Mass fish deaths reported amid plankton bloom in Chumphon

By

-

4 June 2026, 14:08

Mass fish deaths reported amid plankton bloom in Chumphon

CHUMPHON — 2 June 2026, Thai authorities have launched an investigation after marine life deaths and discoloured seawater were reported near the Pak Nam Tako estuary in Chumphon province, with preliminary findings indicating a plankton bloom and unusually low dissolved oxygen levels.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin ordered the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources to assess the cause of the incident, evaluate its impact and develop measures to prevent further damage to marine resources and aquaculture operations in the area.

Department Director-General Pinsak Suraswadi assigned researchers from the Central Gulf of Thailand Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre to conduct field surveys, test seawater quality and collect plankton samples.

Preliminary surveys found reddish-brown seawater with a strong fishy odour and numerous dead marine animals, most of them fish. Ponyfish were the most commonly recorded species, followed by scad, tonguefish and blue swimming crabs.

Analysis of plankton samples found a bloom of diatoms, with dominant species including Pseudo-nitzschia spp. at an average density of 13,430 cells per litre, followed by Thalassiothrix spp. at 11,650 cells per litre and Pleurosigma spp. at 10,270 cells per litre.

Researchers said the concentrations were high enough to cause seawater discolouration, a phenomenon associated with plankton blooms.

Initial water quality measurements showed pH levels ranging from 7.82 to 8.27, temperatures between 29.7 and 32.5 degrees Celsius, salinity levels of 25 to 32 parts per thousand and dissolved oxygen levels of 3.95 to 6.28 milligrams per litre.

In fish cage farming areas near the Pak Nam Tako estuary, some seabass deaths were reported. Researchers recorded dissolved oxygen levels as low as 3.95 milligrams per litre, which is considered relatively low for sustaining aquatic life.

Officials said seawater discolouration can occur when phytoplankton densities exceed approximately 10,000 cells per litre, depending on species composition and local environmental conditions.

They added that plankton blooms can reduce dissolved oxygen levels, particularly near the seabed, creating stressful conditions for marine animals and potentially contributing to fish mortality.

Authorities said further analysis is under way to determine the full extent of the impact and identify any additional contributing factors.

Clouded Leopard “Nong Yan” highlights Khao Kheow Zoo’s global conservation success

By

Khaosod English

-

4 June 2026, 13:19

Clouded Leopard “Nong Yan” highlights Khao Kheow Zoo’s global conservation success

CHONBURI — 4 June 2026, the official Twitter account of Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo has photographs of “Nong Yan”, the clouded leopard that inspired its official logo. According to the zoo, the image of a clouded leopard set against a tropical rainforest backdrop reflects the biodiversity and ecological richness of Southeast Asia’s forests, the species’ natural habitat.

The clouded leopard, a rare wild cat native to Southeast Asia’s tropical forests, has become a symbol of conservation success at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, with the zoo’s decades-long breeding programme earning international recognition and helping raise Thailand’s profile in global wildlife conservation efforts.

For more than 30 years, Khao Kheow Open Zoo, under the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under Royal Patronage, has continuously developed expertise in clouded leopard conservation and captive breeding. The programme is now recognised as one of the world’s leading centres for clouded leopard management through cooperation with the Clouded Leopard Consortium and international partners, including the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Nashville Zoo, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and the Species Survival Plan.

The achievement is particularly significant because clouded leopards are among the most difficult wild cat species to breed in captivity. The animals are highly sensitive to stress and require carefully managed breeding pairs.

Through years of research and the development of specialised animal husbandry techniques, Khao Kheow Open Zoo has successfully bred multiple generations of clouded leopards. The programme has played a key role in increasing captive populations and maintaining genetic diversity within global conservation initiatives.

Beyond breeding efforts, the clouded leopard serves as an important ambassador for wildlife conservation, helping raise public awareness of Thailand’s forest biodiversity and the importance of protecting endangered species and ecosystems.

Knowledge gained from the programme has also contributed to conservation planning and efforts to restore clouded leopard populations in the wild, a long-term objective of modern wildlife conservation.

Researchers and veterinarians involved in the project say conservation programmes continue to face challenges from climate change, ageing animal populations and concerns over maintaining sufficient genetic diversity. As a result, work is continuing on reproductive technologies, scientific research and animal welfare standards to support future conservation efforts.

