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No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Woman Reports Attempted Break-In at Hat Yai Hotel

A woman reported an attempted break-in at a Hat Yai hotel after a male guest used a key card to open her door at 4 a.m. on August 16-17, with police now collecting evidence including CCTV footage.

Woman Reports Attempted Break-In at Hat Yai Hotel
19h ago Khaosod

A 34-year-old woman staying alone at a Hat Yai hotel was left frightened after a male guest repeatedly knocked on her door and allegedly used a key to open it around 04:00 on the night of 16-17 August. The man walked along the corridor knocking on several doors before coming to hers, then allegedly used a key to unlock her door. Although an interior security chain prevented him from entering fully, he reportedly reached through the opening and attempted to remove the chain. The woman immediately called hotel staff for help. The man was reportedly staying in a neighboring room and had allegedly behaved similarly two or three times before. Hotel staff only came to check the situation and took no further action, prompting the woman to file a complaint at Kho Hong Police Station in Hat Yai district, seeking legal action for alleged trespassing. She expressed concern about what could have happened if the man had managed to enter the room. Pol Col Apichart Wannako, chief of Kho Hong Police Station, ordered investigators to urgently collect evidence, including CCTV footage, to pursue legal action.

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National

Thai Diving Coach Recalled to Prep Athletes for 2026 Asian Games

Thailand recalls Chinese diving coach Baiyun Ping to prepare two elite divers for the 2026 Asian Games after budget constraints prevented sending them to train in China.

Thai Diving Coach Recalled to Prep Athletes for 2026 Asian Games
19h ago Khaosod

Thailand's diving team is preparing for the 2026 Asian Games by bringing back Coach Baiyun Ping, a former Chinese national coach, to train two Thai athletes. Head coach Suchart Pichi explained that the team initially sought budget approval to send divers Thitiphumi Maksin and Chavalavat Chanphodawanl to train in China, but budget constraints led to inviting Coach Baiyun Ping to Thailand instead.

Coach Baiyun Ping, who previously coached Thailand's national diving team, is helping refine diving techniques and build strength in the two leading Thai athletes. The athletes are adjusting to his more intense training regimen, which is more demanding than their previous preparation. The diving federation also invited Ping to share knowledge and experience with Thailand's youth national team at Thammasat University's aquatic center.

Permanent employment of Coach Baiyun Ping is unlikely due to health constraints limiting long-term team management, though short-term assignments remain possible. Ping noted that Thai diving athletes are talented but lack internationally standard training equipment. Training in China provides better facilities, though he would willingly coach in Thailand if proper equipment becomes available. Ping previously served as Mexico's diving coach starting in 2005, leading them to a bronze medal at the 2008 Olympic Games before his return to assist Thailand.

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National

Officials Treat Injured Wild Elephant in Kanchanaburi

Veterinarians successfully treated a 40-year-old wild elephant named Sidor for a left hind leg injury in Kanchanaburi's forests using drones and night operations, administering anti-inflammatory and painkiller injections while managing safe

Officials Treat Injured Wild Elephant in Kanchanaburi
19h ago Khaosod

On August 18, 2025, Environment and Natural Resources Minister Suchart Chomklin revealed that he received a progress report from Arthapol Jarengsunthasana, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, regarding the tracking and treatment of a wild elephant named Sidor, approximately 40 years old, injured in its left hind leg. The elephant was located in forest near Ban Wang Dang village, Wang Dang Subdistrict, Muang Kanchanaburi District, Kanchanaburi Province, outside the Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary.

A team of veterinarians from Conservation Area Administration 3 (Ban Pong) worked with Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary officers to track and treat the elephant continuously. On August 17, staff used drones to search known locations but found no trace until 9:30 p.m., when residents reported a wild elephant in the area. Drone surveillance confirmed it was Sidor foraging in dense forest, with two other wild elephants nearby.

Officials coordinated a three-part operation: a drone team to monitor movement and establish safety zones, ground staff to encourage the elephant away from dense forest and prevent grouping with other elephants, and a veterinary team to provide treatment from a safe distance. By 1:00 a.m. on August 18, the operation succeeded, with staff administering two injections—an anti-inflammatory and a painkiller—to Sidor. All personnel remained safe.

"I thank and commend the veterinary team from Conservation Area Administration 3 and all Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary staff who worked with full dedication despite operating at night in difficult jungle conditions with other wild elephants present, which posed serious risk," Suchart said. "Yet they remained committed to helping and caring for Sidor completely."

The minister instructed staff to maintain close observation of Sidor's behavior and condition through rotating shifts to assess progress and plan ongoing treatment. He also appealed to local residents to avoid approaching or disturbing wild elephants if sighted and to report immediately to officials so operations can proceed safely for both the public and wildlife.

