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.
  • Transport NewsBangkok group urges MRTA to protect historic shophouses in station plan | Thaiger

    Bangkok group urges MRTA to protect historic shophouses in station plan

    A Bangkok civil group has urged the Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) to move the proposed entry point for the Phan Fa Purple Line station in a bid to protect historic shophouses located on Phra Sumen Road. Rosana Tositrakul, an ex-senator of Bangkok and president of the Rattanakosin Heritage Conservation Group (RHCG), expressed concern that the century-old shophouses could be…

  • South Thailand NewsViolent attacks in southern Thailand leave one dead, two injured | Thaiger

    Violent attacks in southern Thailand leave one dead, two injured

    Separate incidents of violent attacks occurred yesterday in Thailand’s southern provinces of Pattani and Narathiwat, resulting in one death and two injuries. Armed gunmen targeted a police operations base in Muang district, Pattani province, while a pickup truck carrying villagers was ambushed in Narathiwat province. The attack on the police base in Pattani took place at around 7am in Ban…

  • South Thailand NewsPhased withdrawal of Thai soldiers from southern border planned for 2027 | Thaiger

    Phased withdrawal of Thai soldiers from southern border planned for 2027

    A phased withdrawal of soldiers on a special security mission is planned for 2027 in the conflict-ridden southern border regions of Thailand, as reported by the 4th Region Army. The special mission involves troops deployed to counter insurgents, who will continuously reduce in number until none remain, leaving only soldiers in routine operations stationed at permanent locations. In the meantime,…

  • World NewsIllegal gambling activity leads to forced power cut in Shwe Kokko | Thaiger

    Illegal gambling activity leads to forced power cut in Shwe Kokko

    Those living in Thailand, depending on the town and province, may be well accustomed to power outages for various reasons. With older-style power grids and connections, some areas buckle under a load of increased usage or simply have failures more often due to older, failing infrastructure. But the news of power cuts in Skwe Kokko is different, and for people…

  • Thailand NewsTV tangle: MFP leader’s shareholding scandal sparks iTV’s clarification clash | Thaiger

    TV tangle: MFP leader’s shareholding scandal sparks iTV’s clarification clash

    In the midst of a Thai shareholding scandal involving Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat, iTV has released a statement to clarify inconsistencies between the official minutes from its annual shareholders’ meeting and a video taken on April 26. The central issue revolves around whether iTV is still operating in the media business, which could have implications for Pita’s…

  • Crime NewsIllegal oil transport scandal leads to excise director’s suspension in Thailand | Thaiger

    Illegal oil transport scandal leads to excise director’s suspension in Thailand

    A recent internal investigation revealed the involvement of the Excise Department’s Prevention and Suppression Bureau director in a case regarding illegal oil transportation, intercepted by the Highway Police on June 7. The unnamed director’s alleged involvement came to light when he reportedly contacted the Highway Police Department (HPD) in an attempt to secure the release of a detained driver and…

  • Environment NewsASEAN centre initiative proposed by MFP leader to tackle Chiang Mai PM2.5 | Thaiger

    ASEAN centre initiative proposed by MFP leader to tackle Chiang Mai PM2.5

    The Move Forward Party (MFP) has expressed interest in creating an ASEAN centre for combatting PM2.5 pollution in Chiang Mai. Pita Limjaroenrat, the prime ministerial candidate, elaborated on the proposal during a meeting yesterday with representatives from civil society, private industries, and businesses severely impacted by the province’s pollution crisis. Pita stressed the need for cooperation at the local, national,…

  • Crime NewsPhuket firm probed for illegal foreign business operations worth 440m baht | Thaiger

    Phuket firm probed for illegal foreign business operations worth 440m baht

    A legal accounting firm in Chalong, Phuket, faces an investigation by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for its involvement with nearly 70 foreigners illegally operating companies with an estimated total value of 440 million baht. The firm is suspected of leveraging nominee shareholders to allow foreigners to control several companies unlawfully. DSI Director-General Major Suriya Singhakamol led the raid…

  • Thailand NewsFlyin’ high with Gripen: RTAF eyes Swedish jets amidst F-35A snub | Thaiger

    Flyin’ high with Gripen: RTAF eyes Swedish jets amidst F-35A snub

    The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is considering the acquisition of three Gripen jet fighters from Sweden, following the United States’ recent refusal to sell F-35A fighter jets. The plan is to add these jets to the RTAF fleet in Wing 7, located in Surat Thani. The RTAF Gripen fighters are an integral part of the nation’s air force, with…

  • Thailand NewsAn evolving sporting landscape: The rise of digital engagement in Thailand | Thaiger

    An evolving sporting landscape: The rise of digital engagement in Thailand

    As the digital age continues to evolve globally, Thailand is no exception. The Thai landscape is experiencing a paradigm shift as various sectors embrace and capitalise on digital innovation. One such sector bearing witness to this transformative journey is sports, an industry integral to the socio-cultural fabric of Thai society. Unleashing Thailand’s Sporting Passion Thailand’s rich sporting culture spans traditional…

