Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Thailand Pushes Nakhon Sawan Biocomplex as ASEAN Hub

Thailand is positioning the Nakhon Sawan Biocomplex as a regional bioeconomy leader, converting sugarcane into high-value products like bioplastic PLA to boost agricultural value and support its green economic model.

Thailand Pushes Nakhon Sawan Biocomplex as ASEAN Hub
22 Jul Khaosod

Industry Minister Warawut Silpaarchai and senior executives toured the Nakhon Sawan Biocomplex in Takli District, Nakhon Sawan Province—a model for Thailand's bioeconomy development that converts agricultural crops, especially sugarcane, into high-value products such as bioplastic PLA, which is in global demand.

The project is central to advancing the government's bioeconomy agenda, boosting agricultural product value, generating local income and employment, while promoting environmentally friendly industrial development in line with Thailand's BCG economic model. The Nakhon Sawan Biocomplex is managed by GCC-KTIS Bioindustrial Company Limited, a joint venture between Global Green Chemical Public Company Limited (GGC) and Thai Agricultural International Sugar Corporation Public Company Limited (KTIS), comprising two main components:

1. Primary bioprocess industries including a sugarcane mill processing 24,000 tons daily, an ethanol plant producing 600,000 liters per day, and a biomass power plant with 85-megawatt combined capacity.

2. Value-added industries converting agricultural output, including a bioplastic manufacturing facility operated by NatureWorks producing PLA (Polylactic Acid) from 100-percent sugarcane-derived sugar at 75,000 tons annually—the world's second fully integrated bioplastic facility after one in Blair, Nebraska, which uses corn as its primary feedstock.

The ministry plans to work with relevant agencies to increase bioplastic adoption domestically, address environmental concerns and greenhouse gas emissions, elevate Thailand's sugarcane and sugar value, strengthen the biotech sector, and position Thailand as Southeast Asia's bioeconomy hub.

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National

Election Commission Opens Seven Counts Against Former Senate Speaker

The Election Commission is investigating a former Senate speaker on seven counts with an August deadline, though officials acknowledge some evidence gaps and worry that requesting additional inquiries could invite accusations of delaying th

Election Commission Opens Seven Counts Against Former Senate Speaker
22 Jul Khaosod

The Election Commission is investigating a case against a former Senate speaker on seven counts, with the chair planning to wrap up the investigation by August. Some counts remain unclear, and officials worry that ordering additional inquiries could invite accusations of stalling the case. There is also uncertainty about where the advocacy group iLaw obtained certain information.

On July 22, EC commissioner Sitthichai Intravisesa addressed public skepticism about the EC's handling of the case. He explained that the subcommittee's investigation records serve as the primary repository of all evidence. If new evidence exists but was not submitted to the subcommittee for unclear reasons, it is unfortunate, since the EC must evaluate evidence that has been vetted and contested by both the accuser and the accused.

Regarding iLaw director Yingcheep Atchanunt releasing old information already in the official records, Sitthichai expressed uncertainty about the source and warned of potential damage to the prosecution. If the information reaches court, it could allow the accused to prepare a defense or witness evidence could be destroyed.

On public concerns about EC impartiality—four EC members were appointed by the current Senate, raising fears of influence—Sitthichai argued that EC members are competent and will exercise independent judgment in the public interest.

Regarding progress, Sitthichai said the investigation is proceeding well across multiple counts of the seven filed. Only minor details and important politically sensitive matters remain, expected to be addressed in mid-August. When asked if the case would be resolved this year, he confirmed that the EC chair has set an August deadline unlikely to be extended.

Even if evidence is incomplete, ordering additional investigation risks delays and accusations of case-manipulation. The subcommittee, which had only four months to work after a delayed start, has moved quickly by leveraging the EC's power to request documents from the Special Investigation Department (DSI). Though the EC did not inherit the DSI's case file, it has established a joint investigation committee with legal authority to access DSI documents, enabling faster work.

Some matters the subcommittee wished to pursue further ran out of time due to public pressure for speed. The EC faces a dilemma: ordering more investigation risks appearing to stall the case, but the investigation may be incomplete.

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National

Top Officials Convene to Drive Government Policy Innovation

Top government officials launched a policy innovation workshop in Bangkok to develop integrated solutions for Thailand's three priority challenges: human capital development, AI governance, and environmental restoration, emphasizing cross-s

Top Officials Convene to Drive Government Policy Innovation
22 Jul Khaosod

On July 22, 2025, at the Centara Hotel in Bangkok's government complex, Deputy Prime Minister Yuthasak Wongsuwan designated Thiirattana Samrenjwanitchaya, assistant minister to the Prime Minister's Office, to chair the opening of a workshop to define guidelines for advancing key government policies. The event brought together participants from the Senior Executive Development Program: Leaders of Change (SEPD curriculum) at all four levels—SEPD 1 through 4—for the 2025 fiscal year. Natphol Natthasombun, director of the SEPD office, led the welcoming delegation.

