Uzbek Man Arrested in Phuket for Assaulting Girlfriend

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16 July 2025, 12:13

Uzbek phuket1 — A 41-year-old Uzbek suspect in a domestic violence case raises his hands as police arrest him at a residence in Soi Na Seua, Village 4, Wichit Sub-district, Mueang District, Phuket Province on July 15, 2025.

PHUKET — Police in Phuket have arrested a 41-year-old Uzbek national following multiple criminal charges, including assault on his girlfriend and theft of money and a motorcycle.

Wichit Police Station received a complaint on July 13th regarding Mr. Artur, age 41, from Uzbekistan, who allegedly assaulted his girlfriend while at a condominium in Wichit Sub-district, Mueang Phuket District. The suspect then reportedly stole the woman’s belongings, including a motorcycle, before fleeing the scene.

Following the incident, officers gathered witness statements and evidence to request an arrest warrant from Phuket Provincial Court, which was granted on July 15th. Police subsequently tracked down and apprehended the suspect at a location in Soi Na Seua, Village 4, Wichit Sub-district.

Uzbek phuket2 — Police in Phuket arrest a 41-year-old Uzbek national following multiple criminal charges, along with a motorcycle as evidence in Soi Na Seua, Village 4, Wichit Sub-district, Mueang District, Phuket Province on July 15, 2025.

During the arrest, authorities recovered the stolen motorcycle—a white Yamaha Filano—along with other stolen property as evidence. The Uzbek national faces three serious charges:

Nighttime theft – Maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment and 10,000 baht fine
Property damage – Up to 3 years imprisonment or 60,000 baht fine, or both
Assault causing bodily or mental harm – 6 months to 10 years imprisonment

If convicted and sentenced to imprisonment, the defendant may face additional immigration penalties under Thai law, including denial of future entry into Thailand, revocation of permission to stay in the country, and potential blacklisting from re-entering the Kingdom.

The case highlights ongoing efforts by Phuket authorities to address crimes involving foreign nationals and ensure the safety of residents and visitors in the popular tourist destination.

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AIS 3BB Launches “Premier League + Fast Internet” Deal for H2 2025

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MC Marketing

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16 July 2025, 09:46

AIS 3BB FIBRE3 Advances Its Leadership in Thailand’s High-Speed Internet Market Unveils H2 2025 strategy under the concept “BOOSTING YOUR BRIGHTER FUTURE” – connecting, enabling, and enriching fixed broadband customers. The company is set to raise the industry benchmark with cutting-edge innovations and services tailored to digital lifestyles—focusing on speed, entertainment, security, and business opportunities. With a mission to serve over 5 million customers, AIS 3BB FIBRE3 also reinforces its commitment to supporting businesses, entrepreneurs, and both public and private sectors—driving strong, sustainable growth for Thailand’s digital economy.

Yordchai Asawathongchai, Head of Commercial Broadband Business Unit AIS, stated “Today, AIS 3BB FIBRE3 remains the No.1 fixed broadband network in Thailand, with over 5 million users across all 77 provinces, 928 districts, and 7,379 subdistricts nationwide. This reflects the strong trust customers place in our network and services. At the same time, the Thai broadband industry still has significant growth potential, with current household penetration at just 36.8%. That’s why AIS 3BB FIBRE3 is committed to expanding access under the concept ‘BOOSTING YOUR BRIGHTER FUTURE’—delivering innovations and solutions that fit every aspect of today’s digital lifestyles. Because in this era, it’s no longer just about speed or bandwidth—it’s about truly understanding and meeting the needs of every household.”

Under the concept “BOOSTING YOUR BRIGHTER FUTURE”, AIS 3BB FIBRE3 is driving its broadband business forward through three core strategies: Connect – Create Opportunity – Deliver Happiness.

MORE CONNECTIVITY – Elevating the Digital Lifestyle

AIS 3BB FIBRE3 delivers a complete home entertainment experience. Customers can enjoy every match of the English Premier League live via AIS PLAY and MONOMAX, alongside blockbuster movies, series, and top streaming apps—starting at just THB 199/month (special rate until 9 August 2025). AIS PLAYBOX packages start at THB 299/month, while dedicated business packages for Pub, Bar and restaurants begin at THB 2,800/month, with fully licensed EPL and FA Cup access—boosting SME revenues nationwide.

