Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Thai Government Launches Price-Cutting Campaign With Local Retailers

Thailand's government launches "Thai Help Thai x Local Low Cost" from August 1-15, offering discounts up to 60% on essentials across 800 local shops nationwide while boosting market access for small businesses and community producers.

Thai Government Launches Price-Cutting Campaign With Local Retailers
26 Jul Khaosod

The government, through the Ministry of Commerce, is advancing measures to reduce the cost of living for citizens while supporting grassroots entrepreneurs through the "Thai Help Thai x Local Low Cost" program running August 1–15, 2026. The initiative involves a network of more than 130 local wholesale and retail shops, totaling roughly 800 branches nationwide, offering consumer goods at special prices alongside expanded sales channels for SMEs and community product manufacturers.

According to Deputy Spokesperson Lalida Perisiwiwat of the Prime Minister's Office, participating shops will sell essential consumer goods at special prices, with featured items receiving discounts of up to 60 percent, including rice, fish sauce, seasoning sauces, and everyday household products. The Department of Business Development will formally launch the program on August 1, 2026, at Tani Gee Superstore in Nadi, Udon Thani Province.

The program's key strength is using local retail networks as a mechanism linking producers with consumers in each area, enabling SMEs and community products to access expanded distribution channels and reach more customers, thereby keeping money circulating within provincial and community economies. "The 'Thai Help Thai x Local Low Cost' program aims to simultaneously reduce the financial burden on citizens and create market opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs, using more than 800 local shops as a distribution network connecting community producers directly with consumers," Lalida said.

The deputy spokesperson noted that local shops are crucial engines of grassroots economics because they are close to consumers, understand local needs, and can efficiently distribute small business products to market. The program thus not only helps reduce living costs in the short term but also strengthens local entrepreneurs and creates long-term growth opportunities for community enterprises. The government invites the public to participate in purchasing discounted goods from the program and to follow store lists, branches, and participating products through the Department of Business Development and Ministry of Commerce. Discounts of up to 60 percent represent the maximum available, though specific products and discount rates may vary by store and branch.

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National

Ex-Justice Minister Urges Dialogue Over Lawsuits Against iLaw

Former Justice Minister Thaweesak Soisong calls for dialogue instead of lawsuits against activist Yingcheep Atchanon, warning that prosecuting him for exposing alleged senatorial corruption could constitute illegal suppression of free speec

Ex-Justice Minister Urges Dialogue Over Lawsuits Against iLaw
26 Jul Khaosod

Pol. Lt. Col. Thaweesak Soisong, leader of the Prachathai Party and former Justice Minister, has commented on plans by the Prime Minister, cabinet ministers, and several politicians to prosecute iLaw activist Yingcheep Atchanon for defamation following an event exposing alleged corruption by senators.

Soisong stated that the freedom to express political opinions represents an essential form of democratic participation that the government should promote, not restrict, in accordance with constitutional provisions. He emphasized this principle applies not only to Yingcheep but to all citizens. When officials believe allegations are untrue, they should respond with factual clarification showing where the public has been misled and demonstrate willingness to submit to judicial scrutiny, rather than filing charges that create conflict.

Soisong warned that pursuing cases against both Yingcheep and the public risks the appearance of using legal mechanisms to suppress freedom of speech on matters of public interest, constituting potential strategic litigation against public participation (SLAPP). Such abuse of criminal law—whether through harassment, exploitation, or filing suits in distant venues—distorts justice and uses legal process as a tool to intimidate public discourse, amounting to abuse of rights.

Soisong added that the Constitutional Court's 2569 ruling in the case filed by 92 senators against him and Phumidham Thammavikrom found no wrongdoing but established important standards: the constitution demands strict ministerial ethics because ministers wield broad state power requiring scrutiny of both private conduct and official duties. Ministers must demonstrate evident integrity—acting straightforwardly, honestly, and without deception—and must not behave deficiently or distort matters for personal or factional benefit. Public scrutiny of how state power is acquired serves the broader social interest.

"Critically, the state must protect whistleblowers exposing corruption," Soisong stated. "Disclosure serves a constitutional obligation. Oversight agencies like the Election Commission and DSI must treat reports as vital leads, not grounds for charging reporters. The state must also protect witnesses from harassment or strategic prosecution."

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Police

Authorities Seize B2.1bn in Krabi Land in Nominee Scam

Authorities are moving to reclaim 126 rai of land valued at B2.1 billion in Krabi after exposing a foreign nominee scheme allegedly operated by a British national controlling properties on Koh Por in Koh Lanta district.

