Korean Man Arrested for Driving Mobile SMS Scam in Bangkok

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20 August 2025, 17:04

korean fsb1 — Cyber police intercept a suspicious vehicle on Asok-Din Daeng Road and discover FBS equipment on August 20, 2025.

BANGKOK — Cyber police arrested a South Korean national using a False Base Station (FBS) device to drive around Bangkok sending fraudulent SMS messages to residents, with the suspect confessing he was hired by Chinese nationals.

With the Thai-Cambodia border under tight security making cross-border scam operations difficult, cyber police have arrested three suspects conducting mobile SMS fraud operations over the past three weeks, with the latest being a South Korean man who claimed he was hired by a Chinese employer.

Sophisticated Mobile Scam Operation

Police Colonel Trairong Phiwphan, Commander of the Technology Crime Investigation Division, announced details of the South Korean scammer’s arrest on August 20th, crediting cooperation between cyber police and engineering teams from mobile network provider AIS in tracking down vehicles conducting mobile SMS fraud using False Base Station (FBS) devices.

Authorities detected a suspicious vehicle passing through Ekamai intersection onto New Petchburi Road, heading toward Asok-Din Daeng Road, Pracha Songkhro intersection, and Victory Monument. They detected abnormal frequency signals moving with the vehicle before intercepting it on Asok-Din Daeng Road.

The driver, identified as Mr. Kim, 35, a South Korean national, had active FBS equipment in his vehicle – modified radio telecommunications equipment that transmits signals on various frequencies to mobile phones within range, connected to a mobile power supply, signal distribution box, and three mobile phones.

korean fsb3 — Police Colonel Trairong Phiwphan questions the South Korean SMS scam suspect (in white shirt) through an interpreter on August 20, 2025.

Chinese Connection Revealed

When police examined Kim’s mobile phone, they found conversation messages between the suspect and his Chinese employer via Telegram application. Kim confessed to being hired to drive around Bangkok sending SMS messages in crowded areas along designated routes, reporting to his employer every 30 minutes.

Kim admitted to conducting operations three times from August 17-19, receiving 100,000 won (72 USD) per day, though his first week of work paid 550 USD total.

Police charged Kim with related offenses and are investigating whether his Chinese employer is connected to previous arrests, while expanding the investigation to other accomplices.

Multiple Criminal Charges

Police Colonel Trairong said such activities constitute organized crime charges and potentially several other offenses. If victims are identified, charges would include conspiracy to commit fraud. If connections to overseas criminals are proven, charges would include participation in transnational criminal organizations. Since FBS devices aren’t sold in Thailand, importing or possessing them also violates customs law.

How the Scam Works

FBS devices can change sender names to mimic legitimate messages by cutting victims’ actual mobile network signals before sending fake messages. Users can detect this when phone signals rapidly degrade from 5G to 3G or lower within short periods. Citizens should be suspicious of messages from mobile providers they don’t use (such as receiving DTAC messages while using AIS) or messages containing suspicious links.

“Scammers are returning to hiring people to drive around sending money-draining links like before, so I want to warn citizens to be careful. Remember that banks or shopping centers will never send links requesting personal information,” Police Colonel Trairong said.

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Myanmar Transfers 94 Chinese Scammers to China via Thailand

By

Khaosod English

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20 August 2025, 14:46

scammers aug-3 — Chinese nationals board a chartered China Southern Airlines flight at Mae Sot International Airport during their repatriation from Myanmar to China on August 20, 2025.

MAE SOT — Myanmar security authorities in Myawaddy province transferred 94 Chinese nationals linked to the latest scammer network crackdown to Chinese officials through the Thai border on Wednesday, including 14 high-level leaders wanted by Chinese authorities.

At 11:00 a.m. on August 20, Myawaddy provincial security officials and Border Guard Force (BGF) troops brought 94 Chinese nationals connected to recently dismantled scammer networks to the Myawaddy-Mae Sot Permanent Border Checkpoint No. 2, handing them over to senior Chinese officials on the Thai side.