Special Campaign! New customers subscribing to Premier League add-on packages, and existing customers with an AIS PLAYBOX who upgrade to the Premier League package— Stand a chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime football trip to Scotland – England (8 days, 6 nights) and cheer for your favorite team — Liverpool vs Manchester City — live in the stadium! plus weekly prizes worth over THB 2 million. Register now until 15 September 2025 at www.ais.th/consumers/fibre/package/premier.

Beyond world-class sports content, AIS 3BB FIBRE3 continues to push the boundaries of broadband technology with the launch of Thailand’s first Router AI 2G, supporting speeds of up to 2Gbps via both Wi-Fi and LAN. Powered by Wi-Fi 7 Multi-RU and an intelligent AI chip, the router reduces interference and latency by over 50%, while accelerating performance for applications like live streaming, online gaming, and video conferencing. It supports up to 128 connected devices, ensuring smooth and seamless experiences for esports, the metaverse, and in-home NAS services—delivering a truly Ultra-Gigabit fixed broadband experience.

MORE OPPORTUNITY – Enabling Business Growth

AIS 3BB FIBRE3 reinforces its leadership in network technology with the launch of “PRO-EVENT SOLUTION,” a high-speed internet solution offering speeds up to 2Gbps—specifically designed to meet the demands of next-generation event experiences. This solution delivers direct, high-performance connectivity from the AIS and 3BB FIBRE networks to event venues, powered by cutting-edge technology that ensures maximum speed, stability, and strength. It is designed for use both indoors and outdoors, covering locations nationwide.

PRO-EVENT SOLUTION is ideal for professional event organizers of all types—including live streams, conferences, concerts, e-sports tournaments, trade shows, and large-scale festivals. The service includes end-to-end support from expert engineers, covering network design, on-site installation, and real-time operational management throughout the event, ensuring seamless execution without interruptions.

This innovative solution underscores AIS 3BB FIBRE3’s mission to empower Thai entrepreneurs by enhancing the potential of the event business with advanced communication technology. By offering full nationwide coverage, it aims to set a new standard for Thailand’s event industry in the digital era.

MORE HAPPINESS – Enhancing Wellbeing and Peace of Mind

Enhance your family’s quality of life and safety with a high-speed internet package bundled with comprehensive home protection with AIS 3BB FIBRE3 HOME INSURANCE. Starting from just THB 699/month, customers receive free insurance coverage from MSIG, including protection against natural disasters up to THB 500,000, burglary coverage for residential property up to THB 100,000, personal belongings and firefighting expense compensation up to THB 50,000 each, and 24-hour emergency home assistance available once per year. Coverage begins immediately upon subscription, with no additional registration required—offering reliable connectivity and all-around protection in one value-packed plan.

AIS 3BB FIBRE3 customers also enjoy exclusive privileges throughout the year, including: Exclusive Trips with premium travel experiences, Points Redemption for rewards, premium services, and special events, Special Concerts with access to exclusive live performances. Additionally, AIS PLAYBOX continues to expand its world-class content lineup, featuring: Top global news channels: Bloomberg, Fox News, Fox Business, Leading sports channels: Eurosport, LFCTV, Man U TV, Real Madrid TV, W-Sport and Live NBA games streaming on Prime Video starting this October. Customers will also enjoy the latest from Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, and for those subscribed to the HBO Max package, access to premium content. And most exciting of all — subscribers can stream premium content on HBO Max and stay tuned for campaigns featuring Hollywood blockbusters and Original series, reinforcing AIS 3BB FIBRE3’s commitment to HOME ENTERTAINMENT. Further details to follow.

exclusive campaigns tied to blockbuster Hollywood films and original series—reinforcing AIS 3BB FIBRE3’s commitment to becoming the true leader in home entertainment. Stay tuned for more exciting updates coming soon!

“AIS 3BB FIBRE3 remains committed to setting new industry standards for fixed broadband industry through sustainable development—across technology, service, and customer experience—aiming to create a truly better future for every Thai household,” Yordchai concluded.

