Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Weather

Thailand Braces for Heavy Rain, 36 Provinces On Alert

Thailand's Meteorological Department warned 36 provinces of heavy rain and flash flooding over the next 24 hours as a monsoon trough and low-pressure system bring widespread thunderstorms and accumulated rainfall, particularly to northern a

Thailand Braces for Heavy Rain, 36 Provinces On Alert
2 Aug Khaosod

The Thai Meteorological Department issued a weather forecast for the next 24 hours, warning of persistent heavy rainfall in parts of Thailand caused by a monsoon trough passing over the northern region and northern Laos, combined with a low-pressure system near northern Vietnam's coast and a moderate southwest monsoon over the Andaman and Thai waters. Heavy downpours and accumulated rainfall may trigger sudden flooding and flash floods, especially in foothill areas adjacent to streams and low-lying zones. Waves in the upper Andaman Sea will reach 1–2 meters, while the lower Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand will see approximately 1-meter waves, with thunderstorm areas experiencing waves exceeding 2 meters. Mariners are advised to navigate carefully and avoid thunderstorm-prone regions. Regional forecasts: Northern region (Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Tak, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok) will have thunderstorms over 70% of the area with heavy rain in some places, temperatures 23–28°C low and 30–36°C high, southwest winds 10–20 km/h. Northeastern region (Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan) will see thunderstorms over 60% of the area with heavy rain, temperatures 23–24°C low and 30–35°C high. Central region (Nakhon Sawan, Lopburi, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi) will experience thunderstorms over 60% of the area with heavy rain, temperatures 24–25°C low and 34–35°C high. Eastern region (Nakhon Nayok, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chanthaburi, Trat) will have thunderstorms over 60% of the area with heavy rain, temperatures 24–26°C low and 31–34°C high, with 1-meter waves and higher waves in thunderstorm zones. Southern East Coast (Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Yala, Narathiwat) will see thunderstorms over 40% of the area, temperatures 23–26°C low and 33–36°C high. Southern West Coast (Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket) will have thunderstorms over 60% of the area with heavy rain in some places, temperatures 23–24°C low and 32–35°C high, with 1–2-meter waves. Bangkok and vicinity will experience thunderstorms over 60% of the area, temperatures 25–27°C low and 33–35°C high.

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Police

Fortune Teller Dupes Businesswoman Out of 30 Million Baht

A fortune teller defrauded a 32-year-old businesswoman of over 30 million baht in Ko Lanta by using threats of family calamities to pressure her into buying ritual supplies over four years. Police are investigating after another victim repo

Fortune Teller Dupes Businesswoman Out of 30 Million Baht
2 Aug Khaosod

On August 2, 2025, at the Sai Yai Must Survive center on Wat Koh Road in Sai Yai district, a 32-year-old businesswoman filed a complaint with Ekaphop Luang Prasert, founder of the Sai Yai Must Survive Facebook page, against a famous fortune teller who had defrauded her of over 30 million baht across four years. Previously, a Thai-Hong Kong businesswoman had also come forward alleging that the same fortune teller had scammed her out of 40 million baht.

The victim, identified as Ms. A (pseudonym), explained that she operates a food sales business. Four to five years ago, she found the fortune teller's Facebook page and requested a fortune reading about her business. Initially, the teller made statements that matched reality and seemed credible, earning her trust. Over time, the fortune teller pressured her to purchase ritual supplies and perform ceremonies costing between 30,000 and 700,000 baht each. When she hesitated, the teller threatened that she and her family would face calamities and business failure, forcing her to transfer money repeatedly over 4-5 years.

When the Thai-Hong Kong businesswoman's case became public last month, the victim recognized the same scheme. The fortune teller subsequently contacted her claiming the news was false, but refused to issue a public clarification, convincing the victim she had been completely defrauded. She decided to seek help from Sai Yai Must Survive, urging other victims to stop sending money and file police reports.

Ekaphop Luang Prasert noted that fake fortune tellers and self-proclaimed experts proliferate due to current economic and social stress, with victims losing substantial sums when the fraudsters happen to guess correctly. A previous case involving the Thai-Hong Kong businesswoman is being investigated at Pravet Police Station. Luang Prasert will coordinate with Pol. Col. Chatchapan Klaengklin, Deputy Commander of the Technology Crime Suppression Division, to help victims file formal complaints and trace financial transactions to recover assets.

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National

Essential Goods, Transport Remain VAT-Exempt Through September 2027

The Thai government extended VAT exemptions on essential goods including rice, eggs, meat, seafood, and public transport through September 2027 to ease the financial burden on citizens.

