Cabinet to approve 10 million baht compensation for families of fallen border troops

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30 March 2026, 12:27

S__42385473_0 — Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree

BANGKOK — The Royal Thai Army is expediting compensation and welfare support for personnel affected by recent clashes along the Thai–Cambodian border, with a proposal seeking cabinet approval of 10 million baht (304,690 USD) for families of those killed in the line of duty.

Speaking on 30 March at army headquarters, spokesperson Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree said the army recognises the sacrifices of its personnel and is committed to ensuring they and their families receive full support.

He said benefits under the army’s authority have already been delivered to affected families, including royal assistance funds, war-risk compensation and special pensions.

Additional support from the government, including the proposed 10 million baht payment for personnel killed during operations in December, is currently undergoing administrative procedures. Since January, the army has compiled documentation and submitted it to the Budget Bureau for approval from the central budget.

The proposal is now being reviewed before submission to the prime minister, and will subsequently be forwarded to the cabinet for final approval.

Winthai said the army chief has prioritised welfare and benefits for personnel, instructing commanders at all levels to closely follow up cases and provide support to families as if they were their own.

He added that assistance goes beyond paperwork, including visits to families to offer moral support and assess any hardships, ensuring no one is left behind.

The army reaffirmed it would continue coordinating with the Prime Minister’s Office to speed up the process so that families of the fallen receive their entitled support as soon as possible, in recognition of their sacrifice in defending the country’s sovereignty.

Cambodia rejects IQAir data, defends official air quality readings

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Khaosod English

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30 March 2026, 11:47

PHNOM PENH — Cambodia’s Ministry of Environment has rejected recent pollution reports based on data from IQAir, saying they do not reflect actual conditions.

In a 29 March statement, the ministry criticised international coverage, including by Radio France Internationale, for relying on external data without cross-checking official sources.

Spokesperson Khvay Atitya said Cambodia uses a nationwide monitoring network that directly measures pollutants such as PM2.5. He argued IQAir relies partly on satellite data and modelling, which may not capture local conditions accurately.

He said air quality from 07:00 on 28 March to 07:00 on 29 March was “good”, with PM2.5 averaging 25.32 µg/m³, below the 50 µg/m³ standard.

Atitya added that satellite systems may misread humidity or fog as pollution, especially in cities like Phnom Penh, and urged media to verify data with national sources.

IQAir is a Swiss-based company specialising in air quality monitoring and pollution protection technologies, and operates the AirVisual platform, which provides real-time global air quality data. Its key markets include Asia and North America.

Man rides motorcycle to govt house seeking justice

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30 March 2026, 11:46

Man rides motorcycle to govt house seeking justice

BANGKOK — 30 March 2026, A man rode a motorcycle up to Government House on Monday, sounding his horn and shouting for Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul while demanding compensation, before being intercepted and persuaded to leave by security officers.

The incident occurred shortly after Anutin had departed Government House at 10:20 to attend an external engagement.

At about 10:35, the man, later identified as Phongphichan Thanathiraphong, entered through the Chamai Maruchet Bridge gate and rode towards the Thai Khu Fah building, the prime minister’s office. He repeatedly sounded his horn and called out for the premier, demanding compensation and protesting a 500-baht fine imposed by Phahonyothin police.

Security officers on motorcycles pursued and stopped him at the steps of the Thai Khu Fah building.

Phongphichan claimed he was disabled and had been denied justice for 18 days. He also said he was a lifelong member of the Bhumjaithai Party and from the same home province as prominent political figures, including Newin Chidchob, chairman of Buriram United Football Club, and House Speaker Sophon Saram. He urged authorities to show sympathy, saying he had supported the party.

Four police officers stationed at Government House negotiated with the man before escorting him away on a motorcycle to the Government House complaints centre, operated by the Office of the Civil Service Commission, for further processing.

Local media reported that Phongphichan had staged similar incidents in the past, including driving a taxi to park outside the Thai Khu Fah building during the administration of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, as well as at the former parliament complex on U Thong Nai Road. He has also made similar appeals at the Ministry of Culture and at offices of several political parties, including Bhumjaithai, Pheu Thai and the Democrat Party.

BEDO hosts “biodiversity credit roadmap of Thailand” workshop to advance nature-positive economy

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Mc Marketing

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30 March 2026, 11:27

Bangkok – The Biodiversity-Based Economy Development Office (Public Organization), or BEDO, organized a workshop titled “Biodiversity Credit Roadmap of Thailand” from 26 to 28 March 2026 at The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam, Bangkok. The event aims to advance biodiversity finance mechanisms in Thailand in alignment with international frameworks.