For package subscriptions or more information, please visit www.ais.th/consumers/fibre, or contact any AIS Shop or 3BB Shop nationwide. Call AIS Call Center: 1175 or 3BB Call Center: 1530.

Thai Cyber Police Raid Properties of Kok An’s Children to Seize Assets

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Khaosod English

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15 July 2025, 23:07

kok an raid2 — Police discover multiple safes in a Bangkok house belonging to the daughter of Cambodian businessman Kok An during evidence collection and asset seizure operations in the scammer case on July 15, 2025.

BANGKOK — Thai cyber police executed search warrants at seven locations on July 15 connected to Cambodian businessman Kok An’s scammer network, including properties owned by his children in Bangkok, surrounding provinces, and Sa Kaeo province.

The raids followed arrest warrants issued July 14 for six suspects, including three of Kok An’s children — daughters Juree and Phuchelin, and son Kittisak — who have fled Thailand. Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiewphan of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau said officers have frozen over 1.1 billion baht ($33.7 million) in assets to prevent overseas transfers.

“Our goal is to seize all assets to redistribute them to victims and show the world that Thailand is seriously cracking down on call center gangs,” Trairong stated. The network supported scammer operations from from the 25-story building, 18-story building, luxury tower, and all casino groups.

kok an raid1 — Cyber police raid a luxury house in Bangkok on July 15, 2025, after the court issued arrest warrants for three children of Cambodian businessman Kok An, who are involved in a scammer network.

During Tuesday’s searches, police seized seven safes from Phuchelin’s residence and one additional safe in Sa Kaeo province. This follows earlier raids on July 8 at 19 locations where millions of baht in assets were confiscated.

Kok An, a casino owner and close associate of Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, remains at large. Police General Thatchai Pitaneelabutr said authorities are coordinating with Interpol for a Red Notice while tracking the network’s international money laundering operations.

The Interior Ministry has launched an investigation into irregularities in the Thai national ID cards held by Kok An’s children. Police said purchased properties served as money laundering fronts and accommodations for scammer gangs transiting through Thailand to third countries.

“Any Thai citizens found collaborating would face maximum penalties as traitors,” Thatchai warned, emphasizing that multiple countries are tracking this international network.

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Thai Police Arrest Woman Who Allegedly Seduced and Blackmailed Buddhist Monks

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Associated Press

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15 July 2025, 20:48

arrest miss golf — Police arrest Wilawan Emsawat, a woman who allegedly enticed a string of Buddhist monks into sexual relationships and then pressured them into making large payments to cover up their intimacy, at her home in Nonthaburi province on July 15, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/Thanee Thaweekeud)

By JINTAMAS SAKSORNCHAI

BANGKOK (AP) — Police in Thailand arrested a woman Tuesday who allegedly enticed a string of Buddhist monks into sexual relationships and then pressured them into making large payments to cover up their intimacy.

The possible violation of the celibacy rule for monks has rocked Buddhist institutions and gripped public attention in Thailand in recent weeks. At least nine abbots and senior monks involved in the scandal have been disrobed and cast out of the monkhood, the Royal Thai Police Central Investigation Bureau said.

Wilawan Emsawat, in her mid-30s, was arrested at her home in Nonthaburi province north of the capital Bangkok on charges including extortion, money laundering and receiving stolen goods. Police said they traced money transferred to her by a senior monk from a bank account belonging to his temple in northern Thailand.

Wilawan has not made a statement since her arrest and it was unclear if she has legal representation. Speaking to local media before her arrest, she acknowledged one relationship and said she had given money to that monk.

AP25196388951217 — A screengrab made from the livestream of Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau holding a press conference in Bangkok, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, about the arrest of a woman involved in a sex scandal that caused several senior monks to leave monk-hood. (Central Investigation Bureau via AP)

Scandals involving monks surface a few times a year in Thailand but usually don’t involve senior members of the clergy. The case also puts a spotlight on the large sums of money donated to temples controlled by abbots, which is in marked contrast to the abstemious lives they are supposed to lead under their religion’s precepts.

Wilawan deliberately targeted senior monks for financial gain, police said, noting they found several monks had transferred large amounts of money after Wilawan initiated romantic relationships with them.