  • Thailand NewsASEAN membership: Roadmap endorsed for Timor-Leste’s inclusion and Thai trade | Thaiger

    ASEAN membership: Roadmap endorsed for Timor-Leste’s inclusion and Thai trade

    Yesterday, a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign affairs announced that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has recently endorsed a roadmap that outlines the steps for Timor-Leste becoming its 11th member. This ASEAN membership move is expected to benefit Thailand economically by expanding trade and investment opportunities between the two nations. Timor-Leste initially submitted its request for…

  • Politics NewsThai election concerns rise due to prolonged ballot box transport in Buri Ram | Thaiger

    Thai election concerns rise due to prolonged ballot box transport in Buri Ram

    Concerns have been raised over the prolonged transportation time of ballot boxes in Buri Ram, following the recent general Thai election. A group of ten complainants from Non Suwan and Nong Ki districts filed a request with the Election Commission’s Buri Ram office, questioning why it took four and a half hours to transport the ballot boxes across a 20-kilometre…

  • Thailand NewsMyanmar conflict surge: Over 3,300 refugees seek shelter in Thailand | Thaiger

    Myanmar conflict surge: Over 3,300 refugees seek shelter in Thailand

    The conflict in Myanmar‘s Kayah State has led to a new surge of refugees seeking shelter in Thailand. Provincial Governor Chettha Mosikkharat confirmed that Thai authorities have rescued 3,342 refugees who fled the border war. The fighting in Kayah State involves the Karenni Army (KA), backed by the People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) and the Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF), and…

  • Thailand NewsThailand embraces nuclear fusion tech with Tokamak I milestone | Thaiger

    Thailand embraces nuclear fusion tech with Tokamak I milestone

    Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha expressed satisfaction with the progress of the country’s Tokamak I (TT-1) nuclear fusion energy technology, stating its significance in achieving sustainable energy goals. The 69 year old prime minister’s comments came during a presentation on the development of nuclear fusion energy in Thailand, given by Anek Laothamatas, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI),…

  • Phuket NewsMotorcyclist injured in accident near notorious Phuket black spot | Thaiger

    Motorcyclist injured in accident near notorious Phuket black spot

    A motorcyclist is recovering at Thalang Hospital after a crash with a pickup truck outside Tha Ruea Shrine, Phuket earlier today. The woman, 28 year old Soolfa Taemtophol from Kamala, sustained a facial cut and several abrasions on her body. Following initial reports, care providers and local law enforcement responded just before 11am, finding the motorcyclist injured on Thepkrasattri Road…

  • Thailand NewsThai elephant’s fate hangs on flight fitness decision | Thaiger

    Thai elephant’s fate hangs on flight fitness decision

    The fate of an ailing Thai elephant residing in Sri Lanka will be determined on June 28, as the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment decides if the animal is fit enough to endure a six-hour flight to Chiang Mai. Minister Varawut Silpa-archa explained that a Thai caretaker team, consisting of veterinarians and two mahouts, has been preparing the elephant…

  • Thailand NewsThai coconut milk industry battles PETA’s monkey abuse claims | Thaiger

    Thai coconut milk industry battles PETA’s monkey abuse claims

    Thai coconut milk producers are calling on the government to swiftly hire a lobbyist to counteract allegations made by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) regarding the treatment of monkeys by local farmers. PETA recently reiterated its claims on Twitter, stating that monkeys are kidnapped as babies and later forced to pick coconuts in the Thai coconut industry.…

  • Bangkok NewsBangkok governor self-rates 5/10, admits undelivered policies in first year | Thaiger

    Bangkok governor self-rates 5/10, admits undelivered policies in first year

    Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has rated his performance as five out of 10 after completing his first year in office. Despite facing criticism for his lack of achievements, Chadchart, who won the election by a landslide on May 22 last year, said it was a matter of opinion. During an announcement at City Hall yesterday, Chadchart admitted that he had…

  • World NewsAndrew Tate’s first serious interview since his release racks up 5 million views in just 24 hours | Thaiger

    Andrew Tate’s first serious interview since his release racks up 5 million views in just 24 hours

    Internet personality Andrew Tate, known for his controversial statements and actions, has blown up YouTube with his first ‘proper’ interview since being released on house arrest alongside his brother, Tristan. And who better to conduct the interview, none other than the rising media superstar, Patrick Bet-David. Patrick and his Valuetainment media company were the first to interview Tate after being…

  • Thailand NewsReeling it in: Fisheries Dept hooks attention with temporary fishing ban in Gulf of Thailand’s Tua Kor area | Thaiger

    Reeling it in: Fisheries Dept hooks attention with temporary fishing ban in Gulf of Thailand’s Tua Kor area

    The Fisheries Department announced there will be a temporary fishing ban implemented in the Tua Kor area of the Gulf of Thailand. The decision was made as a direct result of the substantial rise in the amount of fish caught for commercial purposes in the area. The amount of fish that was caught each day in 2022 averaged out to…

