Police discover a Russian suspect in the back seat of the suspected vehicle at Koh Samui pier on August 28, 2025.
KOH SAMUI — A Russian fugitive wanted for a cryptocurrency robbery in Phuket was apprehended by police at Koh Samui ferry terminal after attempting to flee the island by car on Thursday.
Police from multiple units in Koh Samui, Surat Thani Province, collaborated with officers from Chalong Police Station in Phuket and the Technology Crime Investigation Division 5 to arrest the suspect under a Phuket Provincial Court warrant for robbery charges.
Acting on intelligence that the suspect had fled to Koh Samui via the 11:00 a.m. ferry service in a gray sedan with Prachinburi license plates, officers set up surveillance at the ferry terminal.
Dramatic Arrest at Ferry Terminal
At 12:50 p.m., on August 28 the arrest team positioned themselves at the ferry terminal in Lipa Noi Subdistrict, Koh Samui, where they spotted the suspicious vehicle. Officers observed a foreign man driving with no visible passengers, prompting them to stop the car for inspection. During the search, they discovered another foreign man hiding in the back seat.
The driver was identified as Gleb, a Russian national, while the man concealed in the back seat was Dmitri, 26, also Russian, who matched the description in the August 27 arrest warrant for robbery. Police found a vehicle ferry ticket from Don Sak to Samui but no passenger tickets.
Police arrest a Russian suspect for robbery at the Koh Samui ferry terminal on August 28, 2025.
Officers presented the Phuket Provincial Court arrest warrant with an interpreter present, but Dmitri refused to provide any statement during the arrest. He was subsequently transferred to investigating officers at Chalong Police Station in Phuket.
Elaborate Cryptocurrency Scam
Immigration records revealed that Dmitri had entered and exited Thailand seven times, most recently arriving through Phuket Airport on August 15. According to the investigation, he had arranged a phone meeting with the victim, Mr. Alexander, also Russian, inviting him to a house in Phuket for a business investment consultation.
When Alexander arrived at the designated location, he found not Dmitri but a group of four Russians who assaulted him and forced him to transfer 35,000 USDT (approximately 1.3 million baht) through the TRONSCAN application. After the robbery, the perpetrators released the victim and fled the country, leaving only Dmitri behind.
While his accomplices escaped abroad, Dmitri enlisted a Russian friend on Koh Samui to help him flee. However, his escape attempt ultimately failed when police tracked him down at the ferry terminal.
A screenshot from a viral social media video shows a 13-year-old Cambodian student tearfully embracing his teacher as police detained him at his school in Surin Province on August 27, 2025.
BANGKOK — A 13-year-old Cambodian boy was saved from deportation after being arrested at his school in Surin Province following reports that he and his mother were illegal immigrants.
The first crucial intervention came from his teacher’s video and message posted on social media on August 28, showing the student tearfully embracing his teacher. The post described how the straight-A student, known for his good behavior, was arrested after a flag ceremony while still in his Boy Scout uniform and detained for deportation to Cambodia—a country he barely knows.
The heartbreaking footage, combined with the teacher’s plea for compassion, sparked public sympathy, though many insisted on strict adherence to immigration law without exceptions, while others made racially divisive comments.
“The person who reported this can sleep well at night. Look at what you’ve done to this 13-year-old child. You’re tearing him away from his family here, from his friends, from his teachers. Stop this witch hunt,” the teacher wrote.
The 13-year-old Cambodian student holds deportation documents at the Immigration Office on August 27, 2025.
School Director Defends Student
Kachaporn Chumphet, the school director, emphasized their care for the student: “This boy is our student, our child. We love him. We’re speaking as teachers, as surrogate parents who care for him. We’re not discussing the law here.”
“We acknowledge he entered illegally, but this child came when he was small, at age 3, brought by his mother who said his stepfather was Thai. He had all the proper documentation when he enrolled.”
She noted that government policy ensures all children in Thailand have access to education, and the school followed proper procedures in admitting him.
Rights Groups and Officials Intervene
Human rights advocates and academics joined the campaign, arguing that police actions violated international law and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, particularly arresting a child without a warrant or cause for flight risk.