Wilawan’s bank accounts received around 385 million baht ($11.9 million) in the past three years, but most of the funds were spent on online gambling websites, police said.

Jaroonkiat Pankaew, a Central Investigation Bureau deputy commissioner, said the investigation began last month after an abbot of a famous temple in Bangkok abruptly left the monkhood.

Investigators found the abbot had allegedly been blackmailed by Wilawan over their romantic relationship. She told the monk that she was pregnant and asked him to pay 7.2 million baht ($222,000) in financial assistance, Jaroonkiat said at a news conference in Bangkok Tuesday.

Police believed “this woman is dangerous and we needed to arrest her as soon as possible,” Jaroonkiat said.

Thai media reported a search of her mobile phones revealed tens of thousands of photos and videos, as well as numerous chat logs indicating intimacy with several monks, many of which could be used for blackmail.

Thai monks are largely members of the Theravada sect, which requires them to be celibate and refrain from even touching a woman.

Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai ordered authorities to review and consider tightening existing laws related to monks and temples, especially the transparency of temple finances, to restore faith in Buddhism, government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub said Tuesday.

The Central Investigation Bureau has set up a Facebook page for people to report monks who misbehave, Jaroonkiat said.

“We will investigate monks across the country,” he said. “I believe that the ripple effects of this investigation will lead to a lot of changes.”

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Northern Irish Tourist’s Cannabis Taxi Dispute Settled by Pattaya Police

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Khaosod English

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15 July 2025, 19:37

irish-taxidriver1 — A Northern Irish man and his wife explain to police at Pattaya Station after being summoned for questioning about incomplete taxi fare payment on the afternoon of July 15, 2025.

PATTAYA — Pattaya City Police and Tourist Police helped resolve a dispute between Mr. Prajuab Yumekha, a 54-year-old taxi driver, and Mr. Matthew, a 34-year-old tourist from Northern Ireland, on the afternoon of July 15.

The incident began when Prajuab filed a complaint claiming that the tourist refused to pay the full fare for a ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya at 1:30 a.m., and instead offered a large packet of cannabis as payment.

According to Prajuab’s complaint, when he arrived at the hotel to drop off the tourist, the passenger said he only had 900 baht while his wife had only 50 baht. When Prajuab asked for the remaining 1,050 baht, the passenger claimed he had no money and then pulled out a large packet of cannabis, offering it as compensation instead of cash.

Prajuab refused and said he would file a police report. The foreign man expressed his displeasure and immediately fled up to the hotel building with his wife.

irish2 — Prajuab Yumekha, a 54-year-old taxi driver, parks his taxi in front of Pattaya City Police Station to file a complaint after a foreign passenger paid incomplete fare and offered cannabis as payment in the early hours of July 15, 2025.

irish — Prajuab Yumekha, a 54-year-old taxi driver, arrives at Pattaya City Police Station and finally receives the full 2,000 baht fare on the afternoon of July 15, 2025.

“I’ve helped passengers who didn’t have money before because I felt sorry for them, but encountering this really made me feel discouraged. Usually, we only see news about taxi drivers harming foreigners, but in real life, I’m faced with foreigners who take advantage like this. Who will help us?” Prajuab said.

Matthew, who was summoned to Pattaya City Police Station later in the afternoon, explained that he didn’t have enough cash and tried to get the driver to take him to an ATM, but was unsuccessful. Regarding the cannabis, he said he was merely talking to a friend and had no intention of using it as payment for the taxi fare.

Matthew subsequently agreed to pay the 2,000 baht fare as previously agreed upon. Both parties then went their separate ways without any legal proceedings.

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Boosting Nan’s Crafts and Province Towards “World Craft City” Designation

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MC Marketing

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15 July 2025, 18:20

Nan, a city brimming with cultural charm, rich traditions, and exquisite handicrafts, is sparking new hope for its global presence. This comes through a significant collaboration between the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) Nan Office and Associate Professor Dr. Sittichai Samanchat, Advisor to the World Crafts Council – Asia Pacific Region (WCC-APR). Dr. Sittichai is a leading expert in guiding cities towards becoming members of the “World Craft City” (WCC) network. This joint effort has a grand objective: to elevate the standards of Nan’s handicrafts and folk arts, while enabling the city to build a network of creative crafts and strengthen its potential for membership in UNESCO’s international Creative Cities Network.