Essential Goods, Transport Remain VAT-Exempt Through September 2027
2 Aug Khaosod

To ease the financial burden on citizens, essential goods and services including rice, eggs, meat, seafood, vegetables, fruit, and motor vehicle transport will continue to be exempt from the 7% value-added tax (VAT). The Ministry of Finance, through the Revenue Department, proposed to the Cabinet to extend the reduced VAT rate through September 30, 2027, which the Cabinet approved on July 27, 2024. The Revenue Department confirmed that while general goods and services will continue to be taxed at 7%, essential items such as food ingredients (rice, meat, produce, fresh seafood, fresh eggs) and vehicle transport remain VAT-exempt to relieve the public's financial burden under current economic conditions. Small business operators earning no more than 1.8 million baht annually are likewise exempt from VAT. For further inquiries, contact any Revenue Department office nationwide or the RD Intelligence Center at telephone 1161.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Cabinet Approves Faster Deportation of Foreigners

Thailand's Cabinet has approved a new regulation allowing authorities to deport foreigners whose behavior violates Thai moral and social standards, according to Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt.

Cabinet Approves Faster Deportation of Foreigners
2 Aug The Phuket News

BANGKOK: A Cabinet-backed draft regulation will allow authorities to remove foreigners whose conduct is deemed incompatible with Thai morals and social norms, the Deputy Prime Minister for Legal Affairs Pakorn Nilprapunt said yesterday (Aug 2).

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Disputes UN Expert's Account of Cambodia Conflict

Thailand disputes a UN expert's account of the Cambodia conflict, denying it initiated fighting and claiming Cambodia made unprovoked attacks on Thai civilians and migrant workers.

Thailand Disputes UN Expert's Account of Cambodia Conflict
2 Aug Khaosod

Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has responded to a recent statement by the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Cambodia, saying it wished to clarify several points related to the Thailand-Cambodia conflict.

In a statement released after Tom Andrews concluded his visit to Cambodia, the ministry said Thailand did not initiate the conflict and claimed the situation resulted from "indiscriminate attacks" by Cambodia targeting civilian areas in Thailand.

Andrews, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia, highlighted the humanitarian impact of the conflict in his end-of-mission statement on 31 July, including displacement, the return of Cambodian migrant workers from Thailand and economic disruption caused by border closures.

Regarding the UN expert's reference to around 650,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Cambodia, Thailand said the figure included some Cambodians living in areas where Thailand had opened temporary shelters as part of humanitarian assistance in the late 1970s. The ministry said those individuals remained in the areas despite improvements in their situation and repeated requests from Thailand for their return to Cambodia. Thailand argued that they should not be classified as internally displaced persons.

"Thailand is of the view that the right of return should not be exploited for political purposes or propaganda," the statement said, while stressing that Cambodia has a responsibility to provide protection and assistance to citizens affected by internal displacement.

On the return of Cambodian migrant workers, the ministry disputed Andrews' figure of 900,000 people, saying the number included both legally employed workers and those who had entered or worked in Thailand illegally. Thailand said Cambodian workers returned voluntarily following calls from the Cambodian government and rejected any suggestion that it had a policy of expelling migrant workers.

"The Thai Government has always stated its commitment to ensuring the safety of Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand and has never had a policy to expel these migrant workers from the country," the statement said.

The ministry also urged UN human rights mechanisms to uphold independence, impartiality and objectivity, saying assessments should take into account information from credible and verifiable sources as well as perspectives from all sides. Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to human rights and international humanitarian law, saying it has consistently cooperated with UN human rights mechanisms and provided relevant information on the situation.

The statement said Thailand remains ready to rebuild relations with Cambodia but stressed that both sides must create conditions for dialogue by reducing tensions, avoiding provocative actions and implementing the Joint Statement issued on 27 December 2025. Thailand said border-related issues should continue to be addressed through peaceful means and existing bilateral mechanisms.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand to Renegotiate Long-Term Power Contracts

Thailand will renegotiate long-term power contracts with private producers to align rates with current costs and international standards, with the Energy Policy Committee approving talks to begin immediately without cabinet review.

Thailand to Renegotiate Long-Term Power Contracts
2 Aug Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilpraphan announced progress on renegotiating long-term electricity purchase agreements—commonly called perpetual contracts—with private power producers, a major issue directly impacting households and businesses. The National Energy Policy Committee approved the renegotiations on July 17, 2026, allowing the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand to begin talks with private producers immediately without further cabinet approval.