Authorities Seize B2.1bn in Krabi Land in Nominee Scam
26 Jul The Phuket News

PHUKET: Authorities have launched legal action to reclaim more than 126 rai of land worth an estimated B2.1 billion after uncovering an alleged foreign nominee network centred on a British national accused of illegally controlling property on Koh Por in Koh Lanta district, Krabi.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Police

Chinese Tourist Fights Rape Allegations and Escalating Demands

A 54-year-old Chinese tourist says he paid 70,000 baht to settle a rape allegation in Bangkok, but was stopped at the airport when the same woman filed a second complaint demanding an additional 150,000 baht, preventing his departure from T

Chinese Tourist Fights Rape Allegations and Escalating Demands
26 Jul Khaosod

BANGKOK — 25 July 2026, A 54-year-old Chinese tourist has sought media attention for justice after allegedly being stopped from leaving Thailand over an additional complaint filed by a Thai woman who had previously accused him of rape and allegedly demanded a total of 220,000 baht.

At 18:00, the man, identified by the pseudonym Ma, arrived at Thong Lor Police Station with a Chinese interpreter and his lawyer, Sitthichok Pao-in Arunritthawin, to speak to the media.

Ma said he travelled to Thailand alone on 5 July. On the night of 18 July, he visited an entertainment venue in the RCA area, where he met a 36-year-old Thai woman. They drank together before moving to another venue in the same area.

Ma alleged that the woman encouraged him to drink alcohol, eat and try laughing gas, which he said he had never used before. He claimed that throughout the evening, both at the venues and later at the hotel, the woman repeatedly used her phone to take photos, record videos and make audio recordings. At the time, he said, he did not suspect anything and thought she was simply recording for fun.

After inhaling the laughing gas, Ma said he became severely dizzy, which felt different from ordinary alcohol intoxication. He felt weak and could barely walk, so he went to the bathroom and sat there for a while. The woman later came to find him and took him out of the bathroom.

He said she then called a taxi and took him back to his hotel. After arriving at his room, Ma said he took a shower before the woman initiated sexual intercourse. He claimed she continued taking photos, recording videos and making audio recordings during their time in the room before he eventually fell asleep due to exhaustion from drinking alcohol and inhaling laughing gas.

The following morning, Ma said he woke to find police officers at his hotel room and later learned that the woman had filed a rape complaint against him.

According to Ma, the two sides subsequently entered negotiations. He claimed the woman showed him the videos, photos and audio recordings she had made and allegedly threatened to pursue legal action unless he paid compensation.

Fearing the consequences, Ma said he agreed to pay 70,000 baht and that the matter was recorded in a daily police report at Thong Lor Police Station. He said he understood that the dispute had been settled.

However, on 25 July, the day he was due to return to China, Ma said he was stopped at Suvarnabhumi Airport by immigration officials after they found that an additional complaint had been filed at Thong Lor Police Station. He was reportedly placed on a watchlist preventing him from leaving Thailand.

Ma claimed the same woman had filed another complaint, alleging that she contracted an infection through sexual intercourse with him and demanding an additional 150,000 baht in compensation. This brought the total amount allegedly demanded to 220,000 baht, including the 70,000 baht he had already paid.

Unable to return to China, Ma decided to approach the media.

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Police

South African Tourist Arrested With Ammunition at Phuket Airport

A 27-year-old South African tourist was arrested at Phuket Airport after security detected six bullets and a magazine in his luggage during X-ray screening of departing passengers.

South African Tourist Arrested With Ammunition at Phuket Airport
26 Jul Khaosod

PHUKET — A 27-year-old South African tourist was arrested at Phuket International Airport after six bullets and a magazine were allegedly found in his luggage.

At 22:00 on 25 July 2026, Sakhu police were notified by Phuket International Airport officials that ammunition had been detected in the luggage of a foreign tourist at the X-ray screening area for departing passengers in the international terminal.

Police officers were dispatched to the airport after informing Sakhu Police Station chief Pol Col Salan Santisasakul.

Officers found airport staff had detained a man identified as Morne Dannhauser, 27, a South African national.

A search allegedly found six rounds of ammunition of an unspecified calibre and one magazine in his luggage.

Police took the suspect and the seized items to Sakhu Police Station, where he was informed of his rights and the charges against him. The South African Embassy was also notified.

Authorities will proceed with legal action in accordance with Thai law.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Strengthens World Heritage Role at UNESCO Forum

Thailand's delegation met UNESCO officials at the World Heritage Committee session in Busan to discuss conservation efforts and advance the country's heritage preservation role internationally. The talks highlighted recent inscriptions and

Thailand Strengthens World Heritage Role at UNESCO Forum
26 Jul Khaosod

On July 26, 2026, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchat Chomklin, heading Thailand's delegation to the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee, held talks with Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, at the BEXCO conference center in Busan, South Korea. The delegation included senior officials from the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry.