The preliminary assessment began at the DASTA Nan Office meeting room, with discussions focused on a shared goal. The assessment team met with the Deputy Governor of Nan, representatives from relevant government agencies, and silver craft entrepreneurs. This meeting was not just a formal welcome; it served as a crucial platform for collective information gathering and sharing to meticulously prepare Nan Province’s draft application for World Craft City status. All parties actively exchanged perspectives and in-depth information about Nan’s handicrafts, including their backstories, inspirations, unique local techniques, the import of silver bars, and the potential to develop and promote these crafts to stand out and succeed on the global stage. The overarching goal was to present Nan’s image as a vibrant and globally valuable handicraft hub.

Following this, the committee traveled to Pua District, Nan Province, to visit silver handicraft projects, particularly Doi Silver. This site encompasses a museum that chronicles the history of silver craftsmanship in Nan, where artisans from the province once worked as royal goldsmiths in the palace before returning to develop their distinctive silver craftsmanship in Ban Kid. Additionally, Doi Silver features a silver production factory and the Kanchanaphisek Royal Goldsmith College. This location perfectly illustrates the complete cycle of silver handicraft creation, from education and industrial-scale production to exhibition and the dissemination of invaluable stories.

Besides Doi Silver, the committee also visited Banteung Silver, another renowned and locally recognized silver production center. These visits allowed the assessment team to experience the intricate and beautiful production processes firsthand, converse with experienced artisans, and witness their dedication to passing down their wisdom through generations. Nan’s silver crafts are more than just ornaments; they embody the narratives, the way of life, and the very soul of the people of Nan.

This preliminary assessment of Nan Province is not merely a technical process; it marks a significant stride, demonstrating the readiness and commitment of Nan’s people to become a part of the global craft network. The collaboration between DASTA Nan Office, Associate Professor Dr. Sittichai Samanchat, and the experts dedicated to driving cities towards “World Craft City” membership will form a strong foundation. It will propel Nan to be recognized and accepted as a “World Craft City,” creating new opportunities for local communities, artisans, and entrepreneurs. This initiative fosters sustainable development and firmly reaffirms that Nan’s handicrafts are not just beautiful objects; they are a living spirit ready to reach out to the world.

7 Vietnamese Arrested in Tech-Savvy Loan Sharks Operated in Thailand

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Khaosod English

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15 July 2025, 17:39

vietnamese loan1 — Vietnamese suspects, aged 21-40, arrested at a residence in Pathum Thani Province on July 14, 2025.

PATHUM THANI — Immigration authorities have arrested seven Vietnamese nationals operating an illegal cross-border loan shark network that used sophisticated technology to remotely control borrowers’ phones and charge exorbitant interest rates of up to 349.8% annually.

The bust occurred on July 14, 2025, at a house in Khlong Si Subdistrict, Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani Province, following a tip from an informant about suspicious foreign nationals who had failed to register their accommodation.

High-Tech Loan Shark Operation

Police Major General Chairit Anurit, Commander of Immigration Division 3, led the operation that uncovered a sophisticated scheme targeting Vietnamese citizens. The suspects, aged 21-40, were found operating from computers equipped with iCloud programs and encrypted communication software capable of accessing users’ personal information.

The group advertised loans through Facebook and created iCloud accounts for borrowers. When customers failed to repay loans, the operators would remotely lock their iPhones, rendering them unusable. The operation charged interest rates reaching 9,700 Vietnamese dong ($0.37) per day—equivalent to 349.8% per year.

vietnamese loan3 — Seized computers contained iCloud programs and encrypted software used to access users’ personal information.

Massive Scale of Operation

According to Immigration Division 3 Commander Chairit, Vietnamese authorities had previously dismantled a similar network involving hundreds of participants who received 15-20% commission on loan amounts. That operation affected over 100,000 victims nationwide, with total damages exceeding 400 billion Vietnamese dong (approximately 400 million baht or $15.3 million).