The workshop supports the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework under the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity, which sets the “Nature Positive” target to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and restore ecosystems over the long term. Biodiversity Credit is being developed as a market-based financial mechanism to mobilize funding from all sectors for conservation and ecosystem restoration.

Raweewan Bhuridej, Ph.D., Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, delivered the opening remarks and highlighted the implementation of policies under Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment. She stated that Thailand has established a clear direction to integrate conservation with development through the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2023 to 2027. The plan outlines three key strategies and 12 major targets, including expanding protected areas to at least 30 percent of land and marine areas, maintaining the status of threatened species, and encouraging businesses to integrate biodiversity considerations into their operations.

She added that BEDO serves as a key agency in driving Thailand’s bioeconomy and has been studying international approaches to Biodiversity Credit, covering definitions, principles, assessment systems, and market mechanisms. These efforts are accompanied by an analysis of their applicability to Thailand, which has rich ecosystem diversity and therefore requires strong academic knowledge and collaboration from all sectors.

Tanit Changthavorn, Ph.D., Director General, Biodiversity-Based Economy Development Office (Public Organization), said in his keynote that the world is facing three major crises: climate change, PM2.5 pollution, and biodiversity loss. These challenges directly affect the global economy, with more than 50 percent of global GDP depending on nature. This highlights the need for innovative financial tools such as Biodiversity Credit to mobilize funding for conservation and ecosystem restoration.

BEDO is advancing the concept of a Nature Positive Economy through collaboration with the private sector under the Biodiversity and Business Sustainability program. The initiative aims to enable businesses to operate while enhancing natural capital, while also creating opportunities for local communities to access funding and actively participate in ecosystem restoration through mechanisms such as Community Biobanks and family forests.

The workshop also brought together experts from Thailand and abroad, including representatives from UNDP, the Asian Development Bank, Conservation International, and WWF, as well as leading academics and private sector stakeholders. Discussions focused on market trends, international frameworks, and global case studies related to Biodiversity Credit.

In addition, participants were introduced to the Business and Biodiversity Check tool, which helps assess business impacts and dependencies on biodiversity. The program also included practical training on developing Biodiversity Credit projects and evaluating credits in accordance with international standards such as VERRA.

BEDO expects that the workshop will enhance understanding of Biodiversity Credit in Thailand, strengthen collaboration among stakeholders, and support the development of policy approaches to drive the sustainable conservation and utilization of biodiversity in the long term.

Foreign man runs amok after being woken on Pattaya street

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30 March 2026, 10:59

Foreign man runs amok after being woken on Pattaya street

PATTAYA — 30 March 2026, A foreign man allegedly went on a rampage after being woken while sleeping by the roadside on Walking Street, chasing and attacking locals and tourists, police said.

At 09:00, investigators at Pattaya City Police Station were alerted to a foreign national behaving aggressively on Walking Street in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province. Officers were dispatched to the scene.

Police found a man, believed to be aged between 30 and 35, in an agitated state inside a nearby building. He was reported to have chased and attempted to assault members of the public and tourists, causing panic in the area. Bystanders and good samaritans eventually helped restrain him.

A driver for the Bolt ride-hailing application told police he had found the man lying by the roadside and, concerned for his safety, tried to wake him to prevent a possible accident. Upon waking, the man became angry, verbally abusive and attempted to attack those trying to assist him, prompting nearby residents to intervene.

Police initially took the man into custody at Pattaya City Police Station to calm him down and said legal proceedings would follow.

Finn in tears after bar women steal cash, Rolex

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Khaosod English

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30 March 2026, 10:12

Finn in tears after bar women steal cash, Rolex

PATTAYA — 30 March 2026, A Finnish man was left in tears after he was allegedly drugged by two bar workers who then stole cash and a luxury Rolex watch worth nearly 700,000 baht, police said.

At 02:06 Mr. Kenneth, 30, reported the incident to investigators at Pattaya City Police Station after falling victim to the theft at his hotel room in the Jomtien area of Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province.

Kenneth told police he had been drinking at a beer bar before inviting two women back to his room to continue drinking. He said he later became unusually drowsy and fell asleep.

When he woke up, he discovered 5,000 baht in cash and his Rolex wristwatch, valued at about 700,000 baht, were missing. He told officers he was certain the two women were responsible.

Police recorded the complaint and have coordinated with investigative officers to review CCTV footage in the area in an effort to identify and apprehend the suspects for legal action.

