News

Thailand news, politics, business, crime, lifestyle, and tourism—stay updated with breaking news and in-depth analysis from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and beyond. The Thaiger delivers the latest national news that matters.

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  • Phuket goes green: Old town steps up for carbon-free tourism

    Phuket goes green: Old town steps up for carbon-free tourism

    Phuket Old Town took centre stage on Monday, November 18, as the Department of Tourism unveiled its bold initiative to promote low-carbon tourism routes, marking a milestone in sustainable travel for the 2024 fiscal year. Local leaders and media gathered for the showcase event in the historic heart of Phuket, which spotlighted eco-friendly travel practices and the charm of the…

  • Buriram land dispute nears resolution as SRT claims ownership

    Buriram land dispute nears resolution as SRT claims ownership

    A significant land dispute over a 5,083-rai plot in Buriram’s Khao Kradong is set to be resolved, as Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit confirmed that the land belongs to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). With 900 people currently residing on this land, the ministry aims to address the situation within the next 30 days. The Supreme Court ruled in favour…

  • Bet your bottom baht: Phuket cops cash in on secret gambling bust

    Bet your bottom baht: Phuket cops cash in on secret gambling bust

    Thalang Police swooped on an underground gambling ring in Srisoonthorn, Phuket, arresting 11 people during a targeted raid led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Suchart Luecha. The operation took place at a worker’s residence in Village 4, Srisoonthorn, yesterday, November 19, resulting in a high-profile haul and hefty charges for those involved. Among the arrested were nine women and two men,…

  • Royal Thai Army officer charged for embezzling funds in Chon Buri

    Royal Thai Army officer charged for embezzling funds in Chon Buri

    The Royal Thai Army (RTA) announced disciplinary action against a military officer at the 14th Military Circle in Chon Buri, following allegations of embezzling bail money from defendants. The officer is facing both criminal charges and potential severe disciplinary measures. Discussions with the victims are scheduled for tomorrow to explore possible assistance. An internal investigation confirmed the misconduct, leading to…

  • Pickup crash in Chiang Kham causes district-wide power outage

    Pickup crash in Chiang Kham causes district-wide power outage

    A dramatic incident unfolded when a speeding pickup truck careened off a curve and crashed into an electricity pole, plunging an entire district into darkness. The power outage affected Chiang Kham district, where local electricity authority officials promptly worked to restore power. Yesterday, November 19, a rescue team from the Siam Phayao Foundation’s main office in Chiang Kham responded to…

  • Thailand partners with Turkey to build high-speed rail empire

    Thailand partners with Turkey to build high-speed rail empire

    Thailand is gearing up to transform its rail landscape by partnering with Turkey’s state-owned train manufacturer, Türasaş, in a bold step towards high-speed travel. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit revealed on Monday, November 18, that the collaboration aims to boost Thailand’s transport sector and establish a domestic rail manufacturing industry. During his recent visit to Türasaş’s Sakarya facility in Turkey, Suriya…

  • Thailand ranks in top three for Southeast Asia IPOs

    Thailand ranks in top three for Southeast Asia IPOs

    Thailand has emerged as one of the top three initial public offering (IPO) markets in Southeast Asia, securing 26% of the total fundraising in the region. This achievement reflects a robust pipeline of IPOs, particularly in the consumer, healthcare, and real estate sectors, according to global consultancy Deloitte. As of yesterday, November 19, Thailand conducted 29 IPOs in the year,…

  • Sky’s the limit: RTAF aims to reach new heights with space plans

    Sky’s the limit: RTAF aims to reach new heights with space plans

    The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is looking to take Thailand’s defences to new heights. Plans are underway for a bold rebranding as the Royal Thai Air Force and Space alongside the creation of a new unit aimed at safeguarding Thailand’s air and space interests. This strategic move, announced by RTAF spokesperson Air Marshal Prapas Sornjaidee yesterday, November 19, highlights Thailand’s…

  • Pattaya revamps park to oust venomous visitors near residence

    Pattaya revamps park to oust venomous visitors near residence

    Residents near Jeh Madi Mansion, close to Soi Sukhumvit 28 and Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, raised the alarm over unwelcome slithery neighbours – venomous creatures lurking a little too close to home. In response, Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai, flanked by local council members and city officials, launched an emergency renovation project yesterday, November 19, clearing out the public area to improve…

  • Cheers to safety: Thailand’s plan to tackle alcohol-fuelled crashes

    Cheers to safety: Thailand’s plan to tackle alcohol-fuelled crashes

    Thailand is ringing in the new year with a determined focus on safety, as Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin reveals a no-nonsense plan to tackle alcohol-fuelled road accidents during the festive celebrations. With the Christmas and new year season notorious for its spike in drink-related mishaps, the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee has rolled out four game-changing measures to keep partygoers…