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National

Thailand Launches Free Solar Panel Installation Program

Thailand's Energy Ministry launched a free solar panel installation program allowing citizens to install rooftop systems with no upfront costs, repaying through monthly electricity bill savings over 5-7 years. The government streamlined per

Thailand Launches Free Solar Panel Installation Program
19h ago Khaosod

The Energy Ministry is pushing the "solar rooftop" program, enabling citizens to install solar panels for free with no upfront payment, repaying costs through their electricity bills using monthly savings. Conclusions are expected within a month. Energy Ministry spokesperson Pongsapol Yodemuangcharoen said the ministry, led by Energy Minister Eknathai Saipangphan, has removed critical barriers by eliminating restrictions and streamlining the solar installation permit process to completion within seven days, and grid connection approvals to 30 days—previously taking a year. The government has also expanded clean energy purchases from the public by an additional 500 megawatts and is implementing the Finance Ministry's 500 million baht budget initiative to support rooftop solar installations. State financial institutions including the Government Savings Bank and Government Housing Bank will provide low-interest lending through an "install free, pay via electricity bill" model with these details: No upfront cost—the state subsidizes approximately 50,000 baht per household, targeting one million homes, plus low-interest credit (2-4 percent annually) from state banks. Repayment from electricity savings—participants use monthly electricity bill reductions to pay monthly installments. Immediate results—a 5kW system produces roughly 600 units monthly, saving approximately 2,150–2,200 baht per month; with payback in 5-7 years, monthly payments remain lower than savings, so residents see reduced electricity costs from the first month. "This elevates Thais to 'Prosumers'—both producers and consumers—or energy entrepreneurs achieving energy independence. Every 1,000 megawatts of rooftop solar Thailand produces reduces average electricity costs by 0.9 satang per unit. If this one-million-rooftop initiative succeeds—equivalent to 5,000 megawatts—it will cut expensive LNG imports and permanently reduce the national average electricity rate by nearly 5 satang per unit. This policy benefits all stakeholders: citizens reduce expenses, the state cuts energy imports, and the world gains clean power. We await clarity on the program model from the utility and expect conclusions in about a month. I want to see the million-rooftop solar initiative realized in Thailand and am ready to champion this policy to the fullest," Pongsapol said.

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Police

Drug Suspect Shot in Gunfight After Ramming Police Vehicle

A drug suspect wanted for methamphetamine trafficking opened fire on police in Tha Sala District after ramming a patrol vehicle, and was critically wounded in the ensuing gunfight near a fruit orchard.

Drug Suspect Shot in Gunfight After Ramming Police Vehicle
19h ago Khaosod

At 9:30 a.m. on August 18, 2025, Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Police from Phrom Khiri Station received a report that a suspect with an arrest warrant had rammed a police vehicle and fled. Officers pursued a red Isuzu pickup truck heading toward Tha Sala District. When the suspect reached a fruit orchard in Mueang Subdistrict, Tha Sala District, he realized he was cornered and opened fire on officers to create an escape route, leading to an exchange of gunfire. The suspect was struck and critically wounded, while officers remained safe. He was given first aid and transported to Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital.

The suspect was identified as Piyanat (surname withheld), 34, wanted under Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Court warrant number 113/2569 issued February 23, 2025, on charges of conspiracy to commit serious drug offenses and unauthorized sale of methamphetamine, Category 1 drug. Police found bullet holes in the truck's rear bed and back window, and forensic officers were called to examine the vehicle. The arrest occurred during an operation called "Fah Sang Klang Meung Khon" (Clear the City Centre), a citywide firearms and explosives sweep. When officers arrived to search the suspect's home, he resisted, attempted to ram the truck into police multiple times, and then opened fire. He was wounded critically in the exchange and remains in custody for legal proceedings.

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National

Education Ministry Rejects Nationwide Hair Policy Changes

Thailand's Education Ministry rejected recommendations to relax student hair policies, saying schools—not the ministry—set hairstyle rules and that amending child protection law would be inappropriate for the issue.

Education Ministry Rejects Nationwide Hair Policy Changes
19h ago Khaosod

The Ministry of Education has rejected calls to relax student hair regulations, saying it has no direct authority to impose or set hairstyle rules. On August 18, Education Minister Prasert Chantharueangthong revealed after a Cabinet meeting that the ministry had prepared a report on recommendations from the National Human Rights Commission regarding student hair rights and guidelines, submitted to the Cabinet for acknowledgment. This followed the Cabinet's referral of the commission's recommendations to the ministry for consideration since 2024.

