Thailand plans standalone Sports Ministry by 2027

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3 July 2026, 16:45

Thailand plans standalone Sports Ministry by 2027

BANGKOK — 2 July 2026, Thailand is moving ahead with plans to establish a standalone Ministry of Sports, while merging tourism responsibilities with the Ministry of Culture under a major government restructuring.

Sports and Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said that the reform, proposed under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has made significant progress since he took office.

Speaking to sports reporters, Surasak said the Office of the Public Sector Development Commission (OPDC) is expected to submit the framework for Cabinet approval at the meeting on 7 July 2026.

Under the proposal, the existing Ministry of Tourism and Sports would be split, with sports becoming a separate ministry. Tourism would be merged with the Ministry of Culture to form the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Surasak said the original roadmap envisioned the restructuring taking three years, but the process has moved much faster than expected.

While the new Sports Ministry could be established by the end of 2026, he believes a launch in 2027 is more realistic.

If approved, the reform would make sports a dedicated government portfolio while aligning tourism with cultural policy under a single ministry.

Ancient inscribed gold ring found at Phetchaburi site

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3 July 2026, 16:05

Ancient inscribed gold ring found at Phetchaburi site

PETCHABURI — 2 July 2026, The Fine Arts Department has uncovered two more ancient gold rings, including one bearing a rare Brahmi inscription, during excavations at the Don Yai Thong archaeological site.

Director-General Phanombut Chantarachot said that archaeologists were recovering human skeletons and artefacts from the site after rising groundwater, salinity and seasonal rain threatened to damage the fragile remains.

During the operation, the team discovered two gold rings associated with Skeleton No. 4.

One ring is engraved with an ancient Brahmi inscription and is believed to have served as a signet ring. Preliminary analysis by experts from Silpakorn University and the Fine Arts Department dates the inscription to the 5th–7th Buddhist centuries, or about 1,900–2,100 years ago.

The inscription is read as “Pusrakhitasa”, meaning “belonging to Pusrakhita” or “protected by the Pushya star”. Archaeologists believe the ring’s owner may have belonged to the Vaishya (merchant) caste.

The second gold ring has no decorative design.

Similar Brahmi inscriptions have previously been found on seals and jewellery at archaeological sites in Krabi and Chumphon, highlighting early trade and cultural links between the Indian subcontinent and present-day Thailand.

Both rings have been transferred to Phra Nakhon Khiri National Museum for conservation and further study.

The Fine Arts Department said excavation and recovery work will continue over the coming month before the site is closed and preliminary findings are presented to the public in an exhibition showcasing artefacts recovered from Don Yai Thong.

Venezuela quake survivor rescued after 8 days under 140 tonnes of rubble

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3 July 2026, 15:04

APTOPIX Venezuela Earthquake — Rescue workers attend to Hernán Alberto Gil Flores after he was pulled from the rubble eight days after he was trapped by twin earthquakes that struck Catia La Mar, Venezuela, Thursday, July 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara)

CATIA LA MAR, Venezuela — 3 July 2026, A Venezuelan security guard has been rescued alive after spending eight days trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed building following last week’s devastating twin earthquakes.

down1 — Rescue workers carry Hernán Alberto Gil Flores after he was pulled from the rubble eight days after he was trapped by twin earthquakes that struck Catia La Mar, Venezuela. A Chilean firefighter had earlier described the rescue operation as “without doubt the most complex and technically difficult which I’ve had to tackle”. (AP Photo)

The survivor, identified as Hernán Gil, was pulled from the ruins of the Galerías Playa Grande shopping centre in Catia La Mar after an operation that lasted more than 100 hours from the moment rescuers first detected signs that he was alive.

Rescue officials said Gil had been trapped beneath an estimated 140 tonnes of rubble after the building collapsed during the earthquakes on 24 June. Despite the length of time he spent underground, officials said he was in remarkably good condition.

down2 — Residents and rescue workers search through the rubble of buildings damaged in the earthquakes that struck La Guaira, Venezuela. A man has been rescued alive after being trapped for eight days in the rubble of a building that collapsed after twin earthquakes in Venezuela. (AP)

A Costa Rican Red Cross medic said Gil appeared to have survived because he had been inside a small concrete security booth in the basement car park when the building came down. The booth apparently formed a protective pocket around him, shielding him from the debris that collapsed above and around him.

