In a rather theatrical turn of events, Thailand’s People’s Party has thrown down the gauntlet to challenge the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, calling for an inquiry into the murky world of international study programs. These programs have allegedly become a hotbed for Chinese nationals securing student visas under false pretenses, only to engage in illegal work within Thailand’s inviting borders. The plot thickens with Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, the dashing deputy leader of the People’s Party, taking center stage. With a dramatic flair worthy of a courtroom drama, he alludes to the notorious collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building on March 28 as a case in point. This incident served as a glaring beacon, shining light on the nefarious workings of the zero-dollar business model, which has weaved its way into various sectors, casting a shadow over Thailand. Picture this: a model championed by non-native operators,…
Posts published in “Thailand”
Last night, April 30, at precisely 10:16 PM, the ordinarily serene region of Chaiyaphum province was startled awake by a harrowing incident. A hospital director, evidently oblivious to the dangers of mixing alcohol and driving, plowed his vehicle into two unsuspecting television photographers, causing severe injuries. The unfortunate event transpired as the pair were on a late-night quest for sustenance, a routine so commonplace it scarcely warranted a second thought—until tragedy struck. The chilling news reached Police Lieutenant Kanti Piansoongnern, the diligent Deputy Inspector at Mueang Chaiyaphum Police Station, who promptly sprung into action. Accompanied by a medical squad from Chaiyaphum Hospital and the swift-footed members of the Sawang Khunatham Chaiyaphum Rescue Unit, they arrived to find a scene of unexpected chaos. A white Toyota lay splayed on the pavement, having bulldozed its way into a tranquil restaurant, leaving its innards scattered across the floor like an overturned anthill. Within…
In a vibrant leap toward global culinary prominence, Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Phichai Naripthaphan, has unveiled a splendid enhancement to the Thai SELECT programme with the introduction of a striking Orchid Star symbol. Introduced in 1998, this initiative has long been the torchbearer for Thai cuisine, lighting up taste buds and ensuring the authenticity of flavors in an ever-eager, food-savvy world. Today, as you hop around the globe, you’ll stumble upon over 18,852 Thai restaurants, with 1,779 wearing the prestigious Thai SELECT badge like a badge of culinary honor. Even within Thailand’s borders, 496 dining establishments have earned this coveted recognition. The program also pulses life into the grocery aisles, with 965 Thai ready-to-eat products from 109 companies embracing certifications that reflect a robust international reputation. Minister Phichai emphasized to anyone with an ear for good taste that for over two decades, Thai SELECT has been akin to a flavor passport…
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports in Thailand has finally decided to tackle the growing chorus of grievances from foreign tourists, who have been loudly voicing their dismay over dual pricing, an issue that has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Nobody wants to feel like a walking wallet, right? On April 26, Sorawong Thienthong, the proactive minister, convened a spirited meeting with key tourism executives and representatives across various government bodies to roll up their sleeves and address these pressing matters head-on. The wake-up call came via a provocative social media post titled “Where Have Foreign Tourists Gone?”—a title evocative enough to rival the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle! Released on April 24, the post translated the heartfelt concerns of foreign tourists and expatriates in an exposé that first appeared in the Bangkok Post. The piece painted a rather alarming picture, depicting worries over personal safety, pesky…
In a thrilling operation reminiscent of a gutsy police drama, the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) struck a massive blow against drug smuggling along the bustling Thai-Myanmar border. As of yesterday, April 30, the KNLA deftly intercepted and seized a staggering six million methamphetamine pills bound for Thailand. The scene unfolded in the picturesque yet perilous province of Hpa-An, Karen State, Myanmar, almost a whisper away from the tranquil Mae Sariang district in Thailand’s Mae Hong Son. The dramatic bust saw two suspects nabbed in a sting that could rival any Hollywood blockbuster. A source from the KNLA spilt the beans that this high-stakes game commenced on April 27. It was like a nail-biting play in a thriller novel when the vigilant eyes of the 7th Brigade of the Karen National Union (KNU) caught sight of a shady motorboat slicing through the upper Salween River, its belly brimming with forbidden…