Multiple government ministries—Interior, Education, and Social Development and Human Security—intervened to help the child and mother, eventually bringing them back to Surin Province.
The female director of Buached School in Surin Province (center) and other teachers travel to meet with officials at the Surin Immigration Office to find ways to help their Cambodian student on August 28, 2025.
Government Response
Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, acting as caretaker PM, ordered immediate coordination after learning of the case Thursday morning. “The footage was heartbreaking for all the teachers who have watched this child grow up in Thailand’s education system,” he said. “This case should find the best solution, balancing legal requirements with humanitarian considerations on a case-by-case basis.”
Education Minister Nareumol Pinyosinwat added: “As a mother and former teacher, I understand the teacher’s anguish. We must distinguish between border conflicts and humanitarian issues.”
Police Explanation
Police Colonel Sarawut Srividunsakdi of Buached Police Station explained that officers were responding to complaints about illegal immigrants in the area. After finding no proper entry documentation, they charged the pair with illegal entry but acknowledged the difficult circumstances.
With government intervention, police brought the mother and child back from Sa Kaeo Province to Surin, where they now stay at a family shelter while immigration officials and social workers arrange proper legal status.
An immigration official negotiates with the Cambodian mother and Thai stepfather of the Cambodian student at their residence in Buached District, Surin Province on August 27, 2025.
Teacher’s Reflection
Sophon Chongboriboon, the teacher who posted the viral message, said: “I understand everyone loves their country—I do too. I posted from a teacher’s perspective, seeing our student in his Scout uniform having to change clothes to be deported to a country where he can’t read or write the language.
“I felt sorry and couldn’t sleep, so I posted a little something. I didn’t expect it to become such a social phenomenon, but at least it serves as a case study for other similar situations, which I believe are numerous.”
The case highlights the complex intersection of immigration enforcement and humanitarian concerns for children who have spent most of their lives in Thailand.
The Department of Corrections deployed well-behaved prisoners to clear drainage pipes in flood-affected areas on August 21, 2024.
BANGKOK — Key government ministers on Thursday defended controversial plans to address Thailand’s labor shortage by recruiting workers from refugee camps, soon-to-be-discharged soldiers, and well-behaved prisoners, saying the initiatives reflect long-standing humanitarian policies rather than desperate measures.
Military Conscripts Program
Labor Minister Pongkwin Juangroongruangkit clarified the military personnel initiative, emphasizing that only soldiers awaiting discharge—not active-duty personnel—would participate. During their transition period, these individuals can voluntarily complete vocational training programs, ensuring they have viable career prospects upon discharge and reducing unemployment risks.
“The Ministry of Labor deeply appreciates the service of those who have sacrificed to protect our nation,” Pongkwin stated. “We are committed to ensuring they secure immediate employment opportunities as they transition to civilian life.”
Prisoner Rehabilitation Program
The ministry has long advocated for work opportunities for well-behaved inmates approaching release dates. This humanitarian policy aims to facilitate successful reintegration into society while enabling former inmates to support their families and contribute skilled labor to the economy.
“Skills development shouldn’t be restricted to traditional worker categories,” Pongkwin explained. “Disadvantaged groups, including prisoners preparing for release, deserve opportunities to become productive workers who contribute positively to society rather than remaining burdens. We must give reformed individuals a chance to rebuild their lives through honest work.”
Refugee Employment Initiative
Deputy Interior Minister Teerarat Samretwanit highlighted that the Cabinet’s August 26 decision to allow migrants in temporary shelters to work reflects Thailand’s established humanitarian principles while strengthening industries facing acute labor shortages.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) praised this initiative, recognizing that enabling refugees to utilize their potential serves both humanitarian goals and strategic economic interests by boosting local economies, creating jobs, and enhancing long-term economic resilience.
Deputy Interior Minister Teerarat Samretwanit
Current Refugee Population and Potential
More than 77,000 displaced persons from Myanmar currently reside in nine emergency shelters across Mae Hong Son, Tak, Kanchanaburi, and Ratchaburi provinces. Of these, over 42,000 are of working age, representing a substantial potential workforce.
Implementation Framework
Under the new regulations, refugees must navigate a rigorous approval process before entering the legal workforce. The government has established multiple checkpoints to ensure compliance and prevent abuse of the system.