This meeting continues Deputy Prime Minister Yuthasak's July 16 initiative, which emphasizes the Policy Innovation Lab process. SEPD 1 executives define integrated policy challenges and pass them to SEPD levels 2–4 for joint study, fieldwork, and policy prototype development that leads to real-world implementation. Government policy cannot succeed through a single ministry alone; it requires cross-sector integration. This year, three priority national challenges have been identified: (1) Human Capital for Thailand's Future, developing talent to meet tomorrow's changes; (2) AI Governance for Thailand, applying science, technology, and AI to strengthen the public sector and boost competitiveness; and (3) Nature Positive Thailand, restoring natural capital and biodiversity for sustainable growth.

Thiirattana illustrated the principle with Chiang Rai's recent flood and landslide response, noting that the Interior Ministry alone could not solve it. Success required coordination among the Defence Ministry, National Water Resources Office, and other agencies—integrating weather forecasting, water management, transport, public health, and disaster recovery to help people swiftly and comprehensively.

The heart of national development, she stressed, lies in shifting from ministry-by-ministry governance to integrated country management centered on the people. The SEPD curriculum will build cooperation networks and strengthen Thailand's civil service to be more agile, coordinated, and responsive to citizens efficiently and sustainably.

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Police

Phuket Money Exchange Robbed of 627,000 Baht

A thief disguised as a foreigner stole 627,000 baht from a Phuket money exchange shop on July 19, with police now suspecting the suspect is a Thai national who knew the safe's access code.

22 Jul The Thaiger Crime

Phuket money exchange theft suspect disguises himself as foreignerLegacyA thief, who may have been posing as a foreigner, remains at large after stealing more than 600,000 baht from a currency exchange shop inside a shopping mall in Phuket on Sunday, July 19. The owner of the exchange business in Phuket reported the theft to Wichit Police Station after an employee discovered the incident at about 9.30am on July 20. Staff arrived at the shop and found the safe open, with cash in several currencies missing. CCTV footage showed the theft occurred between 9.13pm and 9.15pm on July 19, shortly before both the shop and the shopping centre closed. Staff initially believed the suspect was a foreign man. The CCTV footage showed a person wearing a black jacket with white stripes, black shorts, a dark blue cap, glasses and a moustache. The suspect also appeared to be wearing rubber gloves. Photo via Facebook/ Phuketandamannews Investigators said the suspect moved directly to the safe without hesitation, suggesting prior knowledge of the shop’s layout. Police said the stolen money totalled 627,083 baht, including 175,050 baht, 50 euros, 50,000 Russian rubles, US$11,700 and 1,000 Swiss francs. Following further investigation, officers said they now believe the suspect may be a Thai national who disguised himself as a foreigner by wearing a brown fake moustache. Police added that the thief knew the safe’s access code, prompting investigators to examine whether the suspect had previously worked at the business or had access to someone familiar with the password. Photo via Facebook/ Phuketandamannews The owner, shareholders and employees have all been questioned as police continue investigating who had knowledge of the safe code. Police have not released any further updates on the investigation. The case follows another currency exchange theft reported in Bangkok last year, when an Indian national was arrested after stealing 100,000 baht from a money exchange shop in Bang Rak district. Police later recovered 50,000 baht from the suspect, who denied the allegation despite investigators saying they had sufficient evidence to file charges.

The story Phuket money exchange theft suspect disguises himself as foreigner as seen on Thaiger News.

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Regional

Nara United to Release Brazilian Star After License Rejection

Nara United will release Brazilian striker Lucas Grossi after losing its professional license appeal, with the 27-year-old expected to join either Chonburi FC or PTT Rayong FC in Thai League competition.

Nara United to Release Brazilian Star After License Rejection
22 Jul Khaosod

Nara United chairman Affan Hasyiyusso announced the necessity of releasing Brazilian striker Lucas Grossi after the club failed its professional club licensing. The appeals committee upheld the original decision denying Nara United—which had qualified for Thai League 2—a professional license, forcing the club to restart in the semi-professional league instead.

Hasyiyusso confirmed that Nara United still holds a one-year contract with key striker Lucas Grossi, but the player wants to move to Thai League competition. Both Chonburi FC and PTT Rayong FC have expressed interest, and the Brazilian forward is expected to decide his next team soon.

