In yet another dramatic police sweep along Pattaya Beach, more than 50 alleged sex workers were rounded up last night, reigniting the debate over whether such crackdowns are genuine efforts to clean up the city or merely public relations stunts. Officers descended upon the beachfront at precisely 9:06 PM on May 21, in a meticulously coordinated operation targeting the illegal trade that many feel is tarnishing Pattaya’s reputation as a tourist destination. The operation, spearheaded by Police Colonel Anek Sathongyoo, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police, was a joint effort involving over 50 officers from various branches including the Tourist Police, Immigration, local administrators, and Chon Buri’s Social Development team. This raid was the latest installment in a series of efforts to rid the beachfront of illicit activities, targeting a notorious area where women and transgender individuals allegedly conduct their business in the shadows of coconut trees, openly soliciting tourists. Concerns…
THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News
In the heart of Pattani province, under the faint glow of moonlight, the world-weary rangers of the 4215th Ranger Company faced an unexpected ordeal. It was a calm evening on May 21st, seemingly indistinguishable from any other until a faulty water pump outside their base sparked a series of unfolding drama reminiscent of a tense thriller. Rangers Pongdet Nananuksuk and Sarawut Kaewjanarit embarked on a routine inspection of the malfunctioning equipment, with a casual nod to their comrade, Pravit Liampol, who was stationed on guard duty. But what should have ended as a mundane task quickly spiraled into chaos. As Pongdet approached the pump, shots rang through the night air. To everyone’s shock and disbelief, Pravit was the shooter. With one shot piercing Pongdet’s stomach and another grazing his arm, panic ensued. The incident unfolded swiftly, as Pravit disappeared into the night, firearm in tow, leaving his shocked colleagues to…
In a stunning turn of events on May 21, a case of deception and cunning unfolded on the bustling streets of Bangkok when a 46-year-old man known as Vorathep found himself in the clutches of the law. This polished charmer, who had been masquerading as a doctor or high-flying executive, had successfully duped his victims, convincing them to invest more than 8 million baht in the process. Police Major General Witthaya Sriprasertpab, along with his capable team comprising Police Colonel Ekkasit Pansithao and Police Lieutenant Jeerattawat Kitrungruengdet, orchestrated a meticulous plan leading to Vorathep’s capture. The arrest was grounded on a warrant dispensed by the Criminal Court back in March, citing charges that encapsulated fraud and the transmission of falsehoods into a computer system that consequentially harmed others. The scene of this dramatic arrest? None other than the streets of Ramkhamhaeng Road, just in front of a condominium in Min…
In a Thai national park renowned for its breathtaking vistas and strict adherence to environmental protection, a foreign tourist’s escapade quickly went south, capturing the attention of social media audiences worldwide. The viral footage shows the overseas visitor making a hasty exit from a group of irate Thai men at the picturesque Krabi province—a scenario that unfolded due to his ill-advised decision to flout park regulations. The drama, which played out in the scenic setting of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, erupted when the tourist, as spirited as he was misguided, took a dip in the enchanting waters of Maya Bay. This would seem like a movie plot if not for the vital detail that Maya Bay was firmly closed to tourists at the time. Park rangers, ever vigilant in their duties, approached him with the intention of gently but firmly guiding him out of the water.…
Central Pattana Plc (CPN), a renowned division of the illustrious Central Group and proud custodian of a series of vibrant Central shopping centres, is taking a bold step forward in championing diversity and equality with the exciting unveiling of Thailand’s Pride Celebration 2025: Pride For All. This initiative is masterfully orchestrated by none other than Nattakit Tangpoonsinthana, CPN’s dynamic chief marketing officer, who emphatically underscores that this campaign is not just a festive nod to Pride Month, but stands as a powerful testament to human rights and a strategic ace up the sleeve for economic growth. With Thailand’s LGBTQIAN+ tourism industry projected to ruffle a whopping 67 billion baht annually, and the global rainbow tourism market predicted to swell to an astonishing US$20 billion (translating to roughly 723 billion baht) by the year 2032, it’s safe to say the importance of this endeavor is not lost on anyone. Central malls…