One rescuer said Gil told the team he had not even suffered a broken or torn fingernail. Another described the operation as one of the most technically complex rescue missions he had ever faced.

Rescue teams from Venezuela, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Mexico, Portugal and the United States were involved in the effort. During the operation, crews sent Gil water, an IV drip, a face mask and protective goggles through a narrow opening as they worked to reach him.

Officials said the rescue tunnel collapsed several times, underscoring the danger faced by both Gil and the rescue workers. A small camera lowered into the rubble eventually captured Gil looking toward rescuers, one eye reddened and his face covered by a mask to protect him from dust.

Despite the ordeal, rescuers said Gil remained alert and even asked for his preferred flavour of electrolyte drink. A Mexican Red Cross worker said Gil helped encourage the rescue team, telling them he was glad they had returned to stay with him.

The rescue came as Venezuela continued to search for survivors following the 24 June earthquakes, which have killed more than 2,000 people, injured thousands more and left many others missing.

down4 — Rescue workers search through the rubble of a building destroyed by the earthquakes in La Guaira, Venezuela, Thursday, July 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)

Thailand unveils global debut of ‘SHIELD’ technology to fight scam and trafficking

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3 July 2026, 14:40

Thailand unveils global debut of ‘SHIELD’ technology to fight scam and trafficking

BANGKOK — 3 July 2026, Thai police have unveiled a new technology platform dubbed “SHIELD”, describing it as the world’s first system developed specifically to combat transnational call centre scam syndicates and human trafficking networks through real-time international intelligence sharing.

The platform was launched on Friday at the Vithes Samosorn Hall inside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during the closing ceremony of the second consultation meeting on preventing and suppressing human trafficking linked to cybercrime. The event was jointly organised by the Royal Thai Police and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, bringing together frontline law enforcement officers and representatives from international organisations.

The ceremony was chaired by Social Development and Human Security Minister Nikorn Soemklang and attended by Pinsuda Jayanama, Director-General of the Department of International Organizations, Pol. Lt. Gen. Surapong Thanomchit, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, Pol. Lt. Gen. Kritsada Kanjanalongkorn, Assistant Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, representatives from law enforcement agencies in 11 countries and officials from several international organisations.

According to the Royal Thai Police, SHIELD is the first platform designed specifically to integrate intelligence against transnational call centre scams and human trafficking. The system enables participating agencies to exchange real-time information on scam compound locations, criminal financial networks, suspected offenders and trafficking victims, helping authorities coordinate investigations, rescue operations and cross-border enforcement more efficiently.

The launch comes as authorities continue to confront large-scale cyber scam operations linked to human trafficking networks operating across parts of Southeast Asia, particularly in border areas of Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos. Thai authorities say these criminal groups have exploited victims from numerous countries, generating billions of dollars in illicit proceeds while using neighbouring countries as operational bases and regional transit routes.

In response, the Thai government has designated the suppression of call centre scams and human trafficking as a national agenda, directing relevant agencies to strengthen prevention, law enforcement and international cooperation.

The launch also builds on discussions held during the International Conference on Global Partnerships Against Cyber-Scamming, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangkok in December 2025, which brought together representatives from 67 countries, international organisations, the private sector and civil society to strengthen global cooperation against cyber-enabled crime.

To date, Thai police said SHIELD has already been adopted by partners in 10 countries: Australia, China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, South Korea, the United States and Vietnam.

Participating international organisations include the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Pol. Gen. Thatchai, who also serves as director of the Royal Thai Police’s Anti-Human Trafficking Center and head of the UNODC-designated Anti-Call Center Crime and Human Trafficking Task Force, said SHIELD would strengthen international cooperation by enabling faster, real-time responses to both call centre scams and human trafficking cases.

He further stated that the Royal Thai Police, under the leadership of National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet, would continue working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and international partners to expand the platform and strengthen global efforts against what has become one of the world’s fastest-growing forms of transnational organised crime.

Police bust Tiger gambling network, seize 46 million baht in assets

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3 July 2026, 13:43

Police bust Tiger gambling network, seize 46 million baht in assets

The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau has dismantled the Tiger online gambling network in Operation Tiger Head Hunt, arresting three suspects and seizing more than 46 million baht in assets after uncovering a network handling around 500 million baht a month.