"Grossi's contract with us still has one year left," the Nara United chairman said. "He originally intended to stay with us to play in Thai League 2, but the licensing issue makes it difficult to keep him, even though we could."

"Grossi wants to play at a higher level, and he's already 27 years old now. Given our good relationship with the player, we're willing to let him move. We've left the decision to Grossi himself."

"There are genuine offers from Thai League clubs—both Chonburi FC and PTT Rayong FC have submitted proposals for him to consider. Grossi is returning from Brazil and will stay in Hat Yai for one night to handle visa matters and decide which team to join. We should have an answer tomorrow."

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Police

Police Bust Phone Shops in Yala, Arrest 3 Sellers of Ghost SIM Cards

Cyber police arrested three people in Yala's Betong district for illegally selling over 1,100 ghost SIM cards registered under false identities to Thai and Malaysian customers.

Police Bust Phone Shops in Yala, Arrest 3 Sellers of Ghost SIM Cards
22 Jul Khaosod

Cyber police have raided phone and SIM card shops in Yala, arresting three people suspected of illegally selling ghost SIM cards to Malaysian and Thai residents. Police seized more than 1,000 registered SIM cards from the suspects. The operation was launched on July 22, 2025, after officials discovered that the shops had been covertly selling pre-registered SIM cards to Malaysian and Thai customers in Yala province for an extended period. Officers conducted an undercover purchase, then executed searches at two phone shops in the Betong district, leading to the arrest of Kiartkhun (45), Achiranya (33), and Thitiya (48). All three suspects face charges under Thailand's Cybercrime Prevention and Suppression Act B.E. 2566, specifically for facilitating the sale of phone numbers registered under false identities that cannot be traced to actual users. A total of 1,184 ghost SIM cards were recovered. The suspects have been taken into custody and the case forwarded for prosecution.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Opposition Leader Urges PM to Answer Questions, Not Sue Critic

Opposition whip Priset Wattharasindhoo called on the PM and ministers to answer questions about alleged vote-buying and meeting with senators rather than pursue lawsuits against their accusers.

Opposition Leader Urges PM to Answer Questions, Not Sue Critic
22 Jul Khaosod

On July 22, opposition whip Priset Wattharasindhoo spoke at Parliament about plans by Bhumjaithai Party to sue iLaw director Yingluck Achananon, who revealed nine Bhumjaithai politicians in alleged vote-buying scheme allegations on July 21. Priset said the PM and relevant ministers should answer specific questions rather than pursue lawsuits. He cited allegations that the PM met with senators regarding the election of Senate leadership, arguing the PM should simply clarify whether he attended the hotel meeting and what was discussed. Priset raised similar points about Deputy PM Somsakdi Thongsree and former MP Supchai Pothisu, saying all three should provide factual clarifications instead of suing their accusers. Priset stressed that independent investigation agencies—the Election Commission and DSI—are better positioned to verify claims through hotel CCTV footage and telephone records. He argued that regardless of age, officials must respond to allegations transparently. When asked if the lawsuit amounts to intimidation, Priset stated that people can judge the government's intentions; if officials are innocent, they need only confirm the facts.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Swensen's Ultra Smooth Ice Cream Sells Out in 3 Hours

Swensen's Ultra Smooth ice cream sold out within three hours of its July 22 launch, with just 100 cups offered across five locations at the promotional price of 89 baht.

Swensen's Ultra Smooth Ice Cream Sells Out in 3 Hours
22 Jul Khaosod

American ice cream brand Swensen's launched its newest menu item on July 22, promoting an "Ultra Smooth 40-Year San Francisco Formula" ice cream that customers could chew and photograph. The flavor combines mocha, almond fudge, mixed nuts, and rich caramel sauce (with customizable flavors available) at the promotional price of 89 baht, down from the regular 500+ baht, and included a free spoon and glass. With only 100 cups offered across five locations, Swensen's announced just three hours after the product launch that it had sold out, thanking customers for the overwhelming response and promising a return of the flavor soon.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Police

Man Attacks Officer During Arrest After Prowling Cars in Phatthalung

A man who was prowling parked cars and attempting to remove license plates in Phatthalung attacked a police officer who arrived to arrest him, breaking the officer's tooth during the struggle.