Status verification by the Provincial Administration Department
Permission to leave temporary accommodation
Mandatory health examinations and insurance coverage
Work permit application through the Ministry of Labor
Work permits remain valid for up to one year and allow employment with any employer not restricted from hiring foreign workers, ensuring the program doesn’t disadvantage Thai job seekers.
Economic and Social Benefits
This multi-faceted approach delivers significant advantages beyond addressing immediate labor shortages. The initiative reduces long-term state financial burdens for refugee support while providing voluntary workforce solutions for industries experiencing critical shortages.
The government expects additional benefits including decreased dependence on humanitarian aid, enhanced border stability, reduced human trafficking and labor exploitation, improved workplace health standards, and greater economic resilience through workforce diversification.
The comprehensive strategy demonstrates Thailand’s commitment to balancing humanitarian responsibilities with practical economic solutions during challenging regional circumstances.
People stand next to a stuck car in the aftermath of flash floods at the banks of Tawi river in Jammu, India, Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Channi Anand)
NEW DELHI (AP) — Intense rains have left at least 34 people dead after lashing parts of Pakistan and India and triggering flash floods and landslides in Indian-controlled Kashmir, officials said Wednesday.
Over 210,000 people in Pakistan have been displaced, and the shrine of the founder of the Sikh religion has been submerged.
Heavy downpours and flash floods in the Himalayan region have killed nearly 100 people in August, with forecasters warning rain will continue across the region this week.
Part of a mountainside in Indian-controlled Kashmir’s Jammu region collapsed onto a popular Hindu pilgrimage route following heavy rains in the Katra area late Tuesday. Devotees had been trekking to reach the hilltop temple, which is one of the most visited shrines in northern India, officials said.
A rescue worker helps villagers evacuated from a flooded area of Chango Walia village, in Narowal district, Pakistan, Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)
The bodies of pilgrims were recovered from under the debris, according to disaster management official Mohammed Irshad, who said at least 18 other people were injured and transported to hospitals.
Rescue teams scoured the area Wednesday for the missing, while pilgrimages to the shrine have been suspended, Irshad said.
Authorities in Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province on Wednesday called for army assistance in rescue and relief efforts after torrential rains caused major rivers to swell, inundating villages and displacing over 210,000 people, according to Lt. Gen. Inam Haider, chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority.
Haider said rescue operations were continuing, with relief supplies being rushed to flood-hit areas.
Army spokesman Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif said two soldiers were killed while helping flood victims. He gave no further details.
Floods also submerged the shrine of Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion, which is located near the Indian border in Narowal district.
Late Wednesday, authorities carried out a controlled breach of a protective embankment on the Chenab river in Punjab to protect a barrage from collapse under extreme flood pressure. Local officials said explosives were used to open the right marginal dyke, diverting water into nearby villages, where hundreds of people sitting on higher grounds under the open sky and watching floodwaters submerge their homes.
The Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, a shrine of Guru Nanak Dev, is submerged after torrential rains, in Kartarpur, in Narowal district, Pakistan, Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Jahan Zab)
Rescuers evacuated more than 20,000 people overnight from the outskirts of Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city, which faced the risk of flooding, as the Ravi river continued to rise. Those evacuated were living along the bed of the river, said Irfan Ali Kathia, director-general of the Punjab Disaster Management Authority.
Mass evacuations began earlier this week in six districts of Punjab after heavier-than-normal monsoon rains and the release of water from overflowing dams in neighboring India triggered flash floods in low-lying border regions, Kathia said.
Kathia warned floodwaters in the Ravi, Chenab and Sutlej rivers were rising dangerously and many villages were inundated in Kasur, Okara, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Vehari and Sialkot districts.
Rescuers with sniffer dogs continue to search for more than 150 people who have been reported missing this month after flooding killed over 300 residents in three villages in Pakistan’s northwestern Buner district.
Floods have killed more than 800 people in Pakistan since late June.
Scientists say climate change is fueling heavier monsoon rains in South Asia, raising fears of a repeat of a 2022 weather disaster that struck a third of Pakistan and killed 1,739 people. Haider said next year’s monsoon could be 22% more intense due to climate change.