In the heart of central Phuket’s bustling life, two worker camps were thrown into the spotlight, transforming into the epicenter of a dramatic raid that resulted in the arrest of two Myanmar nationals and a Thai local. The scene unfolded on the evening of April 29, with the Thalang District Office meticulously orchestrating the operation, as detailed in an eye-opening report. As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows, a formidable task force moved in quietly yet decisively. This was no solitary endeavor; it was a robust coalition involving approximately 150 individuals – including not only workers but also a mix of Thalang Police, local administrative officers, immigration officials, healthcare personnel, employment authorities, and the ever-vigilant Volunteer Defense Corps, affectionately known as OrSor. At the helm steering this meticulous undertaking were Thalang District Chief Siwat Rawangkun and his deputy, Wisut Romin. Picture this: the operation started with random health…
In a gripping turn of events, the immigration officers of Chiang Mai took decisive action yesterday, April 30, by apprehending a Chinese national who found himself on the wrong side of the law. Accused of overstaying his tourist visa, this individual was cornered on Thipanet Road, nestled within the vibrant hub of the Mueang district of Chiang Mai province. The successful operation was not a stroke of luck but a strategic and well-coordinated endeavor between the seasoned minds of the Chiang Mai Provincial Immigration Bureau and the diligent teams of Immigration Division 5. As the long arm of the law caught up with him, the alleged offender was charged with overstaying his welcome in the Kingdom of Thailand. In accordance with legal formalities, the authorities ensured he was well-informed of his rights and the charges he faced, before escorting him to the bustling confines of the Chiang Mai City Police…
In the heart of Yala province, where the serene landscape often belies the tension that underlies, a violent reminder of unrest emerged last night. At precisely 8:15 pm on April 30, a chilling incident unfolded as a brave police officer came under a hail of gunfire while diligently setting up a checkpoint in the bustling Mueang district. The air was brisk, and the night was creeping in with its usual cloak of mystery when suddenly, chaos erupted near the operational base in Baan Chanan, nestled in Phorn subdistrict. A border patrol officer, a brave soul named Watcharin Noppapuang, was tragically caught in the crossfire. Watcharin, a 29-year-old officer committed to the safety of his community, sustained a painful gunshot wound to his right arm. In the pandemonium that ensued, the gallant officers alongside him did not falter. They promptly rushed the wounded Watcharin to Yala Central Hospital, where immediate care…
April 30th in Pathum Thani province became the final act for the remarkable escapades of Koraphak, affectionately nicknamed Oak, and rather infamously dubbed the “ninja thief.” This daring 32-year-old was apprehended by the police, ending his thrilling two-month-long deceitful theatrics that had him slipping through the fingers of unsuspecting victims. Armed with a warrant from the Taling Chan Criminal Court dated April 29, Oak found himself on the wrong side of the law for fraud—a charge he finally had no choice but to admit to after being cornered beneath his bed, armed with a wooden board as his last-ditch cloak of invisibility. Oak’s escapade unfolded like a suspenseful drama, one where he played the rogue hero, pilfering his way through various districts to feed his unquenchable online gambling zeal and, curiously enough, to ensure his cats never went hungry. Yet, with a flair reminiscent of a modern-day Robin Hood minus…
In the bustling province of Prachin Buri, known for its thriving industrial landscape, the whispers of controversy spiraled into a public tempest as a notable political appointment came under scrutiny. At the heart of this vibrant land, where the renowned 304 Industrial Park stands as testament to foregin investment allure, a political narrative unfolded that has captured widespread attention. The recent turbulence swept in when the governor of Prachin Buri decided to retract his decision to appoint a Chinese adviser. The move came after receiving strong backlash, including unexpected criticism from Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. This episode found its roots in a seemingly strategic decision made to prepare Prachin Buri for inclusion in the illustrious Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) investment zone. Presently, this economic juggernaut encompasses the provinces of Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, and Rayong, and Prachin Buri’s initiation into this league is much coveted. Weerapun Dee-on, the governor who found…