At a press briefing on 3 July 2026, officers said the investigation targeted the “boonmee” gambling website and more than 40–50 online gambling sites operating under the Tiger platform, offering casino games, slot machines, boxing and international football betting.

Investigators traced the network’s financial transactions and found gambling proceeds were laundered through layers of corporate and nominee bank accounts to conceal their origin.

The investigation led police to Loei province, where a woman admitted she was paid 1,500 baht a month to allow the syndicate to use her home’s Wi-Fi connection to disguise the IP addresses used for online banking transactions.

Further investigation uncovered a safe house in Chiang Mai, which police said was used to collect gaming platform commissions and hold funds for the network.

Police arrested the alleged network leader, Tatchai (surname withheld), along with his girlfriend, Krittaya (surname withheld), who allegedly managed the group’s finances. Investigators said the proceeds were transferred to the bank account of Krittaya’s sister, Romita (surname withheld).

The three suspects face charges including operating an illegal online gambling business, money laundering conspiracy and money laundering.

Assets seized during the raids included a McLaren, an Audi, luxury jewellery, designer handbags and cash worth more than 46 million baht. Authorities also froze an additional 4 million baht in bank accounts linked to the network.

Police said the investigation is continuing to trace financial transactions and seize additional assets connected to the gambling operation.

US-based Walk for Peace monks mourn Thai monks killed in Mukdahan tragedy

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3 July 2026, 12:53

A group of Buddhist monks behind the Walk for Peace pilgrimage in the United States has expressed its deepest condolences following the deaths of Thai monks in a devastating road accident in northeastern Thailand, saying the tragedy resonates with them on a deeply personal level.

In a statement released after the 2 July accident, the group said it was “deeply saddened” by the news that a vehicle struck a group of monks during their walking pilgrimage in Mukdahan province, killing nine monks and injuring many others. The group also reassured supporters that the monks participating in the US-based Walk for Peace were not involved in the incident and were safe.

“As brothers in the Dhamma, we feel this profound loss deeply in our hearts,” the statement read. The group extended its condolences to Thailand’s Sangha, the families of the deceased and everyone affected, while praying for the departed monks and wishing those injured a full recovery.

The monks said the tragedy brought back memories of their own close call during the Walk for Peace on 19 November 2025 near Dayton, Texas, when a vehicle lost control and veered towards their walking group. They said the incident reminded them how vulnerable monks are while walking long distances in pursuit of peace.

The Walk for Peace pilgrimage began in Texas late last year, with around 20 monks travelling on foot to Washington, DC, to promote peace, mindfulness and loving-kindness. The group said such journeys are never without hardship, citing severe weather, physical exhaustion and the dangers of walking on public roads.

“Every step is an offering — a quiet and steadfast promise to endure adversity so that seeds of peace may be planted across the world,” the monks said, adding that the tragedy also serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of living each moment with mindfulness and compassion.

The statement concluded with a prayer for all beings to be free from suffering and to live in peace, safety and good health.

Tropical Storm Maysak to bring heavier rain across Thailand

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3 July 2026, 12:49

Tropical Storm Maysak to bring heavier rain across Thailand

BANGKOK — 3 July 2026, The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Maysak, which is expected to bring heavier rainfall to many parts of Thailand despite not making landfall in the country.

The DDPM, through the National Disaster Warning Centre, said the storm is forecast to pass over Hainan Island before making landfall in southern China between 4 and 6 July.

Although Maysak is not expected to move directly into Thailand, the agency warned that it will strengthen the southwest monsoon, resulting in increased rainfall nationwide, with isolated heavy to very heavy rain.

As of Friday, the storm’s centre was located over the northern South China Sea, packing maximum sustained winds of around 74 kilometres per hour and moving north-northwest.

According to forecast tracks, Maysak will cross Hainan Island before moving ashore in southern China between 4 and 6 July. While Thailand lies outside the storm’s direct path, its circulation is expected to enhance the southwest monsoon, increasing rainfall across much of the country.

Authorities urged residents, particularly those living in areas prone to flash floods, forest runoff and landslides, to closely monitor official weather forecasts and disaster warnings and follow instructions issued by local officials.

The DDPM also encouraged the public to stay updated through official weather bulletins. Emergency assistance is available around the clock via the department’s 1784 hotline.