India alerted Pakistan on Monday about possible cross-border flooding due to the heavy monsoon rains, in what marked the first public official contact between the two nuclear-armed rivals in months.
BANGKOK, Thailand – 21 August 2025 – Two culinary masters unite this September as Chef Ian Kittichai partners with Michelin-starred French Chef Hervé Rodriguez for an exclusive three-night collaboration at Bangkok’s Khum Hom restaurant at Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok.
The collaboration pairs Chef Hervé’s avant-garde French techniques with Chef Ian’s mastery of traditional Thai flavours, creating dishes that honour both culinary traditions. The collaboration marks the latest chapter in Khum Hom’s ongoing series of exceptional dining experiences throughout the year. Chef Hervé’ earned his Michelin star within six months of launching his restaurant MaSa in Boulogne-Billancourt, underscoring the mastery of his avant-garde techniques and flavour harmonisation. Originally from France’s Burgundy region, he relocated to Vietnam to explore local flavours and traditions while sharing his expertise with an international clientele.
The seven- and nine-course menus showcase a culinary dialogue through dishes such as Chef Hervé’s Blue Crab with salicorne and tofu marshmallows, paired with Chef Ian’s Raerai Na Kang Kradan—traditional fresh rice vermicelli with flathead lobster served with coconut relish. Further highlights include Chef Ian’s Isan-style grilled duck breast with mulberry jaew and a spicy Thai fruit salad, followed by Chef Hervé’s Wagyu Beef “Leaf to Leaf à La Bourguignonne” with spicy Boulangère potatoes millefeuille and coconut. The experience concludes with Chef Hervé’s signature Chocolate Glenmorangie featuring smoked chocolate mousse, eucalyptus, and whisky ice cream.Guests may choose between seven-course and nine-course tasting menus. Wine pairing options are available to complement each course. Dinner service begins at 6.30 pm each evening from 8-10 September 2025.
Reservations and Information: Phone: +66 2 666 3311 Online: www.khumhomrestaurant.com Dates: 8-10 September 2025Time: Dinner service from 6.30 pm Pricing: 7-course set menu THB 5,200++ per person | 9-course set menu THB 5,800++ per person (Optional fine wine pairings are available). Accor Plus members receive 20% off this exclusive experience, while ALL Accor Live Limitless members earn dining rewards points.
Thailand Electronics Circuit Asia (THECA) 2025, held from 20–22 August 2025 at BITEC, Bangkok, concluded with outstanding results, reinforcing Thailand’s emergence as a regional hub for printed circuit boards (PCB), PCB Assembly (PCBA), electronics manufacturing services (EMS), semiconductors, and advanced electronics.
Organized with the support of the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), the Thailand Printed Circuit Association (THPCA), and the Hong Kong Printed Circuit Association (HKPCA), THECA 2025 welcomed a total of 6,769 trade visitors from 43 countries. Of these, 77% were domestic visitors while 23% represented international markets, with the top participating countries including Thailand, China, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, South Korea, and the United States.
Thailand Electronics Circuit Asia (THECA) 2025 brought together the global electronics community with remarkable success. The exhibition featured 250 leading companies, showcasing the latest innovations and solutions across the entire electronics manufacturing value chain.
Over three days, THECA hosted an extensive program of more than 46 conference sessions, convening policymakers, manufacturers, researchers, and supply chain experts to exchange insights and address industry priorities. Key focus areas included:
BOI Forum: Thailand’s Opportunity in Semiconductors and Advanced Electronics
Advancements in PCB, PCBA, and EMS Technology Adoption
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Standards
Digital Transformation in Manufacturing
Workforce Development for the Electronics Sector
With its combination of exhibition, knowledge-sharing, and networking opportunities, THECA 2025 reinforced Thailand’s strategic position as a regional hub for advanced electronics, semiconductor innovation, and sustainable manufacturing growth.
In addition to exhibition and conference activities, THECA 2025 delivered impactful business outcomes through its tailored business matching program. A total of 505 business matching meetings were conducted, connecting industry leaders, buyers, and investors to explore strategic partnerships and investment opportunities.