Moreover, the zoo is also home to another clouded leopard, a nine-year-old animal named “Nong Nueng”, which remains one of the zoo’s most recognisable residents.

Heavy rain strands 18 tourists before rescue in forest

By

Khaosod English

-

4 June 2026, 12:03

Heavy rain strands 18 tourists before rescue in forest

MAE HONG SON — 4 June 2026, Authorities in northern Thailand rescued a group of 18 tourists after they became stranded in a forest following heavy rainfall that triggered a flash flood, officials said.

The rescue operation began late on 3 June, when members of the Mae Sariang Territorial Defence Volunteers and officials from Mae Sariang National Park responded to reports that a group of tourists had become trapped near Doi Lak Saen in Mae Hong Son province.

Heavy rain in the area caused a sudden surge in water levels in Huai Pu Stream, preventing the group from continuing on foot or crossing the waterway. The tourists sent their location coordinates to authorities, enabling rescuers to pinpoint their position.

Officials subsequently located the group and escorted them to safety. Authorities said all tourists were unharmed.

The rescued visitors were taken to the Mae Sariang Immigration Checkpoint for preliminary checks before being allowed to continue their journeys home.

Mae Sariang District Chief Worraphak Phanthong urged residents and tourists to exercise caution when travelling in forested areas during the rainy season.

He warned that heavy rainfall and flash floods could quickly make routes impassable and leave travellers stranded. He advised visitors to familiarise themselves with entry and exit routes before entering forests and to ensure their mobile phones are fully charged, with backup power sources available in case of emergencies.

Thai taxi driver returns lost 300k baht to Sri Lankan tourist

By

Khaosod English

-

4 June 2026, 10:42

Thai taxi driver returns lost 300k baht to Sri Lankan tourist

BANGKOK — 3 June 2026, A Thai taxi driver returned more than 300,000 baht (€8,500) in cash to a Sri Lankan tourist after finding a bag left behind in his vehicle, saying it never crossed his mind to keep a passenger’s belongings.

The handover took place at FM91 Trafficpro Radio Station in Bangkok, where station representatives witnessed the return of the lost property to its owner.

The incident began at 08:37 on 2 June when taxi driver Pathapee Yamsano, 50, from Samut Prakan province, contacted FM91 after discovering a black shoulder bag left in his green-and-yellow taxi.

The bag contained €8,500 in cash, worth about 322,000 baht, a pair of white Tommy Hilfiger trainers and a room key.

Pathapee said he had picked up the passenger from Suvarnabhumi Airport and dropped him off in Silom Soi 19 at about 08:10.

“I was shocked when I saw the amount of money inside and wanted to return it immediately,” Pathapee said. “Keeping it would only create problems because I would have to find the owner. The money was not mine.”

He said he had previously returned lost mobile phones and smaller amounts of cash, but in this case he did not know who the bag belonged to because it had been left on a storage shelf behind the rear seat.

“At least this shows that taxi drivers like us do not think about taking passengers’ belongings. If we find something, we return it,” he said.

FM91 later broadcast an appeal to locate the owner, while staff at the tourist’s accommodation also contacted the station to report the missing bag.

The owner was later identified as Sri Lankan tourist Mohammed Aashif, who arrived at the station accompanied by Mohammed Onaiz to collect the belongings.

Aashif said he had accidentally left the bag behind after feeling tired and sleepy during the journey from the airport.

“When I arrived at my accommodation, I realised I had left the bag in the taxi,” he said. “I reported it to the police and waited at the building, but I could not even enter my room because the key was inside the bag.”

He expressed gratitude to the driver and FM91 for helping recover the property.

“I am very grateful that the driver found the money and returned it,” he said. “I would like to thank him and FM91 for coordinating its return.”

Aashif also presented the driver with a cash reward as a token of appreciation.

Search enters third day for missing hiker in Trang

By

Khaosod English

-

4 June 2026, 10:38

Search enters third day for missing hiker in Trang

TRANG — 3 June 2026, Hundreds of rescuers have joined the search for a 53-year-old woman from Nonthaburi who went missing while trekking the Khao Chet Yot trail in the Khao Banthat Wildlife Sanctuary since Monday, amid hopes of finding her safe.