The minister stated that the commission's recommendations contained two key points. First, the commission proposed that the ministry clarify student rights and freedoms regarding hairstyles to prevent rights violations or unnecessary restrictions. However, the ministry concluded it has no direct power to issue regulations on student hairstyles, as such internal school policies fall under the authority and management of individual schools. The ministry already has clear guidelines on this matter, established since 2023 following advice from the Office of the Council of State, which require schools to bring the hair issue into discussions involving school committees, teachers, parents, and students to reach conclusions suited to each school's context.

"Regarding the second point, the commission proposed that the ministry amend the Child Protection Act of 2003 to explicitly recognize student hair rights in law. However, the ministry concluded that the act's core purpose focuses on child safety, and matters of dress or hairstyles fall outside the law's scope. Therefore, student hair rights cannot be directly legislated through this law, as it may conflict with the law's intent and scope," the minister said.

Prasert added that this Cabinet report represents the ministry's completion of its review of the commission's recommendations. The ministry continues to emphasize that schools should handle hair policies appropriately, creating space for all parties—especially students—to voice their opinions, ensuring school management aligns with context while respecting student rights alongside school regulations.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Opposition Leader Accuses PM of Shirking Exam Cheating Crackdown

Opposition leader Nattapong Rueangpanya accused the government of evading responsibility by delegating the removal of 5,925 cheating civil servants to reluctant local authorities instead of taking direct action itself.

Opposition Leader Accuses PM of Shirking Exam Cheating Crackdown
19h ago Khaosod

On August 18, 2025, Nattapong Rueangpanya, a People's Party list MP and party leader, spoke at the Prachuap Khiri Khan Administrative Organization assembly hall regarding the government's decision to task local authorities with removing 5,925 civil servants caught cheating on examinations. Some local authorities have been reluctant to act, fearing they lack legal authority and may face legal consequences. Nattapong stated: "This approach clearly shows the government lacks political courage. It merely gives daily media responses claiming to be serious, but when real action requiring accountability is needed, it chooses to push the burden onto others." He further argued that resolving local civil service exam fraud ultimately hinges on political accountability and those in power. He questioned whether the Ministry of Interior and Prime Minister truly lack authority, suggesting instead that they are avoiding responsibility and evading oversight mechanisms. Nattapong also criticized government statements downplaying any political connections to the fraud case, saying this reflects an unwillingness to allow opposition scrutiny and a clear lack of political courage to permit the opposition to conduct proper investigations.

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Community

CJ MORE Closes Golden Microphone Tour in Rayong with Worker Concert

CJ MORE closed its Golden Microphone On-Tour concert series in Rayong's industrial zone, giving migrant factory workers a chance to perform and unwind. Two contestants advanced to the national television competition following the final even

CJ MORE Closes Golden Microphone Tour in Rayong with Worker Concert
20h ago Khaosod

CJ MORE supermarket held its fifth Golden Microphone On-Tour event at the Wat Ma Byang Phorn branch in Pluak Daeng District, Rayong on Saturday, August 15, 2025. The event transformed the storefront activity area in the heart of the industrial zone into a space for factory workers and young people to recharge and relieve stress after grueling daily shifts. This Rayong stop marked the official season finale following successful tours of branches in Sakaeo, Chachoengsao, Surin, Ayutthaya, and Phitsanulok, with the company grateful for the warm reception from local industrial communities.

Pluak Daeng was selected as the final destination because it is a major hub for migrant workers from provinces across Thailand working away from home. CJ MORE and partner brands brought a nationwide entertainment lineup to the factory gates, allowing workers to shop and enjoy free entertainment without spending time and fuel traveling into Rayong city. The day featured an atmosphere where workers in uniforms and work clothes took turns singing, sharing messages and homesickness for their hometowns, with Thai country music serving as a unifying language connecting migrant hearts and creating a warm community that helped ease loneliness.

Judges and hosts from the "Golden Microphone Three Generations" programme on Workpoint TV Channel 23 provided guidance and nationwide-level experience. After intense competition throughout the day, the judging panel of Pauli Prapimol, Leo Atthip Soda, and Jakrapong Hanphirom selected two finalists to advance to the television programme: Kosol Geatsuk, a 31-year-old poultry vendor from Sisaket Province, and Anupong Inrueangsiree, a 27-year-old from Kalasin Province. Both expressed excitement about the opportunity and praised CJ MORE's professional production with its lighting, sound, and overall organisation.

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National

100 Plus Launches Thailand Tennis League 2026 With 500,000 Baht Prize Pool

The 100 Plus Thai Tennis League 2026 launches with a 500,000-baht prize pool and record participation of 19 teams and 550 athletes across three competitive divisions.