Nilpraphan stated that no contract should remain fixed for the entire 50-year term without periodic review. International standards call for reviews every 10 years to account for inflation, cost changes, and shifting market conditions. Currently, the base purchasing rate stands at around 2.16 baht per unit, but production costs for some electricity types have declined, requiring a review of whether current prices still reflect true costs and are fair to consumers.

The committee is also examining availability payments, another cost component affecting electricity prices. Nilpraphan emphasized that renegotiating contracts is not contract cancellation and should not undermine investor confidence, but rather align Thailand with international standards. He noted that while the country may have offered high incentives in the past to attract new technology, market conditions and costs have since changed, warranting a review of terms.

Addressing electricity costs holistically, Nilpraphan said Thailand's Power Development Plan must be based on accurate scientific data rather than overestimating future energy needs. The country must clarify available power sources—natural gas, wind, solar, and others—and consider emerging technologies like small modular reactors and ASEAN Smart Grid, which would allow regional energy trading.

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Police

Suspect's Girlfriend Claims She Was Tricked Into Murder Case

The girlfriend of murder suspect "Ball" claims he was deceived into participating in a five-victim killing case after being told he was collecting a debt, and that he was manipulated by fellow suspect "Pong" who threatened his family's safe

Suspect's Girlfriend Claims She Was Tricked Into Murder Case
2 Aug Khaosod

The girlfriend of Atthapang, nicknamed "Ball," one of the suspects in a five-victim murder and corpse-concealment case, revealed on August 2, 2569 that her boyfriend did not intentionally participate in the crimes but was tricked by a man named Thana, nicknamed "Pong," into going to collect a debt before discovering it was a murder. She claims that after the incident, he experienced anxiety, insomnia, and fear for their family's safety.

She stated that "Ball" had known "Pong" for over seven to eight years from a period when they were involved in drug-related work. After "Pong" was released from prison, he contacted "Ball" to demand repayment of approximately 20,000 baht and sent threats through others, causing "Ball" to fear retaliation since "Pong" knew their family's address.

On the day of the incident, she claimed "Pong" invited "Ball" to collect a debt or loan repayment, leading him to agree without advance knowledge of any murders. When "Ball" returned home, he cried and embraced her in fear, unable to sleep and appearing traumatized by what he witnessed, but refusing to disclose full details fearing his family might become targets if they knew too much.

According to her account, "Ball" only mentioned that upon arriving at the scene, he found a grave already dug, immediately sensing something was wrong as this was not a debt collection as he had been told. She confirmed that "Ball" never claimed to have shot the victims nor revealed who wielded the murder weapon.

She further alleged that after the incident, "Pong" monitored "Ball's" movements to see whether he would report to police, and threatened harm to those involved and their families if information about the case was disclosed.

She revealed that after "Ball" turned himself in, he called her only once, instructing her to secure the house, protect the family's safety, and apologizing to everyone, but providing no details about who committed the murders.

She expressed concern for "Ball's" safety while in custody and requested authorities separate his detention from other suspects, fearing he might face harm.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Som Saralrak Wins Philippines Badminton Singles Title

Thai shuttler Saralrak Wititsan claimed the Philippine International Challenge women's singles title with a 2-1 victory over compatriot Yataweemin Ketklia, securing her first major championship of 2026.

Som Saralrak Wins Philippines Badminton Singles Title
2 Aug Khaosod

Saralrak Wititsan, younger sister of world No. 2 badminton player Wiv Kulvuthi, has won the women's singles championship at the Philippine International Challenge 2026 in the Philippines. The final pitted two Thai badminton players from Ban Thong Yord club against each other: Saralrak and Yataweemin Ketklia. Saralrak emerged victorious with a 2-1 game win to claim the international title, marking her first major championship win this year.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Police

Phuket Woman Charged With Beheading Mother-In-Law

A 36-year-old Phuket woman was arrested after allegedly beheading her 74-year-old mother-in-law with a kitchen knife during an argument at their Chalong home on August 1. The accused, who has been receiving psychiatric treatment since 2016,