Taxi drivers, decked in their standard uniforms, line the bustling parking lanes at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan province, waiting with unwavering patience for the next passenger. Amidst the hum of engines and the shuffle of arriving travelers, a tension has been brewing in the shadows. It’s not from the tropical heat or the endless flow of international flights; it’s from the growing divide between traditional taxis and the rapidly ascending ride-hailing services. The Department of Land Transport has sounded a clarion call, making it undeniably clear that any attempt to block Suvarnabhumi Airport in protest against ride-hailing services will result in swift legal action. “There cannot be any blockage of airports. Any wrongdoers will face legal action,” proclaimed Chirute Visalachitra, the vigilant director-general of the department. This stern warning comes in response to a recent rally where a group of traditional taxi drivers gathered near Government House. Their grievances?…
Thailand, a nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant landscapes, is taking a decisive step towards regulating cannabis usage. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin recently announced that cannabis aficionados, both local and foreign, will soon require medical certificates to ensure that the beloved plant is used strictly for medical purposes. This move signifies a pivotal turn in Thailand’s ongoing romance with cannabis since its decriminalization nearly three years ago. As Somsak took center stage at a bustling press conference in Bangkok, he underscored the necessity for stringent enforcement by government bodies to mitigate potential complications. The eagerly anticipated regulation mandates that cannabis users present medical certificates issued by certified medical professionals. This esteemed list includes traditional Thai medicine practitioners alongside general physicians, bridging ancient practices with modern-day medical insights. The clock is ticking, as Somsak expressed his ambition for the Ministry of Public Health to roll out this…
The Equitable Education Fund (EEF) is not just stepping up; it’s springing into action with boundless energy and optimism as it gears up to bring 55,000 school dropouts back into the fold using innovative and flexible learning models by the academic year 2025. Pattanapong Sukmadan, EEF’s diligent assistant manager, shared that this trailblazing initiative is designed to make education as versatile as a Swiss army knife—accessible anywhere, anytime, with both income potential and accreditation. It’s Google’s vision of education: customized to fit individual needs and local contexts, ensuring that learning isn’t just available but resonant and relevant. With the dawn of a new term, already 1,000 students, previously lost to circumstances as varied as health hurdles, financial quandaries, family dynamics, and logistical labyrinths, have rejoined their educational journey. These determined learners are attending mobile schools and community-based learning centers, aiming to confidently conquer primary education through Matthayom 3, or Grade…
Deep within the serene yet cosmically challenging wetlands of South Thailand, a botanical marvel has emerged, forging its tale within the lush, green narratives of nature. This isn’t just any discovery—it’s a revelation, a proclamation, a veritable shout from the soft, verdant corners of Surat Thani province that mother nature still holds countless secrets. Unearthed in the heart of the flood-prone region near the Tapi River in Khian Sa district, a rare tree species now stands amid scholarly applause and cautious whispers. Named “Tharathum,” this poetic moniker, born from the Thai words for water (‘thara’) and tree (‘tham’), pays homage to its watery birthplace, symbolizing its indomitable spirit and delicate charm. Leading this botanical escapade is the intrepid Doctor Chatthida Wiya, a dedicated plant taxonomist at the Botanical Garden Organisation. Her efforts are in fine company, with partners from Chiang Mai University, Kasetsart University, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife…
In a gripping tale of environmental vigilance, the Ministry of Industry has swooped down on a nefarious operation, seizing an astonishing 118 tonnes of illegally imported electronic waste—better known as e-waste—from a company nestled within the bustling free zone of Chon Buri province. This thrilling confiscation unfolded under the watchful eye of Industry Minister Akanat Promphan, who orchestrated a meticulous inspection of six imposing containers linked to MHC Group Free Zone Co Ltd at the strategic Laem Chabang Port. Triggered by a tantalizing tip-off about clandestine e-waste imports, this story may just rival your favorite crime drama, with law enforcement taking the lead with gusto. Hidden within the steel confines of those colossal containers, authorities unearthed not just any cargo, but a staggering haul of 118 tonnes disguised as mixed metal scrap originating from the United States. Yet, in a surprising twist, what they discovered were printed circuit boards nestled…