Mitch Connor

Mitch is a Bangkok resident, having relocated from Southern California, via Florida in 2022. He studied journalism before dropping out of college to teach English in South America. After returning to the US, he spent 4 years working for various online publishers before moving to Thailand.
  • Crime NewsThai drug crime: Over 1000 suspects nabbed in major Thai southern provinces

    Thai drug crime: Over 1000 suspects nabbed in major Thai southern provinces

    In a sweeping operation against Thai drug crime, spanning seven southern provinces, over 1,000 suspects have been put behind bars. The large-scale sting, dubbed “Sayob Andaman (Defeating Andaman) 7/66,” was conducted by the team of Provincial Police Division 8. The detailed brief about the Thai drug crime operation was presented at a press conference in Phuket yesterday by the special…

  • Thailand NewsCulture ministry plans to boost Thai tourism through Korean TV series popularity

    Culture ministry plans to boost Thai tourism through Korean TV series popularity

    The Thai Culture Ministry voiced its intentions of capitalising on the increased popularity of Thai locations, brought on by their appearance in the latest Korean television series, King the Land. Recognising this upswing in interest, the ministry plans to attract more Korean tourists and fans of the drama to these specific sites, boosting Thai tourism. Culture Minister Itthiphol Kunplome attributed…

  • World NewsHow Major League Baseball is looking to expand into the Asian market

    How Major League Baseball is looking to expand into the Asian market

    Football is the number one sport in America and there is little chance of that changing anytime soon, so for the two other mainstream sports, the best way to expand their brand and reach is to look to overseas markets. It’s why basketball is increasingly looking to market itself in South America and Europe and it’s why baseball is going…

  • Politics NewsBangkok governor’s son stirs controversy with inflammatory Instagram post

    Bangkok governor’s son stirs controversy with inflammatory Instagram post

    The 23 year old son of Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt found himself in the grip of a spiralling digital controversy. He recently composed and posted an inflammatory message targeted at the Move Forward Party (MFP) and its supporters, drawing criticism from netizens. The contentious Instagram post, which has been deleted, included derogatory remarks about the party’s followers and its supposed…

  • Thailand NewsChiang Mai elephant sanctuary faces closure amid family inheritance dispute

    Chiang Mai elephant sanctuary faces closure amid family inheritance dispute

    The renowned family-managed elephant sanctuary, Mae Sa Elephant Camp in Chiang Mai, might be confronted with closure amidst an ongoing legal battle over inheritance between the late owner’s eldest child and his spouse (her stepmother). The camp, nestled in the Mae Rim district of this northern province, has been grappling with monetary issues that are impacting its operations, according to…

  • Phuket NewsPatong Police seize illegal fireworks, amplify beach safety measures

    Patong Police seize illegal fireworks, amplify beach safety measures

    Patong Police sprang into action on Patong Beach, Phuket, at around 11.30pm on July 15. Patrolling officers, under the leadership of Thongplew Kruehom near the bustling Bangla Road, apprehended a young man. The charge was an unauthorised sale of fireworks to the public along the beach, as confirmed by Patong Police. Unwilling to reveal the identity of the individual, the…

  • Thailand NewsThai organisations challenge Senate’s prime ministerial authority

    Thai organisations challenge Senate’s prime ministerial authority

    Amidst ongoing political turmoil in Thailand, a collective of forty organisations including pro-democracy bodies, non-governmental agencies, and civil society factions made a united call. The appeal, presented to the media yesterday, demanded governmental respect for the General Election held on May 14. It emphasised recognition of the Move Forward Party due to its public support and backed its leader for…

  • Thailand NewsThai ONCB thwarts 35 drug smuggling attempts to Australia

    Thai ONCB thwarts 35 drug smuggling attempts to Australia

    News reports today confirm that 35 drug smuggling operations into Australia have been successfully thwarted by the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) this year. Consequently, substantial quantities of methamphetamine and heroin, weighing 973.4 kilograms and 70.7 kilograms respectively, destined for Australia, were intercepted at various airports and seaports. The secretary-general of the ONCB, Wichai Chaimongkol, detailed that two…

  • Thailand NewsThai railway eviction saga: Low-income residents face displacement for high-speed project

    Thai railway eviction saga: Low-income residents face displacement for high-speed project

    The ongoing tale of the imminent relocation of the Bun Romsai community, along with over 100 other residents residing alongside a railway track in Phaya Thai district, Thailand, continues to unfold. Having called this area home for over two decades, community leader Chao Kerdaree candidly shares insights into the upcoming eviction, which has been instigated by the State Railway of…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket to face power cuts for PEA Thalang’s system enhancements

    Phuket to face power cuts for PEA Thalang’s system enhancements

    The Thalang division of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA Thalang) issued a statement declaring two separate power interruptions planned for tomorrow. The blackouts are reported to impact both residences and businesses in the areas of Bang Tao and Pa Khlok, Phuket. The Bang Tao power cut, specifically in the region of Cherng Talay, is scheduled from 9am through to 4.30pm.…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket kickstarts Tsunami Walk & Run aiming to boost evacuation awareness