Following the success of this year’s edition, the organizers are pleased to announce that THECA 2026 will take place from 26–28 August 2026 at BITEC Halls 98–99, Bangkok. The next edition will feature an expanded platform under the theme “Power 2 Motion”, focusing on technologies driving the future of electronics, power systems, and automation.
For companies interested in exhibiting at THECA 2026, booth packages and partnership opportunities are now available. For inquiries, please contact: Sureerat Songnuy, [email protected] or Arphaphorn Chantachon, [email protected]
Prime Minister and Culture Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra chairs the 3rd National Culture Committee meeting at the Ministry of Culture on August 27, 2025. (KHAOSOD PHOTO/Chavalit Panyong)
BANGKOK — Thailand’s ruling Pheu Thai Party is preparing for a potential leadership transition as suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra awaits a crucial Constitutional Court ruling that will determine whether she can resume office or must step down permanently.
Just two days before learning her political fate, Paetongtarn maintained her public duties on Wednesday, chairing a National Culture Committee meeting in her capacity as Culture Minister. The case stems from leaked audio recordings of her conversations with Cambodian leader Hun Sen that surfaced publicly on June 18, leading to her suspension from the prime ministerial role on July 1.
Party Rallies Behind Embattled Leader
Despite mounting pressure, Paetongtarn has remained largely silent, responding to reporters’ persistent questions with only smiles. Her restraint appears strategic—PM Secretary-General Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej explained that her decision to participate in recent Cabinet meetings via teleconference was specifically to avoid media interactions that might prejudice the ongoing legal proceedings.
The August 26 Cabinet meeting demonstrated the government’s unity, with Acting PM Phumtham Wechayachai representing the Cabinet in offering encouragement and expressing hopes for a favorable verdict on August 29. Paetongtarn responded with gratitude, saying she “hopes to return to work.”
Prime Minister and Culture Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra smiles at reporters without answering any questions while arriving to chair the 3rd National Culture Committee meeting at the Ministry of Culture on August 27, 2025.
Historical Pattern of Judicial Removals
The stakes are particularly high given Pheu Thai’s troubled history with the courts. Four previous prime ministers from the party—including those serving under different party names—have been removed from office by judicial decisions. Most notably, this includes Paetongtarn’s aunt Yingluck Shinawatra and, just last year, Srettha Thavisin, creating a pattern that weighs heavily on the current proceedings.
Misinformation Campaign Targets Courts
The political tension has been exacerbated by a sophisticated disinformation campaign. Manipulated audio clips surfaced online using artificial intelligence to alter recordings from Constitutional Court judges during Paetongtarn’s August 21 hearing. The doctored audio changed an innocuous “please sit down” to the more demeaning “sit down, child,” which spread rapidly across social media platforms.
The Constitutional Court responded decisively on August 25, announcing legal action against those who created and distributed the manipulated content, citing violations of the Computer Crime Act and contempt of court.
File Photo: Thailand’s Constitutional Court in Bangkok
PM Secretary-General Prommin condemned the tactics, stating that “some Thai groups use fake news to create internal conflict and weakness, even crossing lines with the courts, prioritizing political interests over national interests—this is the real enemy of the Thai people.”
Backup Plan in Motion
Anticipating a potential adverse ruling, Pheu Thai has already identified its contingency plan. Party spokesperson Danuporn Punnakanta confirmed that while the party will respect the Constitutional Court’s decision and continue supporting Paetongtarn, they are prepared to nominate their third prime ministerial candidate if necessary.
That candidate is 76-year-old Chaikasem Nitisiri, a seasoned political veteran who previously served as Justice Minister and Attorney General. Despite his age, Chaikasem has expressed confidence in his ability to lead, emphasizing that the prime ministerial role “doesn’t require extraordinary qualities” and that governance “follows its natural course.”
Chaikasem Nitisiri
In a revealing interview, Chaikasem outlined his independent approach: “Whatever I’m asked to do, I must use my knowledge and judgment. I can’t be ordered around. If instructions benefit the nation and are correct, fine. But if they’re forced and don’t benefit the country, I can’t do them blindly—that’s my nature.”
Precarious Parliamentary Mathematics
The government’s vulnerability extends beyond the court case to the parliamentary arithmetic. The 11-party ruling coalition controls just 253 seats against the opposition’s 239 seats—a razor-thin margin that has already caused several parliamentary sessions to collapse due to insufficient attendance.