On Wednesday, reporters disclosed that at the Nhan Satoh Mini Waterfall in Moo 15, Palian Sub-district, Palian District, Trang Province, Panet Uthairangsi, District Chief of Palian, has established and taken command of a 24-hour emergency operations centre to coordinate search efforts for a female tourist, identified as Wantanee, from Nonthaburi Province. She had been hiking with a group of friends along the Khao Chet Yot trail in the Khao Banthat Wildlife Sanctuary but became separated and disappeared on Monday near the border between Phatthalung and Trang provinces.

According to initial reports, the group of 10 tourists had gathered and travelled from Bangkok by van. They had arranged their entry permits for the Khao Banthat Wildlife Sanctuary through a tour operator in Phatthalung province and secured two local guides. The group entered the forest at Phraiwan Waterfall in Kong Ra district, Phatthalung, on Saturday and camped overnight above the waterfall. They continued to the summit of Khao Chet Yot on Sunday morning, where they spent a second night. At the time, two other trekking groups, comprising around 20 people and four local guides, were also staying in the same area.

Subsequently, on Monday morning, the scheduled date and time to descend from the peak, at about 09:00, the missing female tourist had finished packing her belongings before the rest of the group and decided to set off alone in advance, despite her group members asking to travel with the others together. Because she had experience hiking the Khao Chet Yot trek several times previously. However, when the rest of the group arrived at the designated meeting point at the Nhan Satoh Mini Waterfall, they discovered that she was nowhere to be found. Officials and guides then retraced the route and searched nearby areas while calling out for her, but found no traces or response whatsoever.

Wednesday’s search operations began at 09:00 with over 51 forestry and administrative officers joining local villagers familiar with the terrain, bringing the total number of search personnel to more than 100. Teams have been divided into six groups and deployed across different zones. They have intensified the search for the missing tourist by spreading out to inspect along the 12-kilometre Khao Chet Yot trekking route starting from the Nhan Satoh Mini Waterfall.

Local guide, Charoenchai Chuaychu, revealed he had received all trekking groups and handed them over to local guides in the area. He stated that the team conducts daily safety briefings before entering the trail, but the missing tourist had chosen to leave ahead of the group. By the time the remaining members reached the assembly point, she failed to show up. As heavy rainfall and flash flooding in some mountainous areas had created significant obstacles, wiping out potential tracks, making search efforts significantly more difficult. Currently, 40 experienced forest hunters from both Phatthalung and Trang provinces have been brought in, joining a total force of over 100 personnel to assist in the operation.

Chop Rongdet, chief of the Ton Tae Waterfall Forest Protection Unit and head of Protected Area Management Center 5 in Trang, said some search teams had spent seven to eight hours combing the mountain before returning to base at around 18:00. Initial reports indicate that no traces or clues of the missing woman had yet been found and that teams would continue rotating through the search areas until further notice.

The Khao Chet Yot trail is a well-known nature trek among tourists that typically takes three days and two nights to complete, beginning in Phatthalung province and ending in Trang. Visitors are required to obtain permission from the Khao Banthat Wildlife Sanctuary and travel with at least two guides. The hiring of porters is optional.

DITP wraps up Thai SELECT network program to boost thai food exports

By

Mc Marketing

-

4 June 2026, 10:00

The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, has successfully concluded the Thai SELECT Restaurant Capacity-Building and Networking Program. The initiative focused on building networks, forging trade partnerships, and integrating Thai restaurant operators from across the globe directly into Thailand’s manufacturing supply chain. This strategic move aims to expand the export of Thai ingredients and food products internationally, elevate the standards of Thai restaurants overseas, and sustainably drive export value through soft power.

Mr. Surinthorn Sunthornsanan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, revealed during the closing ceremony that a key achievement of this year’s program was how the 15 participants from 6 regions worldwide exchanged knowledge to create economic value through diverse activities. These included brainstorming sessions and concrete business matching at THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026, which allowed overseas operators to connect directly with manufacturers—a crucial step that will reduce costs and continuously expand Thailand’s export value. Furthermore, cultural learning experiences and direct insights shared by experts in the Thai culinary scene reflected everyone’s shared mission to preserve, promote, and maintain the authentic standards of Thai cuisine for international recognition.

“Thai food is not merely popular worldwide; it is a powerful branding tool for Thailand, a cultural identity, and a vital engine driving the country’s economy. The Thai SELECT certificate is an important tool of the Ministry of Commerce to build confidence in Thai taste and international quality. DITP is committed to ensuring that authentic Thai flavors, quality, and cultural heritage grow sustainably on the global stage. These Thai SELECT restaurateurs are not just business owners; they are ‘cultural ambassadors’ who share the charm and value of Thai cuisine with consumers worldwide.”

