Thailand News
Thailand news, politics, business, crime, and lifestyle—get breaking updates from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and beyond. Stay informed on Thai society, economy, tourism, and expat life with The Thaiger.
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Why retirees in Thailand are choosing long-term health insurance over quick fixes
Retirees in Thailand are increasingly seeing the importance of health insurance in protecting their well-being during retirement. With insurance requirements for retirement visas and rising healthcare costs, many are moving away from short-term plans and choosing long-term coverage. Long-term health...
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9 most common health issues covered by insurance for expats in Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for expats due to its affordable lifestyle and excellent healthcare system. However, settling in a new country often brings health concerns. To ensure you’re covered for the most common medical needs, understanding what expat health insurance typically includes is key. On this page What’s covered (Jump to section) Description 1. Routine medical care Covers regular…
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Jailed The iCon CEO declares innocence despite 10k complaints
In a dramatic twist straight out of a legal thriller, Warathaphon Waratyaworrakul, aka Boss Paul, the embattled CEO and founder of The iCon Group, proclaimed his innocence from behind bars. Writing from the Bangkok Remand Prison, where he’s been detained since October 18 alongside 17 fellow executives, the direct sales magnate insists there are “no victims” in the case that…
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Wild elephant tragedy claims one life at Loei national park
A dream trip to Thailand turned into a nightmare after a tourist was fatally attacked by a wild elephant in the picturesque Phu Kradueng National Park yesterday, December 10. Officials swiftly closed parts of the park, known for its stunning red maple leaves and serene trails, to prevent further tragedies. The victim, identified as 49 year old Jeeranan from Chachoengsao…
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Syrian woman and Afghan men nabbed in Phuket passport scam
Phuket International Airport turned into a hotspot for international intrigue on Monday as immigration officers caught three travellers attempting to pass through with forged passports. In the first bust, a 27 year old Syrian woman, whose name was withheld, was apprehended trying to enter Thailand with a fake Italian passport. The arrest occurred in the international arrivals hall at about…
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Thai masseuse pleads for justice amid singer’s tragic death
The seasoned Thai masseuse entangled in a whirlpool of controversy following the untimely death of luk thung singer Chayada “Phing” Praohom in the heart of Udon Thani, appealed for justice. The 20 year old Thai singer tragically succumbed two months after a controversial neck-twisting procedure. While an autopsy has cleared the massage of blame, questions and suspicions still linger. Chayada,…
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Concerns raised over blue-coloured residue on Thai chillies
A Facebook user recently raised concerns after discovering a blue residue on chillies intended for drying, seeking advice from knowledgeable individuals. This incident highlighted the use of Mancozeb, a fungicide commonly applied to perishable vegetables prone to fungal attacks. The user shared their experience in an online consumer group, describing how they purchased chillies from the market, packaged in bags,…
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Couple arrested for fake temple donation scam in Tak
Royal Thai Police apprehended a couple suspected of creating fake temple pages to solicit donations during the Kathin festival, deceiving the public and causing losses worth millions. The incident left relatives expressing anger about the moral implications of defrauding charitable contributions. Officers, led by Trirong Phiwan, arrested Tawan and Worawan, both 31 years old, at a resort in Tak province.…
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Cupid stunt: Matchmaking service finds heart of Bangkok economy
Bangkok’s leading matchmaking service is tuning its heartstrings to the economic beat as whispers of a slowdown loom large on the horizon. With the tourism season in full swing, Bangkok Matching is rolling out a suite of strategies to woo foreign travellers hoping to find love while enjoying their Thai escapades. At the helm is the dynamic Kulchulee Subsinudom Nylander,…
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Lost world found: Centara’s splash-tacular revamp makes waves in Pattaya (video)
Centara Hotels & Resorts is pulling out all the stops with a sensational upgrade to its famed Lost World-themed haven, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. This month sees a dazzling debut of new attractions designed to captivate guests of all ages, promising a holiday like no other. Making a splash are four newly unveiled water park zones. Get ready…
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Bangkok MP retains bail despite lese majeste charges