  • Thai lottery draw dates changed to accomodate new year holidays

    Thai lottery draw dates changed to accomodate new year holidays

    The Thai Government Lottery Office (GLO) announced a change in the schedule for two upcoming lottery draws. The draw initially set for December 30, will now take place on January 2, 2025, due to the new year festivities. This adjustment allows for a more suitable timing, providing 17 days for the sale of lottery tickets for this particular draw. The…

  • Chiang Mai swept up: Chinese investors leave locals concerned

    Chiang Mai swept up: Chinese investors leave locals concerned

    Residents in Chiang Mai have raised concerns about the future after Chinese investors continue to sweep up real estate in the largest city of northern Thailand. Locals are speaking out against what they see as an increasing domination by Chinese investors swooping in to purchase property en masse, fundamentally altering neighbourhoods and threatening the city’s cultural identity and economic autonomy.…

  • Sisaket holds vibrant cultural celebration for 242nd anniversary

    Sisaket holds vibrant cultural celebration for 242nd anniversary

    Over 5,000 people from four ethnic groups—Suay, Lao, Yer, and Khmer—gathered to celebrate the 242nd anniversary of Sisaket province. The event, held yesterday, November 19, at the Kopura area within the King Rama IX Park in Mueang Sisaket district, was a homage to the province’s rich history and the ancestors who laid its foundations. The celebration, led by Anupong Suksamnit,…

  • Thai court delivers justice: Cyanide serial killer sentenced to death

    Thai court delivers justice: Cyanide serial killer sentenced to death

    The Criminal Court of Thailand delivered a nail-biting verdict today, sentencing the notorious cyanide serial killer to death for her chilling role in the murder of 14 innocent people. The Criminal Court wasn’t pulling any punches, as her accomplices didn’t get off lightly either. The cyanide serial killer’s ex-police officer husband, Police Lieutenant Colonel Witun Rangsiwutthaphon, has been given a…

  • Grenade attack at Songkhla construction site injures three

    Grenade attack at Songkhla construction site injures three

    A construction workers’ camp was attacked with an M79 grenade launcher, leading to a fire and injuring three people. The assault occurred in a private company’s restricted area in Thepha district, Songkhla, early this morning. Police are actively investigating the incident. The unexpected attack took place at approximately 6am, targeting the workers’ accommodation within a large Guan Yin statue construction…

  • Justice minister says ‘no special treatment’ for Yingluck

    Justice minister says ‘no special treatment’ for Yingluck

    Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s potential return to Thailand sparked a national debate after her brother, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, hinted at a possible homecoming around next year’s Songkran festival. Speaking in an interview with Nikkei Asia, Thaksin stated his sister could be coming home. “I don’t think there’s any issue preventing her from coming home. I believe she…

  • GLO hosts Chiang Mai lottery draw to boost transparency

    GLO hosts Chiang Mai lottery draw to boost transparency

    The Government Lottery Office (GLO) of Thailand is set to conduct a lottery draw in Chiang Mai province on December 1. This initiative aims to enhance transparency in the lottery process and methods, offering the public an opportunity to witness the proceedings firsthand. The lottery draw, set for December 1, will take place at the Chiang Mai International Exhibition and…

  • Sunbathing crocodile makes snappy getaway into Ping River

    Sunbathing crocodile makes snappy getaway into Ping River

    A 2-metre crocodile was spotted sunbathing at a sand quarry in Chiang Mai before making a quick escape into the Ping River. Witnesses believe the reptile might have escaped from a farm during recent floods. Concerns for public safety have prompted calls for its immediate capture. Reports have emerged from Chiang Mai about an unexpected encounter with a crocodile at…

  • Thai man admits to kicking stranger’s head in Kalasin (video)

    Thai man admits to kicking stranger’s head in Kalasin (video)

    A man who kicked a stranger in the head at a dance event in the northeastern province of Kalasin has turned himself into the police, claiming alcohol-induced actions and expressing remorse upon sobering up. The police are continuing their investigation following the viral video of the incident. A Facebook user posted a video capturing the unexpected moment when a man,…

  • Gun attack at Phatthalung furniture store leaves youths terrified

    Gun attack at Phatthalung furniture store leaves youths terrified

    An alarming incident unfolded at a furniture store in Phatthalung, where eight youths were left terrified following an attack by an assailant wielding two guns. The attack, which occurred in the early hours of today, November 20, left bullet casings scattered and glass shattered. Police were alerted to the incident when vehicles were heard circling the area just after 3.30am.…

  • Thailand video news | Phuket clash over gender misunderstanding, Cambodia targets foreign-led human trafficking