Participating Thai SELECT restaurant entrepreneurs, including WOKXPRESS (Denmark), THAI SQUARE GROUP (UK), KRAPPOM (South Korea), IT’S THAI (China), TÓA 66 (India), and CHAO PHRAYA THAI FINE CUISINE (Indonesia) overwhelmingly agreed on the program’s benefits. They expressed immense impression with the experience, appreciating the opportunity to network with fellow Thai restaurateurs. Connecting directly with suppliers capable of exporting authentic Thai ingredients and seasonings has boosted their confidence in future branch expansions.

Additionally, tasting regional dishes and traditional Thai desserts provided fresh inspiration for creating new menus to attract customers. The experience also reinforced a core restaurant management philosophy: maintaining “authentic, traditional Thai taste” remains the primary selling point and the heart of success for Thai restaurants abroad.

“The success of the Thai SELECT Restaurant Capacity-Building and Networking Program serves as one of the mechanisms to build the Thai SELECT community, reflecting the Department’s commitment to expanding the awareness and enhancing the image of Thailand as the origin of world-class, quality Thai food. Currently, there are 1,419 certified Thai SELECT restaurants in 70 countries worldwide (as of May 2026). This program serves as a vital catalyst for operators to utilize the knowledge and opportunities gained to scale their businesses, maintain global Thai culinary standards, and strengthen as well as add value to the export sector of the Thai food industry.” Mr. Surinthorn concluded.

Pokémon RUN 30 to Make Thailand Debut in January 2027

By

Khaosod English

-

3 June 2026, 17:29

Pokémon RUN 30 to Make Thailand Debut in January 2027

BANGKOK — 3 June 2026, Pokémon fans in Thailand will have the chance to take part in Pokémon RUN 30 when the regional running event arrives in the country on 9-10 January 2027, organisers announced as part of an official Asia tour schedule.

The venue for the Thailand event has not yet been disclosed.

Pokémon RUN 30 combines recreational running with activities inspired by the Pokémon franchise. Participants can complete challenges linked to Pokémon GO, while gaining access to event-exclusive missions and in-game bonuses available only to attendees.

The Asia schedule includes stops in several markets before reaching Thailand:

Philippines: 3-4 October 2026, SM Mall of Asia
Taiwan: 17-18 October 2026, Taichung Central Park
Taiwan: 31 October-1 November 2026, Dream Mall, Kaohsiung
Singapore: 7-8 November 2026, The Kallang
Taiwan: 14-15 November 2026, New Taipei Metropolitan Park
Indonesia: 12-13 December 2026, Gelora Bung Karno (GBK), Jakarta
Thailand: 9-10 January 2027, venue to be announced
Hong Kong: 23-24 January 2027, Hong Kong Science Park

Players of Pokémon GO will encounter Pokémon and collect in-game items along the running route. Organisers are also expected to offer exclusive Pokémon merchandise and collectibles, similar to products sold at previous large-scale Pokémon events in other countries.

All registered participants will receive a package of event-exclusive items, including a Pokémon RUN 30 T-shirt, a drawstring bag, a Poké Ball-themed armband, a Pokédex exploration booklet, a Pokémon Trading Card Game booster pack, and a race bib.

Participants will also receive a lenticular 3D card themed around one of the three original starter Pokémon types, Bulbasaur (Grass), Charmander (Fire), or Squirtle (Water), with entrants able to select their preferred type.

The registration package will also include a shoulder-mounted Pikachu plush, while certain ticket packages will come with additional exclusive items.

Thai PM Rejects Concerns Over Recent Border Tensions

By

Khaosod English

-

3 June 2026, 17:14

Thai PM Rejects Concerns Over Recent Border Tensions

BANGKOK — 3 June 2026, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urged the public not to worry about recent provocations along the Thai-Cambodian border, saying the situation remained under control and security forces were fully capable of safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity.

Speaking at the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters at 14:40, Anutin said residents could continue their daily lives as normal despite an incident reported on 2 June in the Chong Bok area of Nam Yuen district in Ubon Ratchathani province.

“The security agencies and the military have confirmed that they will fully protect Thailand’s borders,” he said. “Any future negotiations should proceed through the Foreign Ministry’s established channels.”

Anutin said the government had carefully considered and assessed the situation before making decisions, including the cancellation of the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding, commonly known as MOU 44. He said all government actions were intended to strengthen Thailand and protect the interests of its people.