    Phuket kickstarts Tsunami Walk & Run aiming to boost evacuation awareness

    Over 900 people yesterday took part in the Tsunami Walk & Run event in Mai Khao, Phuket. The initiative was undertaken to increase consciousness about tsunami evacuation routes. Boontham Lertsukekasem, the Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, was on the ground to inaugurate the Walk & Run for Tsunami Learning 2023 event formally, kicking off proceedings at…

  • Thailand NewsAndaman provinces appeal to continue Phang-nga Airport study amid fears of overcrowding

    Andaman provinces appeal to continue Phang-nga Airport study amid fears of overcrowding

    The Joint Public and Private Sector Consultative Committee (JPPSCC) spanning the Andaman provinces appealed to Airports of Thailand (AoT) to ensure the continuation of its feasibility study on the proposed Phang-nga Airport. Previously, a discussion between the JPPSCC across the provinces of Krabi, Trang, Phang-nga, Phuket, Ranong, Satun, and Phuket Airport took place concerning the same issue. As a result…

  • Phuket NewsNew Russian consulate opens in Phuket deepening Thailand-Russia ties

    New Russian consulate opens in Phuket deepening Thailand-Russia ties

    Sergey Lavrov, the Foreign Affairs Minister of Russia, unveiled the new Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Phuket at Royal Phuket Marina. The high-profile event, which took place yesterday, marked a significant development in the evolving diplomatic bonds between Thailand and Russia. Lavrov arrived at Royal Phuket Marina at 4pm where Phuket Vice Governor Amnuay Pinsuwan, flanked by a…

  • Thailand NewsSwinging into trouble: Golfer faces prosecution for ‘fore’-bidden activity in Thai national park (video)

    Swinging into trouble: Golfer faces prosecution for ‘fore’-bidden activity in Thai national park (video)

    In a bid to uphold the sanctity of national parks, Thai authorities at Khao Yai National Park are preparing to prosecute a golfer who dared to engage in sporting activity such as illegal golfing within the protected vicinity of Sai Sorn Reservoir. This reservoir, nestled within the heart of the national park, is not only home to a diverse array…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket water supply tests could leave residents dry for days

    Phuket water supply tests could leave residents dry for days

    In a recent announcement, the Phuket arm of the Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) outlined water supply test plans to execute a series of step tests over the upcoming three days. The measures are aimed to confirm the water pressure within the main supply pipes – a move that will impact several residences and businesses throughout different regions in Phuket. Upon…

  • Crime NewsThai women cautioned over marriage scams with Chinese nationals

    Thai women cautioned over marriage scams with Chinese nationals

    Police cautioned Thai women considering marriage to Chinese nationals against possible legal infringements in both Thailand and China. According to a report on Monday, the alert followed revelations by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD) that a case involving a Thai woman from Udon Thani, subjected to marriage scams, and three years of abuse in China, did not constitute human…

  • Thailand NewsThailand battles marine pollution with 507 tonnes of waste collected in 2020

    Thailand battles marine pollution with 507 tonnes of waste collected in 2020

    Marine pollution issues have impinged on Thailand‘s coastal regions, with increasingly alarming statistics emerging, according to updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Throughout last year, there were reports of 22 oil spill events within the Gulf of Thailand, and an astonishing 507 tonnes of various waste gathered from surrounding seas, as noted by deputy government spokeswoman, Traisulee…

  • Tourism NewsTrat’s tourism sector hopes to rebound despite ongoing struggles

    Trat’s tourism sector hopes to rebound despite ongoing struggles

    Trat, one of Thailand’s premier beach destinations, is optimistic about a boost in tourism during the latter part of this year despite a struggling hotel sector that is yet to bounce back from Covid-19 disruptions. Phatcharin Sawettarat, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Trat Office, disclosed that the province accommodated approximately one million visitors last year, just half…

  • Thailand NewsSattahip naval base officer investigated over alleged ammunition theft

    Sattahip naval base officer investigated over alleged ammunition theft

    Investigations by the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) are ongoing, following suspicions that an officer at Sattahip naval base might be guilty of stealing a significant number of cartridges. The base, located in Chon Buri in Thailand, is at the heart of a major theft case, according to naval spokesman Admiral Pokkrong Monthatphalin. This was a response to allegations on the…

  • Phuket NewsRussian foreign minister arrives in Phuket

    Russian foreign minister arrives in Phuket

    Sergey Lavrov, the acting Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, was warmly received at Phuket International Airport by a welcoming committee spearheaded by Amnuay Pinsuwan, Phuket’s Vice Governor. Lavrov’s visit is labelled by expectation as he lands on Thai soil to inaugurate the already functioning Russian consulate at Boat Lagoon in Koh Kaew, despite the absence of further details about…