British tourist arrested after assault on Phuket tuk-tuk driver, visa revoked

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3 July 2026, 11:36

PHUKET — Police have tracked down and arrested a British tourist accused of assaulting a tuk-tuk driver in Patong after the incident went viral on social media, with immigration authorities revoking his permission to stay in Thailand.

Patong police identified the suspect as 33-year-old British national Shane Daniel Correia. Officers brought him in for questioning on Friday before proceeding with legal action on assault-related charges. Immigration police in Phuket were later notified to take action under the Immigration Act.

The case stems from an incident at around 05:00 on 2 July, when a 48-year-old tuk-tuk driver from Trang province was allegedly assaulted outside a hotel on Na Nai Road in Patong, Kathu district. The victim filed a police complaint at 06:13, saying the suspect fled the scene in a car after the attack.

Police said Correia had been granted permission to remain in Thailand for business purposes. However, authorities determined that his alleged conduct posed a threat to public safety and social order, making him a prohibited person under Section 12(7) of Thailand’s Immigration Act.

On 3 July, the commander of Immigration Division 6 issued an order revoking Correia’s permission to stay in the kingdom under Sections 12(7) and 36 of the Immigration Act. He was informed of his right to appeal before being handed back to Patong police and later transferred to the Phuket Immigration Detention Centre for further legal proceedings.

Thailand ranked 8th for best healthcare system in global 2026 survey

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3 July 2026, 11:12

Thailand ranked 8th for best healthcare system in global 2026 survey

BANGKOK — 3 July 2026, the government has welcomed Thailand being ranked the world’s eighth-best healthcare system in 2026 by the Numbeo website, saying the result reflects the country’s efficient healthcare management and broad access to medical services.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploytalay Laksameesangjan said on Friday that the ranking was published by Numbeo, the world’s largest crowd-sourced cost-of-living and quality-of-life database, which compiles user-reported data on healthcare, housing, crime, transportation, cost of living and other indicators. According to the 2026 survey, Thailand ranked eighth globally for healthcare.

The top 10 countries with the best healthcare systems in the 2026 survey were:

Taiwan — 87.1 points
South Korea — 82.9 points
Netherlands — 81.1 points
Japan — 80.1 points
Austria — 78.9 points
Ecuador — 77.7 points
Finland — 77.6 points
Thailand — 77.5 points
Denmark — 77.2 points
Spain — 77.2 points

Ploytalay said Thailand’s healthcare system has been recognised for combining affordable medical costs with high-quality services, efficient administration and broad access to treatment.

She also highlighted the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS), commonly known as the 30-baht scheme or Gold Card scheme, which allows eligible Thai citizens to receive healthcare using only their national identification card. The programme covers a wide range of medical services, from common illnesses to chronic and high-cost conditions, through Thailand’s network of public and participating private hospitals.

The government noted that the latest ranking also reinforces Thailand’s reputation as one of the world’s leading destinations for medical tourism.

Tourists apologise after taking offering coconut in Pattaya

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3 July 2026, 10:05

Tourists apologise after taking offering coconut in Pattaya

CHONBURI — 2 July 2026, Two foreign women have apologised after unknowingly taking a coconut left as an offering to local spirits at Pattaya Beach for a photo, sparking widespread discussion on social media.

The incident came to light after a Facebook user posted a 45-second video showing the tourists picking up a coconut from beneath a tree at South Pattaya Beach, Chon Buri, and using it as a photo prop by the sea.

Reporters visiting the site found that local residents regularly leave coconuts, desserts and bottles of red soft drink beneath the tree as offerings to guardian spirits, believing the practice brings good fortune.

The spot is also popular with both Thai and foreign visitors taking photos of the beach. Locals believe the women were unaware the coconut was part of a religious offering and had no intention of showing disrespect.

Wanchai, 35, who recorded the video, said he had earlier seen a group of four or five foreign tourists resting under the tree. After asking whether they planned to visit Koh Larn, one tourist picked up the offering coconut and walked to the beach to take photographs.

He later used a translation app to explain that the coconut had been placed there as an offering.

“Once they understood, they looked shocked and immediately apologised,” he said. “They said they did not know about the Thai custom, offered an apology in Russian, and returned the coconut to its original place.”

The incident has prompted online discussion about the importance of cultural awareness when visiting religious or spiritually significant sites in Thailand.

The top 10 countries with the best healthcare systems in the 2026 survey were:

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