More than 40 offenders were arrested in Vietnam, with authorities seizing computers, mobile phones, vehicles, and various assets while freezing 23 bank accounts. The severity of the offense in Vietnam carries a maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment and a 200,000 baht ($6,170) fine.

Evidence Seized, Legal Proceedings

During the raid, authorities confiscated seven computers, more than 29 mobile phones, and numerous electronic devices. The suspects admitted to serving as administrators for the illegal lending operation, which had relocated to Thailand to avoid Vietnamese law enforcement crackdowns.

The seven Vietnamese nationals face charges of being members of a criminal organization with concealed operations and illegal intentions, as well as working without proper permits. They were handed over to Khlong Luang Police Station for prosecution.

vietnamese loan22 — Thai authorities arrest Vietnamese men, aged between 21 and 40, working online inside a residence in Moo 2, Khlong Si Subdistrict, Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani Province, on July 14, 2025.

Following court proceedings, the suspects will have their permits to stay in Thailand revoked, be blacklisted as prohibited persons, and face deportation.

Ongoing Enforcement

Police Lieutenant General Panumas Boonyaluck, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, emphasized the agency’s commitment to strict monitoring and suppression of foreign criminal activities. The operation represents an extension of previous cases and demonstrates continuous coordination with Vietnamese authorities.

The Immigration Bureau encourages public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities through hotline 1178 or www.immigration.go.th, as part of ongoing efforts to monitor entries and exits from Thailand and track wanted persons.

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Japanese Tourists Caught Red-Handed Spray-Painting Train in Bangkok

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Khaosod English

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15 July 2025, 16:19

japan paint train3 — The State Railway of Thailand's PR page posted images of two Japanese tourists who spray-painted the locomotive and cars of Express Train No. 171, arrested at Salaya Station in Nakhon Pathom province with 11 spray paint cans on July 13, 2025.

BANGKOK — Two Japanese tourists were arrested after being caught spray-painting the locomotive and passenger cars on the Bangkok-Sungai Kolok route near a railway overpass on Kanjanapisek Road in Taling Chan district, Bangkok.

Veeris Amrapala, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), revealed on Tuesday that the incident occurred on July 13 when station officials immediately coordinated with local police to control the situation. The spray-painting caused damage to railway property and delayed the train service. The suspects were subsequently taken to Taling Chan Police Station for legal proceedings.

The State Railway of Thailand confirmed it will pursue full legal action to protect state property and prevent this from becoming a precedent for similar future offenses, emphasizing that railway assets are national property.

japan paint train1 — The side of the train car was spray-painted with bronze paint by a group of Japanese tourists, before 2 of the 3 individuals were arrested on July 13, 2025. (The State Railway of Thailand’s PR Facebook page)

Police Recover 11 Spray Paint Cans

Taling Chan Police Station officers reported successfully detaining two tourists at the scene, while a third suspect escaped. Authorities seized 11 spray paint cans from the suspects as evidence.

According to railway staff from Express Train No. 171, the incident occurred while the train was traveling at moderate speed past Taling Chan Station toward Salaya Station. When the train reached the underpass area, three men were spotted, with one using spray paint on the locomotive. The train crew immediately notified the engineer to stop the train.

After the train stopped, staff pursued the three suspects who attempted to flee, successfully apprehending two Japanese nationals. A search of their bags revealed 11 spray paint cans in bronze-silver color matching the paint found on the train cars, along with paint trays, rollers, and roller handles.

The two Japanese men were then escorted to Salaya Station and handed over to Taling Chan Police Station for prosecution.

The State Railway of Thailand is requesting public cooperation in reporting inappropriate behavior or vandalism of government property by contacting local officials or calling the 24-hour hotline at 1690 to help preserve Thai railways as a national asset.

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Elevating Thai Soft Power to the Global Stage: “SPLASH – Soft Power Forum 2025”

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MC Marketing

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15 July 2025, 12:18

The SPLASH – Soft Power Forum 2025, the largest soft power event in ASEAN, has received an overwhelmingly positive response. Now in its second year, the forum provided an opportunity for Thailand to lead global trends. The event took place from July 8-11, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, featuring a packed schedule of activities over four days.