2 Aug The Thaiger Crime

Phuket woman charged after beheading mother-in-lawLegacyA woman was arrested after allegedly beheading her mother-in-law with a kitchen knife following an argument at their home in Phuket yesterday, August 1. Police were called to the property in Chalong, Mueang district, at around 9.25am after neighbours reported the killing. The victim, 74 year old Chantra, was found dead inside the house. The accused, identified as 36 year old Sri, was found in the bathroom after neighbours restrained her before police arrived. Police believe the two women argued while alone in the house before Sri allegedly grabbed a kitchen knife and beheaded her mother-in-law. Photo via MGR Online Sri was arrested at the scene and taken to Chalong Police Station for further questioning before being charged with murder. Chantra’s body was sent to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Police said the accused’s husband, who is also the victim’s son, had left for work shortly before the incident, leaving the two women alone in the house. He told investigators the couple had lived together for more than a decade and that Sri had cared for her mother-in-law by helping with her daily needs. He also said she had been receiving treatment for a psychiatric condition since 2016. Photo via MGR Online The first witness at the scene, 34 year old Thapanee, said she was riding past the house when she noticed the elderly woman lying near the doorway. Thinking the victim had collapsed, she went to alert relatives before returning and noticing blood, prompting neighbours to contact the police. Officers said they are continuing to investigate the motive and have not yet determined what triggered the attack. Elsewhere, a 73 year old woman was found murdered at her home in Ayutthaya. A 44 year old suspect later confessed, telling police he entered the house at night before assaulting and suffocating the victim with a pillow. The story Phuket woman charged after beheading mother-in-law as seen on Thaiger News.

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National

Government Savings Bonds Sell Out in 21 Seconds

OmPlus government savings bonds sold out in just 21 seconds on August 2, with a second subscription period opening August 3-5 as the government pushes broader financial access for ordinary citizens and small businesses.

Government Savings Bonds Sell Out in 21 Seconds
2 Aug Khaosod

Government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek revealed on August 2 that the "OmPlus" government savings bonds sold out entirely within 21 seconds, demonstrating strong public interest in secure, accessible savings options—especially amid global economic uncertainty. The rapid sell-out reflects not just the appeal of the bond itself but public willingness to participate in government-backed financial tools when they are designed for broad accessibility.

Prime Minister Anutthin Charnvirakul has mandated that all government agencies expand economic opportunities for ordinary citizens and small businesses, ensuring capital flows broadly through the real economy rather than concentrating among wealthy or well-positioned groups. The OmPlus bond was designed with a low entry point and uses a "Small Lot First" allocation principle, prioritizing small retail investors to ensure fair access to government-backed assets.

For those who missed the first round, a second subscription period will open August 3-5, with a minimum investment of 1,000 baht and priority for small investors via the Bond Connect platform. The government is simultaneously working to help small and medium enterprises access credit and capital by using big data and alternative credit assessments, allowing financial institutions to evaluate business potential beyond traditional collateral requirements alone. This expanded credit access enables SMEs to circulate capital, expand operations, and maintain employment.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithaprasphat is overseeing these efforts in coordination with the Bank of Thailand, financial institutions, and relevant agencies. The government is also cracking down on informal money channels, underground lending, online gambling, and illicit financial transactions that distort fair competition and undermine legitimate businesses.

On the investment side, the government is strengthening policy stability and clarity to attract quality foreign investment in future industries—electric vehicles, data centers, digital economy, and clean energy—which will bring technology transfer, workforce development, and higher-paying job creation.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Police

Man Claims Dentist Extracted Wrong Tooth

A 64-year-old man is seeking justice after a dentist in Samut Prakan's Theparak area extracted the wrong tooth during his third scheduled procedure, leaving him unable to properly wear his denture and severely affecting his ability to eat.

Man Claims Dentist Extracted Wrong Tooth
2 Aug Khaosod

At 11:00 a.m. on August 2, 2569, Mr. Somboonsomphone (surname withheld), 64, filed a complaint with the "Sai Mai Tong Rawt" Facebook page seeking justice and assistance after suffering serious complications from a tooth extraction procedure at a dental clinic in the Theparak area. On June 5, he had visited the clinic for a preliminary examination, where the treating dentist identified three lower adjacent teeth requiring extraction, scheduled at one tooth per week over three weeks.

The first two extractions in weeks one and two were performed correctly by the original dentist. However, in week three, when the final tooth was scheduled for removal, a different dentist took over the case and mistakenly extracted a different tooth not covered by the treatment agreement. Because the patient was under anesthesia, he did not realize the error until he returned home and checked his mouth.

The wrong extraction has severely impacted his quality of life, as the incorrectly removed tooth was essential for anchoring his denture. He now struggles significantly with eating and chewing. When he attempted to contact the clinic for clarification, they refused to connect him with the original dentist and declined to take any responsibility. He subsequently filed a report with Samut Prakan Police before bringing the matter to the "Sai Mai Tong Rawt" page.

Ekkapon Luangprasert, founder of the "Sai Mai Tong Rawt" page, has urged Samut Prakan's provincial health department and police to investigate the dentist involved and compel her to issue a formal explanation and provide a replacement denture at no charge, given her direct responsibility for the error.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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