Rumors persist about potential vote-buying efforts to flip coalition partners, though Deputy PM Secretary-General for Political Affairs Somkid Chueakong has dismissed such speculation, arguing the opposition lacks sufficient votes for a successful challenge.
FILE PHOTO – From left: Pheu Thai Party member Chonlanan Srikaew, Srettha Thavisin, Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Chaikasem Nitisiri board a campaign vehicle during the 2023 election campaign.
Critical Timing for National Challenges
The political uncertainty comes at a particularly challenging moment for Thailand. The country faces ongoing tensions with Cambodia that, despite ceasefire agreements, continue to affect border communities and impact the national economy. A prolonged leadership transition could hamper the government’s ability to address these pressing issues effectively.
If Paetongtarn cannot continue in office, the constitutional process of selecting and confirming a new prime minister could take 2-3 weeks, adding further uncertainty to Thailand’s political landscape during an already volatile period.
As Thailand awaits the Constitutional Court’s verdict, the decision will not only determine Paetongtarn’s political future but could reshape the country’s governance at a critical juncture, testing both democratic institutions and the resilience of the ruling coalition.
BANGKOK — Dusit Thani’s founding family is locked in a bitter corporate battle that threatens one of Thailand’s most prestigious hotel brands, with an extraordinary shareholder meeting set for September 26, 2025 to potentially remove heir Chanin Donavanik from the board.
The 76-year-old hotel empire faces unprecedented turmoil as Chanin, son of late founder Lady Chanut Piyaoui, accuses his two sisters of orchestrating an “unjust takeover” in partnership with Central Group. The company has called the meeting to consider his removal as director and restructure board powers.
Family Legacy Under Threat
The conflict began after Lady Chanut’s death, when Chanin’s authority as the designated family business overseer was systematically dismantled. His siblings voted to dilute his signing power and removed him from Chanat and Children Co., the major Dusit shareholder, despite his role as estate co-executor.
“My mother entrusted me as the pillar to oversee the family businesses for more than 30 years,” Chanin said. “Now they’re using their control to reject financial statements and appoint outsiders linked to Central Group.”
Chanin Donavanik at his August 27, 2025 press conference, vowing to protect Dusit Thani from what he called an unjust takeover.
The siblings had agreed during COVID-19 to split the family empire three ways, with Chanin receiving the Dusit-controlling company. However, they later reneged after the unexpected success of the Dusit Residences project, which is now 92% sold.
Central Group Connection
Chanin alleges Central Group, which holds 17.09% of Dusit shares, is maneuvering for greater control through his sisters. He claims Central previously tried to acquire 22.5% without notice, only backing down after family negotiations.
“Several sources confirmed Central Group and Chanat and Children have held discussions about acquiring more shares,” Chanin said. “This could create serious conflicts of interest given our competing hotel and property businesses.”
Central Pattana denies news reports and clarifies shareholding in Dusit Thani Public Company Limited
Central Pattana Public Company later firmly denied the allegations Tuesday, calling its shareholding a legitimate investment to protect its stake in the 20 billion baht Dusit Central Park project. The company said director nominations are “normal shareholder practice,” not takeover attempts.
“Dusit Thani is managed under the leadership of its major shareholder group, Chanat and Children Co., Ltd. Central Pattana confirms that it has no involvement in the decision-making of Chanat and Children Co., Ltd.,” it stated.
High Stakes Battle
Group CEO Suphajee Suthumpun emphasized operations continue normally while assuring shareholders the meeting follows proper governance. However, Chanin warns the dispute could destabilize the successful Dusit Residences project and undermine buyer confidence.
Chanin Donavanik at his August 27, 2025 press conference, vowing to protect Dusit Thani from what he called an unjust takeover.
“This is not a personal dispute but a fight to protect a Thai brand with promising future,” Chanin declared. “I will not go anywhere. Even if removed as director, I’ll stay in another role, using every legal right to fight back if new directors harm Dusit Thani.”
The September 26 meeting will determine whether Thailand’s hotel royalty can resolve their family feud or if the kingdom’s hospitality crown jewel faces an uncertain future under new leadership.