One of Bangkok’s most sought-after freehold residences now down to the final 5 two-bedroom units

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Mc Marketing

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30 March 2026, 10:00

Bangkok, Thailand — SCOPE Company Limited, a Bangkok-based ultra-luxury residential developer, announces the release of the final five two-bedroom residences at SCOPE Langsuan, marking the last opportunity to own a freehold home in one of Bangkok’s tightly held residential addresses.

Located on Langsuan Road, where new freehold supply is increasingly limited, SCOPE Langsuan combines prime location, generous living space, and long-term asset value. The project is situated just 100 metres from Chidlom intersection, within walking distance of BTS Chidlom, Central Embassy, Central Chidlom, and Lumpini Park — offering a rare balance of city convenience and residential privacy.

The Langsuan–Ploenchit area has long been recognized as one of Bangkok’s most desirable residential neighborhoods, particularly among expatriates and long-term international residents.

“We are seeing a clear shift toward larger residences in central Bangkok, particularly among expatriates and long-term residents who prioritise space, privacy, and immediate livability,” said Mr. Yongyutt Chaipromprasith, Chief Executive Officer of SCOPE Company Limited.

“With very limited freehold land remaining on Langsuan Road, these final units represent a rare opportunity to secure a long-term asset in one of Bangkok’s most established and internationally recognized residential locations.”

Designed in collaboration with Thomas Juul-Hansen and Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), SCOPE Langsuan reflects international standards of design, with a focus on proportion, materiality, and functional living.

Each two-bedroom residence offers:

Generous living space from 154 sq.m.
Thoughtfully designed layouts for everyday living

High-end materials and premium finishes

A strong sense of privacy

Residents also benefit from SCOPE’s signature services, including weekly housekeeping, daily coffee and matcha service, and concierge support — delivering a hospitality-style living experience within a private residential setting.

The Langsuan–Ploenchit area remains one of Bangkok’s strongest expatriate residential and rental markets, particularly for larger units in prime central locations. Since the beginning of 2026, the majority of units sold at SCOPE Langsuan have been two-bedroom residences, reflecting a clear trend toward larger living spaces among expatriates and long-term residents. At the same time, several two-bedroom units have been leased within a short period, achieving rental rates of up to 380,000 Baht per month, reinforcing the project’s strong rental performance and long-term investment potential.

For international buyers, ownership at SCOPE Langsuan may support eligibility for Thailand’s Long Stay Visa programme, subject to applicable conditions. SCOPE also facilitates the application process in coordination with Thailand Longstay Company. Under the programme’s terms, buyers of units valued at 100 million Baht and above may receive a waiver of the first-year visa service fee (27,000 Baht), as determined by Thailand Longstay Company.

With only five two-bedroom residences remaining, SCOPE Langsuan is now entering its final phase of sales. This is a rare opportunity to own a freehold residence in one of Bangkok’s most tightly held and prestigious neighborhoods.

Prices start from 92 Million Baht
Unit size from 154 sq.m.
Private viewing by appointment only

For more information or to schedule a viewing, please contact
Tel: 02 028 9788
Line: @scopecollection

Thai police arrest gold shop burglar, ATM theft

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Khaosod English

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29 March 2026, 18:09

Thai police arrest gold shop burglar, ATM theft

KHON KAEN — 29 March 2026, Police have arrested a 24-year-old man for breaking into a gold shop and withdrawing cash using a stolen ATM card, taking a total of 25,000 baht, officers said.

At 14:30 Pol. Col. Phakphum Decharuangsri, superintendent of Ban Ped police station, led investigators in re-enacting the crime at four locations with the suspect, identified only as Narin, from Bua Lai district in Nakhon Ratchasima province.

The first location was an ATM at a petrol station on Maliwan Road where the suspect withdrew cash. The second was where he discarded an ATM card. The third was a white Toyota pickup truck he had left at a bus shelter about 800 metres from the gold shop. The final location was the shop itself in Ban Thum subdistrict, Mueang district, Khon Kaen, whose name and staff identities were withheld.

Police said the break-in occurred at about 02:00 on 28 March. CCTV footage showed a man aged around 20–30 wearing a short-sleeved shirt, long trousers and a face covering walking past the shop before placing a chair on an ice container to climb onto the roof. He then cut through the roofing, broke through the ceiling and forced open metal bars to search for valuables.

The suspect took an ATM card and coins before exiting through the rear door using a key found inside. He then drove to refuel and used the ATM card twice at a PTT petrol station, withdrawing 2,000 baht and 23,000 baht, totalling 25,000 baht.

The shop owner was alerted during the incident by a banking application showing ATM withdrawals. The theft was discovered the following morning when the shop was opened.