Chomklin stated that the government prioritizes conservation of natural resources and cultural heritage while elevating Thailand's role on the international stage. He noted that the ministry is managing world heritage sites according to international standards while balancing conservation, development, and local community well-being.

The discussions covered conservation and management of world heritage sites, and strengthened ties between Thailand and the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Chomklin thanked the Centre and its advisory organizations for supporting Thailand in academic, technological, and cooperative matters, particularly following the inscription of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahaviharn in Nakhon Si Thammarat as a world heritage site.

Chomklin also mentioned Thailand's upcoming proposal to inscribe "Chiang Mai: Capital of Lanna" as a world heritage site next year, and reported progress on the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai forest complex site. The World Heritage Centre Director commended Thailand's long commitment and understanding of the process, requesting Thailand share its experience with other nations seeking inscription.

The meeting reflected Thailand's active role in advancing world heritage conservation internationally and strengthened the partnership between Thailand and the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

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National

Hudson Backs Young Thai Players, Says Age Won't Decide Selection

Thailand's national football team crushed Laos 5-0 in the AFF Cup opener, with coach Anthony Hudson emphasizing that player selection will be based on potential and readiness rather than age.

Hudson Backs Young Thai Players, Says Age Won't Decide Selection
26 Jul Khaosod

Anthony Hudson, head coach of Thailand's national football team, spoke following Thailand's opening AFF Cup Group B preliminary match. Thailand defeated Laos 5-0, with goals from Kondogbia Yamyok (two), Theerasak Phayapimay, Yodsak Borappha, and Saracha Yooyean.

"I'm satisfied with today's match because we started this tournament with a victory, and the team has many new players," Hudson said. "Another positive is that nobody was injured and everyone played according to the tactics we set out. I want to thank the fans who traveled to support us at the stadium. I was deeply impressed by their effort and cheering."

Hudson added that the team will return to Thailand immediately to recover and prepare for the next match. "We need to focus match by match and always give our best. Saracha's condition needs another check, but initially it doesn't look serious—likely just a minor impact."

"I personally acknowledged my concerns about players' fitness before the tournament began, but I believe everyone will be increasingly ready in the coming days. I'm impressed with the young players from U23, just as I am with the experienced players on this squad. I confirm that my player selection is not determined by age, but rather by potential and readiness," Hudson stated.

Player of the match Theerasak Phayapimay commented on young goalkeeper Chavalit Saeleao: "Saf has good ability and needs to keep developing. I want to encourage him."

Thailand's next match is AFF Cup Group B's second preliminary round against Malaysia (ranked 136th globally) at Rajamangala Stadium on August 1, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are available online, and the match will be broadcast live on TrueVisions Now.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Woman Discovers Fraudulent Medical Claims Under Her Name

A woman discovered two fraudulent medical treatment records from a Pathum Thani hospital registered under her name in the Mhor Prom app, despite never visiting. The records included incorrect personal details and raised serious concerns abo

Woman Discovers Fraudulent Medical Claims Under Her Name
26 Jul Khaosod

A Facebook user posted in the consumer advocacy group 'We Are Consumers' that after checking her vaccination history in the Mhor Prom app, she was shocked to discover two medical treatment records from a Pathum Thani hospital in January–February, despite never visiting that hospital. She had only received a stool check from a health volunteer once and never saw a doctor, took medication, or received treatment there.

However, the system showed two instances of healthcare benefit usage. The patient records listed her height as 164 cm when her actual height is 158 cm, which has remained consistent throughout her life. She questioned who used her healthcare benefits, whose data was recorded in the system, and who received any medication the hospital may have dispensed. She previously contacted the Comptroller General's Department but was told to gather evidence herself, leaving the matter unresolved.

She appealed to others in the group to share similar experiences and advise on next steps, emphasizing that this is not merely a financial issue but a matter of healthcare rights and personal data protection that warrants urgent investigation into who used her benefits in her name.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Port FC Signs Jude Bellingham to Four-Year Deal

Port FC has signed 22-year-old striker Jude Bellingham on a four-year deal, with the Thai-English player set to join the squad for the PIALA PRESIDEN 2026 tournament in Indonesia before competing in the AFC Champions League Elite.

Port FC Signs Jude Bellingham to Four-Year Deal
26 Jul Khaosod

Port FC is preparing its roster for the 2026/27 season across five competitions, and has signed Thai-English striker Jude Bellingham. The 22-year-old will travel to Thailand before joining the squad in Indonesia for the ongoing PIALA PRESIDEN 2026 tournament.