Thai politician Rukchanok Srinork successfully retained her bail status in the ongoing legal proceedings concerning the Computer Crime Act and Section 112. The Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road delivered its verdict, opting not to revoke her bail, despite charges relating to lese majeste against Rukchanok, also known as Ice, a Bangkok MP from the People’s Party (PP). The court proceedings,…
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Gold prices hit the jackpot, investors rush for glittering gains
Gold hit the jackpot today as prices soared, leading to a flurry of action among investors. Luxury lovers found the price of gold jewellery skyrocketing to 43,550 baht per baht weight, sparking a golden scramble in the market. By the crack of dawn, at 9.01am, today, December 11, gold traders were already buzzing with news of price hikes: Gold bars…
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Thai farmers to receive 1,000 baht per rai under new scheme
Thai agricultural officials have launched a scheme offering farmers 1,000 baht per rai, with strict criteria for eligibility. The Department of Agricultural Extension warns against scams, emphasising that no fees or direct communication via SMS or LINE will be involved. The Cabinet recently approved a financial support project to aid rice farmers in managing and improving their crop quality. This…
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ADB revises Thailand GDP forecast, warns of slower Asia growth
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) revised its economic forecasts today, upgrading Thailand’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) projection for this year while maintaining next year’s estimate. However, the bank warns that developing Asia is set to experience slower growth than anticipated, with potential challenges looming due to possible changes in US trade policies under President-elect Donald Trump. Developing Asia, encompassing 46…
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Phuket exhibition showcases skills of rehabilitated inmates
The 18th Southern 14 Provinces Corrections Products Exhibition started at Saphan Hin, Phuket, highlighting the skills and potential of rehabilitated inmates aiming to reintegrate into society. This annual event highlights the significance of second chances and the empowerment of individuals through skill development for a sustainable future. Yesterday evening, December 10, Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat officially opened the exhibition, accompanied…
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Community mourns young boy lost in reckless driving tragedy
A sombre atmosphere enveloped Wat Mujalin as a community mourned at the funeral for a 14 year old boy, who tragically lost his life in a reckless driving incident. The funeral was held yesterday, December 10, in the village of Wang Sai, Khlong Khlung district, Kamphaeng Phet province. The boy, affectionately known as Mickey, was a student at Wachiraprakan Witthayakhom…
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Pattaya entrepreneur gifts exploited children with new bicycles
The Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Abuse Centre (ATCC) in Nong Prue, Pattaya, provides a sanctuary for over 30 victims rescued from the clutches of sexual and slave labour exploitation. The centre offers a secure environment where victims can access education and receive support from counsellors and social workers. The ATCC has played a crucial role in identifying and bringing numerous…
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Police subdue armed suspect after car theft in Phitsanulok
A dramatic police chase unfolded yesterday when a suspect attempted to steal a vehicle from a car dealership in Phitsanulok province. The suspect was eventually subdued after a tense confrontation that left two officers injured. The incident began when police from Highway Station 3, Sub-Division 5, Thalang, received a report yesterday, December 10, about a white Mitsubishi Pajero with the…
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Chinese tourist’s family seeks justice after fatal paragliding accident
The family of a Chinese tourist who tragically died in a paragliding accident in Phetchabun has cremated his body and is now preparing to take legal action against the agency responsible for the fatal activity. The incident occurred when Huang Hao, a Chinese national, was paragliding from Phu Thap Boek and fell to his death in Lom Kao district on…
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Suphan Buri man arrested for drug-induced chaos at home
Police in Suphan Buri arrested a 29 year old man after he caused chaos at his home after a drug-induced frenzy. Despite having been imprisoned 17 times previously, his family was exasperated by his continued drug use after being released from prison one year ago. The incident occurred yesterday, December 10, when local administrative officers and a special task force…
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Thai food for thought: Restaurant sector set for festive tourism feast
The Thai restaurant sector is set to experience a significant boost during the new year festive season, largely driven by an increase in holiday travel and tourism. Despite this optimistic outlook, the Thai Restaurant Association expressed concerns regarding a potential decline in total spending on food and beverages due to weakened purchasing power and the concentration of activities in popular…