Investigators tracked the suspect using CCTV footage, identifying the pickup truck as belonging to a logistics company in northeastern Thailand. The vehicle was fitted with a GPS system, allowing officers to locate the suspect at an internet café in the Kangsadan area of Khon Kaen. He was arrested as he returned to the vehicle.

During questioning, Narin admitted acting alone and said he had not planned the crime in advance. He told police he was under financial pressure, as his father has been imprisoned on drug charges for over a year and his mother supports four younger siblings on limited income. He earns about 300 baht a day as a delivery driver and said his mother frequently asked him for money.

He said he did not intend to steal gold but took whatever he could find, including an ATM card with a PIN written on it. After withdrawing the cash, he spent 1,100 baht on fuel and planned to deposit the remainder and transfer it to his mother, but was arrested before he could do so.

Police seized cash, one ATM card and tools used in the crime, including cutting pliers and a screwdriver. Officers also recovered a second ATM card discarded in nearby scrubland, as indicated by the suspect.

He has been charged with night-time theft involving damage to protective barriers and offences under the Computer Crime Act. Police said he has been handed over to investigators at Ban Ped police station for legal proceedings.

Mukdahan customs seize 60,000 counterfeit luxury items worth over 40 million baht

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Khaosod English

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29 March 2026, 17:55

MUKDAHAN — 29 March 2026, Mukdahan Customs Office Region 2 has seized more than 60,000 counterfeit luxury items, including bags, clothing, and perfumes, with an estimated value exceeding 40 million baht (around US$1.2 million). The operation follows government policy to prevent and suppress the illegal importation of goods into Thailand.

Dr. Aekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, instructed the Customs Department to strictly enforce measures against illegal goods under the government’s Quick Big Win initiative. Director-General of Customs Mr. Phanthong Loikulanun received the directive and ordered all operational units to act decisively.

On 29 March 2026, Ms. Suntareeya Tawichaprasit, Deputy Director-General of the Customs Department, and Ms. Lalita Atthapimol, Director of Customs Region 2, directed Mr. Surat Rueangprayoon, Director of Customs Control Division Region 2, along with Mr. Nattapoom Dokphut, Head of the Investigation and Suppression Unit, and officers from Region 2, to coordinate with Mukdahan Customs checkpoint, the Northeast Investigation and Suppression Unit, and local security agencies.

Two six-wheeled trucks with sealed containers were intercepted in Kuchinarai District, Kalasin Province. Mukdahan serves as a key trading gateway to Laos, Vietnam, and China, making it a frequent entry point for counterfeit branded goods. The inspection uncovered over 60,000 items, including bags, clothing, hats, and perfumes, all imported from abroad without customs documentation and violating trademark laws.

Authorities seized the goods and vehicles as evidence and brought the suspects to Mukdahan Customs for prosecution under the Customs Act B.E. 2560, the Trademark Act B.E. 2534, and other relevant laws.

PM2.5 haze linked to rise in ENT health issues

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Khaosod English

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29 March 2026, 17:06

PM2.5 haze linked to rise in ENT health issues

CHIANG MAI — 29 March 2026, Air pollution from fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is contributing to a rise in ear, nose and throat (ENT) conditions, with doctors warning of increased irritation, infections and worsening symptoms among vulnerable groups.

Health Impacts

In Thailand, particularly in the northern region during February and March, PM2.5 levels tend to rise significantly. Exposure through the nose can inflame the nasal lining, leading to symptoms such as itching, burning sensations, sneezing, runny nose and even nosebleeds. Higher pollution levels have also been associated with increased cases of upper respiratory tract infections, including pharyngitis, tonsillitis, postnasal inflammation and bronchitis.

Beyond the respiratory system, pollution has been linked to eye irritation, risks to fetal development, delayed brain development in children, and increased likelihood of stroke, lung cancer and cognitive decline in older adults.

Patients using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines may experience increased nasal congestion, which can interfere with treatment. They are adviced to clean and replace the air filters regularly.

Prevention and Care

Health officials recommend monitoring air quality updates, wearing protective masks such as N95 respirators, avoiding outdoor activities, using air purifiers indoors and maintaining overall health. They also recommend saline nasal irrigation to remove allergens, though they caution against forceful blowing to prevent bleeding.

For first aid in cases of nosebleeds, individuals are advised to pinch the soft part of the nose and lean forward to prevent blood from flowing down the throat. Pressure should be maintained for five to 10 minutes. If bleeding persists, is heavy, or is accompanied by dizziness or palpitations, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Health Impacts

Prevention and Care

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