CCTV footage shows the moment Thai suspect in scammer network withdraws money from ATM at Chiang Mai city center shopping mall for Chinese employers, August 25, 2025.
CHIANG MAI — Police have arrested a four-member scam ring consisting of Chinese and Thai nationals while they were withdrawing cash from an ATM at Central Chiang Mai Airport shopping center, seizing over 1.5 million baht in evidence.
Police Colonel Krittapol Yeesakorn, Commander of Provincial Police Region 5, announced Wednesday that the suspects were caught in the act on August 25. The arrest netted 1,539,000 baht ($47,395) in cash, five mobile phones, six bank account books, and transaction slips.
The arrested individuals include two Chinese nationals – Mr. Zhang, 37, and Mr. Yi, 29 – who served as money collectors. Two Thai nationals were also detained: Ms. Warimon, 33, who recruited bank account holders and supervised operations, and Mr. Sarapong, 27, whose bank account was used for the withdrawals.
Stacks of thousand-baht banknotes seized by police when the suspects were caught in the act on August 25, 2025.
During interrogation, the Chinese suspects confessed to receiving orders from an unnamed Chinese boss to collect cash from withdrawal teams. They reportedly earned 45,000 baht ($1,385) monthly, deducted from the money they handled. The pair claimed to have conducted similar operations three times previously, processing approximately 5 million baht ($153,980) total.
Ms. Warimon told police she received instructions via LINE messaging app from “Mrs. Meme,” described as a Lao national. Her role involved coordinating meetings, escorting account holders to banks, and delivering collected cash to the Chinese operatives. She admitted to participating in a previous operation involving over 4 million baht ($123,185).
Mr. Sarapong said this was his first involvement in such activities, recruited by Ms. Warimon with promises of 8,000 baht ($246) per withdrawal transaction.
Investigators have linked the case to one victim who filed a complaint with Phuping Police Station. The seized amount corresponds to her reported losses.
All four suspects face charges including conspiracy to defraud the public, computer crimes violations, illegal financial account operations, and running unauthorized lotteries.
Colonel Krittapol noted that intelligence suggests scammer networks are relocating from Cambodia’s Poipet border area to Vietnam, increasingly targeting Thailand’s northern provinces with sophisticated schemes tailored to different victim demographics.
The investigation continues as authorities work to return seized assets to the victim and pursue additional network members.
The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Advanced Info Service (AIS), a digital service provider and the largest mobile operator in Thailand, today announced a multiyear collaboration that will see AIS PLAY – AIS’s video streaming service – deliver select NBA games, marquee events and original programming to fans in Thailand beginning with the 2025-26 season that tips off on Tuesday, Oct. 21 in the U.S.
Through a collaboration with MIMO Tech Co. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of AIS, AIS PLAY will launch a dedicated sports channel that will provide its paid subscribers with access to select regular-season, playoff and Conference Finals games, NBA All-Star and the NBA Draft. Beginning with the 2026-27 season, AIS PLAY will also deliver the NBA Finals every other year.
Basketball fans in Thailand can enjoy NBA games and programming on AIS PLAY by subscribing to the service and downloading the AIS PLAY App through the App Store and Google Play on smartphones, tablets and smart TVs. For more information on the subscription offerings, fans can follow AIS PLAY’s official communication channels.
“We are truly delighted to work with the NBA, the world’s most renowned and popular professional basketball league,” said AIS Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Pratthana Leelapanang. “This marks a significant milestone that reinforces AIS’s leadership in sports and entertainment platforms in Thailand. This collaboration not only enriches the global content offering on AIS PLAY but also allows Thai basketball fans to enjoy the NBA experience more closely and consistently. Backed by our high-quality mobile and fixed broadband networks, we aim to grow the NBA fanbase in Thailand and help drive the sport’s development in the country.”
“AIS shares our commitment to growing basketball and the NBA in Thailand,” said NBA Asia Managing Director Wayne Chang. “We look forward to leveraging AIS’ expansive network to broaden the reach of our games and deepen Thai fans’ connections with their favorite NBA teams and players.”
For more information on the NBA, fans can visit NBA.com, download the NBA App, and follow the NBA on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.
