The government is stepping up enforcement against the use of Thai nationals as nominees for foreign business operations, with new inspection measures beginning August 1st. Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Phasisvivat revealed that the upgraded system will shift from basic document review to deep-data analysis, examining corporate registrations, shareholder structures, financial statements, accountant records, and related information to classify risk levels and identify potential nominee companies with precision. The approach improves law enforcement efficiency while minimizing impact on legitimate operators; officials may request additional evidence—such as financial documents and bank statements—from Thai shareholders to verify investment sources and ownership percentages, evaluating each case on its merits.

Lalida emphasized that the measure does not target all foreign investors or create barriers to overseas investment, but rather uses data and financial pathways to distinguish lawful business operators from those exploiting nominee structures to evade regulations. The government prioritizes building a transparent and fair investment climate alongside strict enforcement against violators. By raising inspection standards, the government aims to protect Thai businesses and honest investors, strengthen economic confidence, and ensure all competitors operate under equal rules.

On July 24, 2025, the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) released a statement regarding an air-conditioned bus on route 204 (vehicle number 8-55128) that became stranded on railway tracks at the Ratchaprarob intersection on July 23. The BMTA investigated using GPS data and questioned the driver and others involved. At approximately 10:30 a.m., while heading toward Bangkok Aphiwatana Station, the bus reached the intersection on a green light and proceeded normally. However, as it approached the railway crossing, traffic suddenly stopped, causing the bus to become stuck across the tracks. An inspector on board immediately took action following emergency safety protocols and coordinated with State Railway of Thailand officials and local volunteers to manage traffic until the bus could proceed. The driver has been disciplined according to BMTA regulations. The BMTA apologized for the incident and emphasized to all drivers the importance of strictly following rules and carefully assessing traffic conditions to ensure passenger safety.

Prime Minister Anuthine Charnveerakul and Minister of Interior will chair the Thailand Zero Dropout Plus (TZD+) awards ceremony on July 24, 2569, at the Phukit Bodin Building at Government House at 3:30 p.m. The event honors individuals and agencies playing key roles in addressing the dropout crisis among children and youth outside the formal education system, while reinforcing the goal of restoring educational opportunities and securing better futures for all Thai children.

Lieutenant General Paiumpun Chidchob, chair of the national committee on resolving the out-of-school children and youth problem, will report on the Thailand Zero Dropout Plus program's progress before the prime minister awards outstanding contributors and announces ongoing policy initiatives.

Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin receives this year's honorific award for originating and championing the Thailand Zero Dropout program as a national priority, enabling out-of-school children and youth to return to learning pathways and develop their potential appropriately. Additional awards go to provinces including Pattani and Yala, organizations such as the Kracok Ngeang Foundation and Sansiri Public Company Limited, and individuals including broadcaster Vivat Vongpattratith, in recognition of their substantial contributions to the Zero Dropout initiative.

A 13-year-old boy named Steev was struck by a gray pickup truck while walking along Ping River Road in Saraphee District, Chiang Mai on the evening of July 23, 2026. He suffered severe injuries and died shortly after. CCTV footage clearly captured the moment of impact, leading to widespread social media outcry demanding the driver's arrest.

Following online pressure, officers from Muang Chiang Mai Police Station and Panyakarn Wijitthidharmma from Pa Daet Subdistrict Administration apprehended the suspect. A breathalyzer test showed the driver's blood alcohol level at 178 milligrams per cent, well above the legal limit. Clear evidence of front-end collision damage was found on the vehicle.

The suspect initially attempted to flee but surrendered to the evidence. Police have charged him with three offenses and denied bail, preparing to bring him before the court for detention according to legal procedures. Investigators have confirmed they are expediting the case to ensure justice.

The Energy Policy and Planning Office reported updated fuel prices for July 24, 2026 across five major service stations following a diesel reduction at refineries effective from 5:00 AM. PTT prices include Gasohol 95 at 36.69 baht per liter, E20 at 31.69, E85 at 27.63, Gasohol 91 at 36.32, premium Gasohol 95 at 47.79, premium Gasohol 99 at 49.79, Benzene 95 at 45.68, diesel at 36.69, B20 diesel at 31.69, and premium diesel at 50.05 baht per liter. Bangchak offers similar grades with premium Gasohol 95 at 48.44 and premium diesel at 49.25 baht per liter. PT station prices include Gasohol 95 at 36.69, E20 at 31.69, Gasohol 91 at 36.32, Benzene 95 at 46.18, and diesel options at 36.69 and 31.69 baht per liter. Shell station prices range from 31.89 to 49.84 baht per liter across grades. Caltex prices include Gasohol 95 at 36.69, E20 at 31.69, Gasohol 91 at 36.32, Benzene 95 at 48.41, and diesel options from 31.69 to 49.25 baht per liter.

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

Phuket— Deputy Interior Minister Polpree Suwanchawee has intensified efforts to dismantle nominee business structures in Thailand, leading a high-profile inspection of hotels in Phuket suspected of foreign-controlled ownership. The campaign underscores the government’s stance that “Thailand’s land must belong to Thai people.” During the inspection of hotels across three districts in Phuket, authorities discovered three […] Unlicensed Hotels in Phuket Targeted as Thai Government Expands Nominee Investigations -=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=- The Phuket Express - Real. Unbiased. Impactful. In the moment.