Man Attacks Officer During Arrest After Prowling Cars in Phatthalung
22 Jul Khaosod

At 12:20 p.m. on July 22, 2025, Deputy Superintendent Manit Wanchueay of Muang Phatthalung Police Station and patrol officers responded to reports of suspicious activity on Chaiyaburi Road in Kao Chiak Subdistrict, Muang District, Phatthalung Province. Residents had reported an unknown man exhibiting unusual behavior, walking around and examining parked vehicles along the roadway in a manner that caused public alarm.

Investigators found the man had parked a Honda Wave 100 motorcycle on the roadside and knocked it over before walking among several parked cars. He bent down to peer through windows into the vehicles and attempted to remove license plates from private cars, prompting frightened residents to call police for assistance.

When officers arrived, the man had already walked approximately 800 meters from the initial location. Deputy Superintendent Manit approached and attempted to communicate with him, but the suspect spoke only Malay and became aggressive. The man punched the officer in the face with significant force, breaking his tooth during the encounter. Other patrol officers quickly intervened, subdued the suspect after a period of resistance, and took him into custody. The suspect sustained facial abrasions during the apprehension.

The suspect was identified as Hussein, 49, from Pattani Province. Medics provided emergency first aid before transporting him to Phatthalung Hospital for treatment. Investigators charged him with assaulting a government officer performing his duty and damaging private property. Police are continuing to investigate the man's motive, background, and travel history into Phatthalung Province, as well as determining whether he is connected to any other crimes.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Community

Young Mahout Shares Her Love for Playful Elephant Phueang

Young mahout Anutida Kaemsuk discovered her passion caring for Phueang, a playful 4-year-old bull elephant in Surin, after finding unexpected purpose in the role once thought unsuitable for women. Through daily care and social media content

Young Mahout Shares Her Love for Playful Elephant Phueang
22 Jul Khaosod

Nineteen-year-old mahout Anutida Kaemsuk shares her journey caring for Phueang, a 4-year-old bull elephant in Surin province. She explains that she never imagined becoming a mahout, especially as a woman, but after finishing school with no clear direction, she began helping her father care for the young elephant—bathing him, feeding him, and spending every day with him until she realized this was her true passion.

Anutida describes her relationship with Phueang as a family bond rather than a pet-owner dynamic. She sees Phueang as a family member and finds happiness watching him grow and thrive. The young elephant exhibits a personality much like a mischievous 4-year-old child, remembering when he receives fruit and playfully approaching Anutida seeking treats. His endearing, silly behavior brings her a smile every day.

Her daily duties begin early, cleaning up after Phueang and his sleeping area, then bathing him before preparing for live-stream content. In the afternoons, she takes him for walks and sometimes films clips for social media, though she never pushes him if he is tired. Most of her work takes place outdoors, so she protects herself with sunscreen, sun shirts, and hats, but prioritizes Phueang's care above her own skin health.

Anutida expresses her greatest pride in doing work she loves while being surrounded by what she loves. Through her channel, she hopes to showcase the gentleness, brightness, and intelligence of Thai elephants, encouraging conservation and deeper understanding of both the animals and the mahouts who care for them. She is grateful for every comment praising Phueang's cuteness and intelligence, as it motivates her to continue sharing the joy of being a mahout.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Police

Bus Driver Files Assault Charges Against Three on Motorway

A bus driver filed assault charges against three people after a roadside altercation on a motorway escalated into a collision, with police investigating conflicting accounts of who initiated the confrontation.

Bus Driver Files Assault Charges Against Three on Motorway
22 Jul Khaosod

On July 22, 2025, Pol. Maj. Bandit Thummanant, superintendent of Bang Pakong police station, reported that an injured bus driver came to file assault charges the previous evening. The driver named three suspects—one who boarded the bus to punch him and two others below—on charges of bodily assault. Police are currently investigating details before calling all three suspects in for questioning, expected on Friday.

During questioning, one of the accused claimed the injured driver attempted to ram the group while they were parked on the roadside to clear the area. However, this remains an allegation pending further investigation.

Investigators interviewed the injured driver, who stated he had just pulled over onto the roadside when the other party suddenly appeared, insulted him, and boarded the bus to assault him. At that moment, the bus had not fully stopped (was not in neutral). When attacked, he startled and stepped on the accelerator, causing the bus to collide with a vehicle ahead belonging to the other party's company.

The injured driver maintains he had no intention to ram anyone but panicked and stepped on the gas. Investigators note that if the other party files charges regarding the collision, it would be the highway authority's responsibility since the incident occurred on the motorway, while the assault case falls under Bang Pakong police station's jurisdiction.

When asked if the two buses had prior contact, Pol. Maj. Bandit said there was no previous collision, but rather an abrupt lane change that sparked the dispute.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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