    Thailand video news | Phuket clash over gender misunderstanding, Cambodia targets foreign-led human trafficking

    In today’s Thailand news video, Alex and Jay bring you the latest news from Thailand and Southeast Asia. From a gender misunderstanding sparking a hotel clash in Phuket to a British tourist’s drunken brawl in Pattaya, these stories highlight the region’s diverse happenings. In Nakhon Phanom, police uncover drugs hidden in Buddha statues, while a Khon Kaen officer faces bribery…

  • Teen rescued after leg trapped in rice harvester in Uthai Thani

    Teen rescued after leg trapped in rice harvester in Uthai Thani

    A 17 year old boy suffered a harrowing incident when he slipped and his leg got caught in a rice harvester‘s grain tank. Emergency services rushed to the scene in Uthai Thani province to rescue him using cutting equipment, highlighting the dangers of agricultural machinery. Officials, including Chatmongkol Suwannasate, Deputy Mayor of Nong Chang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, received an alert…

  • Phuket succuessfully tests new mobile emergency alert system

    Phuket succuessfully tests new mobile emergency alert system

    The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), and the Phuket Provincial Office, successfully trialled the Cell Broadcast mobile emergency warning system. The trial, conducted yesterday, November 19, at the Chao Fah Meeting Room in Phuket Provincial Hall, was led by Vice Governor Adul Chuthong and witnessed by key figures, including Nattapol Natthasomboon, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital…

  • Crane operator found dead at Ayutthaya construction site

    Crane operator found dead at Ayutthaya construction site

    A tragic incident unfolded yesterday when a 41 year old crane operator was discovered dead atop a crane, standing over 20 metres tall, at a construction site in Ayutthaya province. His colleagues noticed his absence during lunch, prompting the search. Police Lieutenant Saknarit Rattanaphan from Bang Sai Police Station received the report about the death on the crane located in…

  • Pickup truck crash leaves seven dead after police chase in Thailand

    Pickup truck crash leaves seven dead after police chase in Thailand

    A high-speed chase involving a suspected pickup truck ended in tragedy when the vehicle crashed into a power pole and plunged into a roadside canal, resulting in seven fatalities. The incident occurred today, November 20, at 12.30am, as reported by Pratchaya Bunnat, an investigator at Bang Len Police Station. The crash site was identified at the Koh Rat curve in…

  • Nakhon Pathom police instructor accused of sexual assault

    Nakhon Pathom police instructor accused of sexual assault

    Allegations have surfaced regarding a police academy instructor and a fellow officer in Sam Phran district, Nakhon Pathom province, accused of sexually assaulting a cadet. The whistleblower claims multiple victims, with higher-ranking officers allegedly covering up the incidents. The Facebook page บิ๊กเกรียน (“Big Grean”), boasting over 320,000 followers, has brought to light distressing allegations from a police cadet. The cadet…

  • Elderly man survives savage bear encounter in Khao Yai Park

    Elderly man survives savage bear encounter in Khao Yai Park

    A 75 year old man narrowly escaped a life-threatening encounter with a giant Asiatic black bear while collecting fishing traps near Khao Yai National Park. The bear attack left him with severe facial injuries and a desperate struggle for survival. The dramatic incident occurred yesterday afternoon, November 19, when the local rescue unit in Prachinburi received an urgent call at…

  • Elderly couple gets 500 baht electricity bill for a single fan (video)

    Elderly couple gets 500 baht electricity bill for a single fan (video)

    A TikTok user discovered an unusually high electricity bill for an elderly couple who used only a single fan. The bill amounted to 500 baht, raising suspicions among social media users about potential electrical issues or misuse. TikTok user @bank_waiyaphat, who works as an electricity bill distributor, posted a video highlighting the anomaly in the electricity usage of a home…

  • Suphan Buri monk defrocked after 400k baht fraud scandal

    Suphan Buri monk defrocked after 400k baht fraud scandal

    A Buddhist monk in Suphan Buri province has been defrocked following allegations of involvement in a fraudulent scheme with a spirit medium, deceiving a family out of 400,000 baht. Dr Phra Maha Praipai Nontkaew, the head monk of Suphan Buri province, explained on social media that the case emerged when Gun Jompalang, a well-known influencer, assisted the affected family in…

  • Thailand braces for cooler north and heavy rainfall in south

    Thailand braces for cooler north and heavy rainfall in south

    Thailand’s northern regions are experiencing a drop in temperature accompanied by strong winds, while the southern part is facing heavy to very heavy rainfall in certain areas. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a forecast for the next 24 hours, highlighting these weather conditions. A moderate high-pressure system from China extends over upper Thailand and the South China Sea, contributing…