100 Plus Launches Thailand Tennis League 2026 With 500,000 Baht Prize Pool
20h ago Khaosod

Rojnasit Meenichsin, Sports Director of Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, announced the 100 Plus Thai Tennis League 2026 at Royal Ratchapruek Club on August 18, 2024. The tournament is co-organized by Tammareen Thanasukayanun, a former Thai national tennis player ranked 19th in the world, and enjoys support from ASICS Thailand, Head, and Suntory MRP, as well as the Thai Lawn Tennis Association under Royal Patronage and the Thai Senior Tennis Association.

Thanasukayanun reported record participation this year with 19 teams and 550 athletes, up from 16 teams in the previous year. The competition is divided into three divisions: Cup A (4 teams), Cup B (7 teams), and Cup C (8 teams). Cup A champions receive 100,000 baht, the highest prize in any Thai tennis tournament. Beyond prize money, the event awards 15 special honors across all divisions, including Best Manager Award, Best Coach Awards, and Most Valuable Player Awards recognizing top male and female athletes in each category.

Thanasukayanun emphasized the tournament's unique appeal as a mixed-level competition bringing together tennis players of all abilities in a single, friendship-focused event. She expressed gratitude to sponsors, particularly 100 Plus, which has supported her career from her playing days through her current role as tournament director, helping grow Thailand's tennis community.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Community

Collector's Guide to Sought-After Thai Monk Amulets

Collectors prize rare Thai Buddhist amulets including the 1974 Luang Pu Sim medal from Chiang Mai and the highly valuable 1952 Luang Pho Chom medal from Surat Thani, one of southern Thailand's most prestigious amulets.

Collector's Guide to Sought-After Thai Monk Amulets
20h ago Khaosod

The article features several highly sought-after Buddhist amulets and their histories. The Luang Pu Sim Budhajarero Mercy Medal was first cast in 1974 at Tham Pha Plong monastery in Chiang Mai's Prao district to raise funds for medicine and patient care; it comes in gold, silver, lead, and copper versions and features a half-length image with the word 'Mercy' inscribed below. The first-edition Luang Pho Chom medal from Wat Tha Sai in Surat Thani, created in 1952 during a Buddha image casting ceremony with only 3,000 pieces minted, is ranked among the most prestigious and valuable amulets of southern Thailand. The article also covers Luang Pu Iem Suvanasoro's four-yantra and five-yantra medals from Bangkok's Wat Nang Rajwarawiharn, cast in 1924 and 1925 respectively, with the five-yantra version remaining the most popular of all time. Finally, it describes Luang Pho Fu's Mantra of Khayal amulet from Wat Bang Samak in Chachoengsao, created to fund a naga-staircase construction project at Wat Chuk Kaeo in Chonburi, featuring an egg-shaped design with a meditating monk image and a Hanuman figure on the reverse.

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Police

Woman Admits to Marriage Scam, Says Divorce Was Recent

A contract teacher admitted to romance scam after a subdistrict administrator discovered she was still married when she met him on a dating app in June, having collected over 514,000 baht from him in just weeks.

Woman Admits to Marriage Scam, Says Divorce Was Recent
20h ago Khaosod

On August 18, the radio program Hone Kra-Sae presented the case of Tae, a subdistrict administrator, who sought justice through the broadcast. He accused Kru Nam, a contract teacher, of deception and romance scams, claiming she received over 300,000 baht in dowry and another 200,000 baht in various transfers.

The two met on June 14 through a dating application. Kru Nam claimed to be single and had just downloaded the app. After exchanging contact information and chatting, they met in person on July 10 and agreed to date. Tae said he was impressed when she offered to help him pursue further education.

Tae reported making his first transfer of 28,000 baht on July 20 for tuition. On July 21, he transferred 70,000 baht in the morning for education costs and 300,000 baht in the evening as agreed dowry so he could move into her home, which he did on July 22. He also transferred 23,000 baht on July 23, totaling over 514,800 baht.

The truth emerged on August 3 when Tae's friend grew suspicious and investigated, discovering wedding photos of Kru Nam. On August 4, the friend confirmed that Kru Nam's husband is a naval officer and that they had registered their divorce that very morning, though Kru Nam lied to Tae that same morning, saying she was having breakfast with friends.

Kru Nam admitted she had married the naval officer on May 10, 2569—just one month before contacting Tae in June. She claimed they separated in early June and sought someone to heal her emotional wounds, saying she did not want to be disappointed again. Kru Nam's mother stated that her daughter had broken up with the naval officer long before, and while she knew of the marriage, she was unaware that a divorce registration had occurred.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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