  • Crime NewsThai police probe truck sticker bribery scandal: 46 types identified | Thaiger

    Thai police probe truck sticker bribery scandal: 46 types identified

    There’s been a new development in Thailand’s truck sticker bribery scandal. The inspector-general of the Royal Thai Police (RTP) Office will likely take 15 days to determine who will be subjected to a disciplinary investigation in connection with the scandal. Pol. Gen. Visanu Prasartthong-osoth announced that an inquiry is being conducted by his office, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Ditsapoj…

  • Phuket NewsTragic twist in paradise: Belarusian man found ‘hanging’ from a tree near Thai dam | Thaiger

    Tragic twist in paradise: Belarusian man found ‘hanging’ from a tree near Thai dam

    A 26 year old Belarusian man was found dead hanging from a tree near a dam in Karon, West Thailand. The man, identified as Alexander Zapronenko, had been staying with a friend in a nearby rented accommodation at Moo1, Patak Soi 20. His body was discovered after he had been missing for two days when a local stray dog appeared…

  • Thailand NewsSenate proposes Section 112 debate amid Thai tensions | Thaiger

    Senate proposes Section 112 debate amid Thai tensions

    In an effort to seek a political compromise, the Senate has put forth a proposition for a deliberation on Section 112 of the Criminal Code, commonly referred to as the lese majeste law. This move comes in response to a petition submitted by a pro-royalist group advocating for the preservation of the existing law. However, apprehensions have arisen within the…

  • Thailand NewsThai police chief revamps recruitment after promotion scandal | Thaiger

    Thai police chief revamps recruitment after promotion scandal

    In response to concerns over the rapid promotion of a young female police officer and the involvement of high-profile individuals and celebrities in the commissioned officer application process, Thailand’s national police chief, General Damrongsak Kittiprapas, ordered amendments to the recruitment procedure. National police spokesperson Lieutenant General Archayon Kraithong stated that General Damrongsak has instructed Lieutenant General Kittirat Phanphet to establish…

  • Transport NewsGreen Line extensions: Operator anticipates 20 billion baht debt repayment | Thaiger

    Green Line extensions: Operator anticipates 20 billion baht debt repayment

    Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc (BTSC) Chairman Keeree Kanjanapas expressed optimism regarding the repayment of overdue debts by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) for the operation and maintenance of the Green Line extensions. Following a meeting with Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt yesterday, Keeree said the discussions were encouraging, and he anticipates a 20 billion baht repayment from the BMA. Keeree…

  • South Thailand NewsThailand investigates activists seeking Muslim Patani State referendum | Thaiger

    Thailand investigates activists seeking Muslim Patani State referendum

    Security agencies in Thailand are investigating a group of activists advocating for a public referendum on the creation of an independent Muslim “Patani State” in the country’s southern region. The National Security Council (NSC) stated that the Internal Security Operation Command (Isoc) Region 4 Forward Office and Provincial Police Region 9 are examining the group’s activities and monitoring its social…

  • Thailand NewsStepping for a cause: Brit expat’s 1,050km stroll from Pattaya to Phuket raises 1 million baht for abused children | Thaiger

    Stepping for a cause: Brit expat’s 1,050km stroll from Pattaya to Phuket raises 1 million baht for abused children

    British expat James Lee Valentine demonstrated the power of determination and charity by completing a 1,050 kilometre walk from Pattaya to Phuket in Thailand. The walk aimed to raise 1 million baht for Take Care Kids, a children’s foundation based in Pattaya that supports underprivileged children who have suffered abuse. The 59 year old, who has two children himself, was…

  • Crime NewsThai cyanide serial killer: Big Joke hands over case reports | Thaiger

    Thai cyanide serial killer: Big Joke hands over case reports

    Deputy national police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn announced today that the case reports against the alleged Thai cyanide serial killer Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn will be presented to prosecutors this week. Big Joke made the statement during a visit to the Correctional Institution for Women in Bangkok’s Bang Khen area, where Sararat is currently detained. Sararat is facing additional charges,…

  • Economy NewsUbolratana Dam usable water drops 11% amid insufficient wastewater plants | Thaiger

    Ubolratana Dam usable water drops 11% amid insufficient wastewater plants

    A significant decrease in usable water has been reported at Khon Kaen’s Ubolratana Dam, with an 11% drop attributed to an insufficient number of wastewater treatment plants in the region. The Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) has revealed that the dam currently holds only 32% of its total capacity, with merely 207 million cubic metres (m³) of usable water,…

  • Phuket NewsKrabi bluebottle: Officials deny Portuguese man-o-war at Phi Phi Islands | Thaiger

    Krabi bluebottle: Officials deny Portuguese man-o-war at Phi Phi Islands

    Despite recent media reports, officials have confirmed that the dangerous Krabi bluebottle Physalia, also known as the Portuguese man-o-war, has not been found on Phi Phi Islands. Last week, Phuket lifeguards raised concerns about the presence of the venomous hydrozoan on the islands, causing alarm for tourists’ safety. However, Ratchanok Phaenoi, Chief of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National…