  • Thailand NewsPheu Thai may replace MFP in Thai political shakeup

    Pheu Thai may replace MFP in Thai political shakeup

    A shift in the political dynamic of Thailand might be on the horizon, according to predictions by a distinguished political science academic. He believes the Pheu Thai Party could rise as the new coalition’s head if Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party (MFP), fails to secure victory in the Parliamentary selection for Thailand’s Prime Minister. Burapha University’s…

  • Thailand NewsMFP challenges military’s role in selection of Thai PM

    MFP challenges military’s role in selection of Thai PM

    The Thai political landscape is witnessing a potential upheaval with the Move Forward Party (MFP) taking legislative strides. The party fervently presented a proposal to Parliament yesterday challenging the military-appointed senators‘ right to participate in the selection of the prime minister. This bid comes as a reaction to the MFP leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, falling short of amassing sufficient support for…

  • Phuket NewsLorry driver crushed to death by 3-tonne glass sheet in Phuket

    Lorry driver crushed to death by 3-tonne glass sheet in Phuket

    In a tragic turn of events, a lorry driver was found dead due after being crushed by a 3-tonne sheet of glass and frame at the back of his own vehicle. The incident unfolded yesterday in Cherng Talay, Phuket. Lt. Col. Warawut Sensob of the Cherng Talay Police was informed of the horrific accident at 2.30pm, finding the vehicle, along with…

  • Phuket NewsSleepy driver causes pickup truck mishap in Phuket

    Sleepy driver causes pickup truck mishap in Phuket

    In the early hours of today, a mishap occurred on Pa Khlok Road, Phuket when a pickup truck steered off the path, resulting in injuries to the two men onboard. The troubling incident unfolded nearby a tranquil 7-Eleven store situated in Baan Promphan, Moo 1, Pa Khlok. Upon arrival, officers of the Thalang Police were greeted with a disconcerting sight.…

  • Thailand NewsThailand detects new coronavirus subvariant EG.5.1

    Thailand detects new coronavirus subvariant EG.5.1

    According to reports from the Department of Medical Sciences, a new and rapidly spreading Coronavirus XBB subvariant, named EG.5.1, has been identified in Thailand. Although fast-spreading, it has been observed to cause predominantly mild symptoms. Remarkable insights came to light yesterday when the Head of the Department, Dr Supakit Sirilak revealed that five individuals had been diagnosed with this subvariant…

  • Thailand NewsGerman man faces death penalty for premeditated murder

    German man faces death penalty for premeditated murder

    Royal Thai Police (RTP) have officially charged a man with premeditated murder in connection to the gruesome killing of Hans Peter Walter Mack, a 62 year old German real estate tycoon residing in Chon Buri, significantly intensifying the legal implications for the prime suspect. Deputy National Police Chief, Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, listed 52 year old German national Olaf Thorsten…

  • Thailand NewsInterpol sought over Stark Corp scandal as losses mount to 38 billion baht

    Interpol sought over Stark Corp scandal as losses mount to 38 billion baht

    Interpol is currently sought by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to issue a red notice for the pursuit of the former chairman of a company known as Stark Corp, on charges of financial misconduct. The DSI issued this plea after the chairman did not adhere to the call to report to the DSI for acknowledging charges related to Stark’s…

  • World NewsCambodian premier willing to work with Thai opposition despite criticism

    Cambodian premier willing to work with Thai opposition despite criticism

    Cambodian premier Hun Sen has taken advantage of the unsuccessful attempt by Move Forward Party (MFP) Leader Pita Limjaroenrat to secure a victory in Thailand’s prime ministerial election as an opportunity to criticise his local opposition. However, Hun steadfastly denies any interference in Thailand’s politics, expressing his openness to collaborating with Pita and the MFP should they manage to establish the…

  • Phuket NewsFlowing towards change: Phuket Old Town floods get a drain makeover worth 226 million baht (video)

    Flowing towards change: Phuket Old Town floods get a drain makeover worth 226 million baht (video)

    Addressing the longstanding issue of recurring floods in Phuket Old Town, a public hearing was held yesterday chaired by the Mayor of Phuket City, Saroj Angkanapilas. The main agenda was the unveiling of a 226 million baht drainage system construction project, aimed at shielding the Old Town from the destructive impact of frequent floods. Set within the premises of the…

  • Phuket NewsThe ‘forward’ march: Devoted MFP supporters unite in Phuket to back Pita Limjaroenrat’s PM bid

    The ‘forward’ march: Devoted MFP supporters unite in Phuket to back Pita Limjaroenrat’s PM bid

    About 30 Move Forward Party (MFP) supporters yesterday gathered at the iconic Mingmongkol Statue in Queen Sirikit Park to offer their unwavering support for MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat and the prime ministerial candidate. The event transpired following Pita’s unfortunate denial of the coveted prime ministerial position in a combined voting session involving both the House of Representatives and Senate. Despite…