Bellingham's contract with Grimsby Town, an English League Two side, expires after the 2025/26 season. Despite interest from European clubs and several Thai League teams, he chose Port FC's four-year contract, viewing it as the best option given the chance to play in elite competitions like the AFC Champions League Elite while remaining in Thailand to prepare for his national team commitments in the Asian Cup 2027 finals in Saudi Arabia in January 2027.

Bellingham began his career as a youth player for Swindon Town before impressing Chelsea, which brought him into their academy at age 12 in 2015. At 18, he made his senior debut under Thomas Tuchel in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals, helping Chelsea beat Brentford 2-0 in 2021. He then moved to Tottenham Hotspur in 2023 but was unable to break into the first team, leading to a move abroad with Córdoba in Spain's Segunda División during 2024/25, followed by a return to English football with Grimsby Town in 2025/26, where he has played 29 matches across all competitions.

On the international stage, Bellingham was previously a prospect for England, having represented the Three Lions at youth levels under-15, under-16, under-18, and under-19. He has now officially chosen to play for Thailand's senior national team, his mother's birthplace, following coordination by FAT President Nualpan Lamsam, former Port FC chairman, and will become a key player under coach Ange Postecoglou.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

Creator's Sister Attacked in Road Rage Incident with Knife

A content creator's sister and brother were attacked with a knife and wooden object by a road rage driver in Phitsanulok after he cut them off and rammed their car three times near Naresuan University.

Creator's Sister Attacked in Road Rage Incident with Knife
26 Jul Khaosod

Content creator Judy Jarukit shared a disturbing incident involving her siblings on July 25, revealing that her sister and brother were driving in Phitsanulok to buy items for Judy before heading to Bangkok the following day. A gold Mitsubishi driven by a lone man cut off their vehicle, then reversed and hit their car three times, causing the front to cave in. The driver then emerged wielding a knife and wooden object, threatening to stab Judy's siblings and declaring that if he had a gun, he would use it. Judy believes the driver may have mistaken her sibling for cutting him off first.

The incident occurred on a bridge near Naresuan University on a main road. Judy expressed deep anger and helplessness at not being able to help her sister, who called her in tears and terrified. "Why are people so cruel these days?" Judy wrote, lamenting her inability to be present during the crisis and expressing frustration about feeling powerless to help her family.

Police arrived quickly at the scene. The post garnered supportive comments from entertainment industry friends and fans, with messages encouraging the family to stay safe.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Police

Police Intercept Drug Pickup Truck, Nab 8 Million Methamphetamine Pills

Police stopped a pickup truck carrying 8 million methamphetamine pills worth 40 million baht on Pholyothin Road in Lopburi after shooting out its tires; the two suspects escaped into the forest.

Police Intercept Drug Pickup Truck, Nab 8 Million Methamphetamine Pills
26 Jul Khaosod

Police intercepted a pickup truck carrying 8 million methamphetamine pills on July 26, 2025, after residents reported multiple gunshots near a traffic light intersection on Pholyothin Road in Muang Lopburi District. Over 20 armed metropolitan police officers were pursuing a suspected drug trafficking operation when they spotted a bronze Toyota Tiger pickup truck and attempted to intercept it. When the suspects tried to escape, officers shot out all four tires to stop the vehicle.

Searching the truck, police found 40 fertilizer sacks containing approximately 8 million methamphetamine pills hidden inside, worth over 40 million baht. The two suspects refused to surrender and fled into the forest on foot, evading police searches despite intensive efforts to locate them. Police believe the large drug shipment was being transported from northern Thailand through Lopburi Province toward Saraburi Province during the Buddhist Lent holiday break, with plans to eventually reach neighboring countries.

When the suspects realized they were being pursued, they accelerated to escape and attempted to break through the police cordon toward Phraputthabat District. Officers were forced to use firearms to disable the vehicle. After the truck stopped, both suspects fled into nearby forest using darkness to evade capture despite police cordoning and searching the area.

Detailed examination of the seized vehicle confirmed 40 sacks of fertilizer containing approximately 8 million methamphetamine pills valued at over 40 million baht. Police believe this batch was being stored in the central region before being forwarded to neighboring countries, where its street value would increase many times over. Police are still withholding details as they expand the investigation into the trafficking network and are examining the truck's ownership to question the registered owner about possible involvement. The vehicle and all methamphetamine seized have been documented at Muang Lopburi Police Station and submitted for fingerprint analysis and forensic examination to identify other network members for prosecution.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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