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Thai company accused of 3 billion baht condo scam
A financial scandal involving a company accused of deceiving people into buying condominiums has left victims in debt amounting to 3 billion baht. Pavena Hongsakul, chairperson of the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, accompanied 70 victims to submit a formal request for investigation to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) yesterday, December 10. The victims, representing over 200 affected…
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Buriram abbot denies misconduct and firearm possession
Accusations against a revered abbot in Buriram province have emerged, involving inappropriate conduct and possession of a firearm within a temple. The abbot, however, firmly denies all allegations, asserting his innocence and urging Buddhist officials to investigate the claims thoroughly. Residents of Chorakhe Mak in Prakhon Chai district expressed concerns about the abbot’s alleged behaviours, which include sending explicit video…
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High stakes: Phuket cops bust illegal gambling ring with big names
Phuket police apprehended 14 individuals involved in an illegal gambling operation in Ratsada. Among those arrested were the wife of a local politician, the wife of a police officer, and a lawyer. Police acted on a tip-off, leading them to the property at 64/16 Soi Karn Keha 5. Officers arrived at 6.30pm yesterday, December 10 and surrounded the single-story house.…
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Dog roaming at Khao Yai may cost owner 20,000 baht fine
A red sedan was spotted at Khao Yai National Park, with its owner allowing a dog to roam freely, potentially facing a fine of up to 20,000 baht. This incident, which took place over the recent weekend, stirred significant attention on social media. The head of Khao Yai National Park, Chaiya Huaihongthong, confirmed the situation. A tourist captured images of…
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Myanmar man arrested in Thailand for fake visa stamp
Immigration police in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya apprehended a 23 year old Myanmar national for presenting a passport with a fake visa stamp. This arrest highlights the ongoing challenges of managing immigration and the use of counterfeit documents. The Burmese man, Min Thu Ko, was arrested on Monday, December 9 at the Immigration Office in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya when he…
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Thai gambling boss attacks reporter during police questioning (video)
A notorious online gambling site owner recently attacked a reporter during police questioning, further intensifying the ongoing investigation into his criminal activities. The incident occurred yesterday, December 10, at Chaiyapruek Police Station in Nonthaburi, following the arrest of the suspect. The suspect, 38 year old Chakkrik Philaowan, has been under scrutiny for allegedly assaulting a 24 year old employee, identified…
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Health officials suspended after video of fatal restraint emerges
Two health officials at Kantharalak Hospital in Sisaket province have been suspended and are under investigation following the death of 31 year old man. The incident, which sparked significant attention and concern, occurred after a video surfaced showing the patient, Sa-ard Boonlabeing, forcibly restrained by hospital staff. His family, deeply troubled by the circumstances of his death, sought an autopsy,…
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Charity dinner in Hua Hin to raise funds for impoverished children
Hands Across the Water, an Australian charity established to support victims of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, is hosting a charity dinner to raise funds for a commemorative charity run. The run, initiated by the charity’s founder, Peter Baines, began on December 1 and is set to conclude on December 26, marking the 20th anniversary of the devastating tragedy that…
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Explosion leads to house fire rescue in Bangkok’s Yannawa district
A loud explosion startled residents who initially thought school students were causing a commotion, only to discover a raging fire engulfing a two-storey house. The urgency to save two women trapped inside heightened as they were unable to escape due to barred windows. At 2.10am yesterday, December 10, Somkriat Jaitrong, an investigator from Thung Mahamek Police Station, received a report…
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High school student fatally stabs junior at Sattahip school
A tragic incident unfolded in Sattahip, Chon Buri as police located a high school student from a prominent private school suspected of fatally stabbing a younger student. The altercation, which began as a challenge and escalated into a physical confrontation, ended with the first-year student succumbing to his injuries after being stabbed in the back. Police officers, including Thanaphon Klin…
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