The event was graced by Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Minister of Culture, who presided over the opening ceremony. She was joined by Surapong Suebwonglee, Chairman of the National Soft Power Development Committee, Suchart Chomklin, Deputy Minister of Commerce, Pornvit Sila-On is the Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) and Surinthorn Sunthornsanan, Deputy Director-General of the same department. Their participation emphasised the significance of the event in promoting Thailand’s soft power on the global stage.

Thailand Unveils $6.1B Aid Package, 3-Strategy Plan for US Tariffs

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Khaosod English

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15 July 2025, 09:13

pichai tariff-14-07-1 — Pichai Chunhavajira, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, speaks to the media on July 14, 2025, about Thailand’s negotiating framework and measures to address the impact of Trump-era tariffs.

BANGKOK — Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira unveiled Thailand’s negotiating framework and measures to deal with the impact of Trump-era tariffs.

He said on July 14 that Thai government is pushing ahead with negotiations with the United States on retaliatory tariffs to achieve sustainable mutual benefits. He also outlined three key negotiating strategies and announced a 200 billion baht ($6.15 billion) package of soft loans through state-owned banks to support Thailand’s private sector.

Mr Pichai acknowledged that there is still a lack of clarity after more than 100 days of negotiations with the US. The talks are based on a unilateral proposal from the US, as opposed to the usual format of a free trade agreement (FTA), which involves reciprocal concessions. Nevertheless, Thailand is still keen to reconcile mutual interests and long-term sustainability.

agriculture people — The safeguard measures for agriculture will be maintained.

Thailand is now preparing to expand the list of products to be negotiated, with the aim of reducing tariffs to 0% on goods that the country cannot produce or cannot produce in sufficient quantities. The safeguard measures for agriculture will be maintained.

“The new proposal that Thailand has put forward opens its market to 63–64% of US goods, and we are increasing that to 69%,” Pichai said. “We are opening up to certain products that we have not opened up before.”

Three Core Strategies to Address U.S. Tariffs

Pichai outlined three key principles guiding Thailand’s negotiation team:

1. Proactive Market Access:
Thailand is willing to expand market access for goods that the US wants to sell and that Thailand needs to import. This includes products that Thailand cannot produce itself or does not have in sufficient quantities.

Thailand has proposed to reduce tariffs on such imports to zero without undermining existing free trade agreements with other countries, while protecting its agricultural sector.

The new proposal includes products such as longan and tilapia, as requested by the US. The automotive sector is still under review as left-hand drive cars from the US are not allowed to enter the Thai market.

2. Promoting Thai Investment in the U.S.:
Thailand will encourage more Thai investment in the US, especially in processed agriculture and goods that Thailand imports from the US, as well as in the energy sector. Given the large energy reserves in the US, natural gas prices there are significantly lower than world market prices.

3. Preventing Transshipment Abuse:
The US wants Thailand to increase the local content requirement from 40% to 60–70% to prevent the abuse of transshipment. Thailand needs to carefully consider how such a change would affect production costs.

Mr Pichai noted that while the outcome of the negotiations is uncertain, Thailand is doing its best to propose win-win solutions. An increase in Thai imports from the US and investment in the US will also help reduce the trade deficit that worries Washington.

pichai trade US 2 — Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira meets with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and the USTR team in Washington on July 3, 2025.

200-Billion-Baht Soft Loan to Support Thai Businesses

As an urgent measure to support companies affected by the US tariffs, Pichai announced a 200 billion baht ($6.15 billion) package for low-interest loans through state-owned banks.

The interest rate will be as low as 0.01% and the funds can be used to support liquidity, investment or inventory management. The government is also planning further relief measures and will allow each industry to propose the specific support it needs to design targeted assistance programmes.

Slow, But Holds Strategic Advantage – Tariff Talks Must Consider Geopolitics

Pichai acknowledged that Thailand may have moved more slowly than other countries, but said this gave the country a strategic advantage as it could observe other nations’ approaches first and adjust its own plans accordingly. He emphasised that tariff negotiations go beyond trade, they are inherently linked to international politics and geopolitical strategy.

He pointed out that the US could use new forms of trade protectionism as part of its broader geopolitical manoeuvres. He also urged ASEAN to take a serious look at the concept of local content to maintain competitiveness in an ever-changing global trading environment.

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