Asked about continuing incidents of provocation along the border, Anutin said such actions occurred regularly.

“That is why they are called provocations,” he said. “We must remain patient. We are in a stronger position, so we must stay calm and show restraint.”

He praised Thai military personnel for exercising patience in response to the incidents, adding that Thailand had never been the side initiating provocations.

When questioned about concerns among residents living near the border, Anutin dismissed fears and said conditions were significantly more peaceful than during the same period a year earlier.

“There is nothing to worry about,” he said. “Compared with last year, the border situation is much calmer.”

He added that no major security concerns had arisen since a ceasefire agreement was signed on 28 December 2025.

Anutin also brushed aside allegations made by Wasawat Puangphonsri, leader of the Thai Ruam Palang Party, who claimed that a casino near the Chong Sa-ngam border crossing was linked to Thai politicians.

“I do not pay attention to every claim made by every individual,” Anutin said. “The government has its own intelligence network and border protection plans.”

He said Thailand’s military remained well-equipped and fully prepared, adding that security operations against cross-border scam networks had resulted in arrests, deportations and asset seizures worth between 30 billion and 40 billion baht under the current administration.

Asked whether authorities should investigate the allegations involving politicians, Anutin said the matter was the responsibility of police, security agencies and intelligence services.

“They have far greater capabilities than people who go online and livestream,” he said. “People dealing with real security matters do not livestream them.”

He criticised individuals who broadcast allegations online, describing them as disruptive and potentially harmful to society.

When asked whether such activities were aimed at attracting viewers, Anutin laughed and replied: “I do not know about them.”

He then joked that those involved “should be sent to Srithanya Hospital,” referring to Thailand’s best-known psychiatric hospital.

Customs seize 2 million baht worth of One Piece trading cards

By

Khaosod English

-

3 June 2026, 16:41

Customs seize 2 million baht worth of One Piece trading cards

SONGKHLA — 31 May 2026, Thailand’s Customs Department has seized 30 boxes of One Piece OP-16 trading cards, valued at more than 2 million baht, after they were found abandoned near the Sadao border checkpoint, officials said.

Officers from Sadao Customs House were conducting surveillance and inspections for customs violations within the checkpoint’s area of responsibility.

While inspecting the arrivals section of the Sadao border crossing, customs officials noticed several cardboard boxes placed near a gate and moved in to investigate.

The inspection revealed 30 boxes of One Piece OP-16 game cards. No individual came forward to claim ownership or possession of the goods.

Customs authorities said the case involved the importation of goods into Thailand without completing customs clearance procedures, in violation of the Customs Act 2017 and other relevant laws.

The entire shipment was seized as evidence and transferred to Sadao Customs House for legal proceedings. Officials said further action would be taken in accordance with the law.

Meth-positive suspect arrested after gun scare

By

Khaosod English

-

3 June 2026, 16:05

Meth-positive suspect arrested after gun scare

NAKHON SI THAMMARAT — 3 June 2026, Police in southern Thailand have arrested a man who allegedly fled a rehabilitation centre, committed theft and later terrorised residents by carrying a shotgun and firing warning shots in a village.

Police identified the suspect as Atthawit Thongsong, who had reportedly escaped from a treatment and rehabilitation facility operated by the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Volunteer Defence Corps.

According to police, the suspect was known for erratic behaviour and had recently been linked to thefts in the area.

Residents reported seeing him riding a motorcycle through villages in Chulabhorn district while carrying a long-barrelled firearm. Witnesses said he fired shots into the air, causing fear among local residents.

Police launched a manhunt after receiving reports of the armed suspect.

Officers later spotted him riding a motorcycle along the Ao Sri Muang road in Na Mo Bun subdistrict and attempted to make an arrest. However, the suspect abandoned the motorcycle and fled on foot while carrying the weapon.

Investigators later learned he was hiding in a house in Moo 3 of Na Mo Bun subdistrict. Police surrounded the property and took him into custody without further incident.

Authorities seized a shotgun and one round of ammunition.

The suspect was taken to Chulabhorn Police Station, where a drug test allegedly returned positive for methamphetamine use.

Police charged him with:

Illegal possession of a firearm
Carrying a firearm in a public place without authorisation
Using a Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine)

He was handed over to investigators for further legal proceedings.

Hot News

LATEST NEWS