling the Thai government's commitment to deepening trade and investment relations with China at the regional level.

Sichuan Province is strategically important as China's sixth-largest economy with a population of over 80 million, with economic potential comparable to Thailand. Thailand and China have emphasized connectivity through the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and the Chengdu-Chongqing economic corridor, which will position the region as a crucial connection point between western China, South Asia, and ASEAN, with Thailand serving as the region's primary gateway.

The Prime Minister revealed that last year, the value of investment promotion applications from Chinese entrepreneurs reached a record 380,000 million yuan, equivalent to an economic stimulus of over 1 trillion baht, a 67% increase from the previous year. Trade between Thailand and Sichuan in 2025 expanded by 112%, reflecting investor confidence in Thailand's infrastructure, clean energy, and strong supply chains.

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