Border Processing and Transfer

Upon arrival of buses transporting the Chinese nationals at Mae Sot Permanent Border Checkpoint No. 2, Mae Sot district security officials processed all individuals through Thai immigration procedures under military escort. The identification process took over one hour before authorities organized a convoy to transport all Chinese nationals to Mae Sot International Airport.

scammers aug 1 — Thai and Chinese officials oversee the transfer of 94 Chinese nationals from buses to aircraft at Mae Sot International Airport, on August 20, 2025.

At Mae Sot International Airport, two chartered China Southern Airlines aircraft awaited the transfer. Thai officials drove buses directly to aircraft doors, where Chinese police and airline security personnel conducted strict document checks and body searches of all 94 individuals.

Reports indicate 14 of the transferred Chinese nationals were wanted by Chinese authorities and held under special custody arrangements. Both Chinese aircraft then departed Mae Sot International Airport, transporting all 94 individuals to China for separate interrogation and prosecution.

scammers aug 2 — Chinese nationals board a chartered China Southern Airlines flight at Mae Sot International Airport during their repatriation from Myanmar to China on August 20, 2025.

Ongoing Regional Crackdown

Myawaddy province in Myanmar, located directly across the border from Mae Sot district in Tak province, has faced pressure from Thai and Chinese authorities to seriously crack down on scammer networks. The area has become notorious for new city construction projects serving as bases and money-laundering hubs along the Thai-Myanmar border.

Since February 20 this year, thousands of scammers – both voluntary participants and human trafficking victims – have been repatriated to their home countries.

The crackdown continues as scammer networks adapt by relocating their facilities and modifying operations to evade ongoing suppression efforts.

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Jay Fai Restaurant Fined Over Menu Pricing After YouTuber Complaint

By

Khaosod English

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20 August 2025, 12:48

jay fai-michelin2 — Crab omelet, Jay Fai's signature dish

BANGKOK — Consumer protection authorities fined Bangkok’s Michelin-starred Jay Fai restaurant 2,000 baht on August 20 for failing to clearly display menu prices after YouTuber complaints.

The Office of Consumer Protection Board, Department of Internal Trade, and Consumer Protection Police inspected the restaurant at Samranrat intersection, Phra Nakhon District, following complaints that customers were charged 4,000 baht ($123) for crab omelets listed at 1,500 baht ($42).

Pisit Apichanapong, Senior Commercial Academic Officer from the Department of Internal Trade, said the restaurant violated the Goods and Services Pricing Act by not displaying the higher-priced option. Violations carry a maximum fine of 10,000 baht, but officials fined Jay Fai 2,000 baht ($61).

Officials ordered the restaurant to create clear signage showing two crab omelet options: regular (1,500 baht) and special (4,000 baht). The restaurant agreed to comply with the pricing regulations.

je fai police3 — Michelin star chef Jay Fai

Background of the Controversy

The controversy began when YouTuber PEACHII, who has 1.61 million subscribers and lives in London, took a foreign friend to the renowned street food stall and was taken aback by the final bill.

“I can understand that Jay Fai’s crab omelet with quality crab is expensive, but I didn’t order anything special and wasn’t told in advance that prices vary from the menu (the menu shows 1,500 baht per dish). I only found out when the bill came,” PEACHII wrote on social media platform X.

She explained that the restaurant had “upgraded” the crab meat without prior notice, adding: “When a menu shows one price but suddenly the chef adjusts the size/ingredients at will, they should write a price range from the beginning. It was delicious in the end, but it spoiled the experience.”

omelet michelin jai fai — The menu shows Crab Omelet for 1,500 baht ($42) per dish.

Official Investigation Launched

The incident gained widespread attention on social media, prompting reporters to question Commerce Minister Jatuporn Buruspat, who ordered the Domestic Trade Department to investigate on Monday. However, officials had to wait as the restaurant typically operates only Wednesday through Saturday.

Udom Srisomsong, Deputy Director-General of the Domestic Trade Department, said “No official complaint has been lodged yet, but there is great public interest.”

YouTuber’s Follow-Up Explanation

PEACHII reposted another explanation on X Wednesday, prefacing that she wanted to prevent various speculations from spiraling out of control. On the day she visited Jay Fai restaurant, she went with a Thai senior friend and another foreign friend. The senior friend ordered all the food since she was a regular customer.

When Jay Fai saw the senior friend, she prepared the VVIP menu that she regularly serves to her. However, the senior friend had never paid attention to the bill or noticed the price difference, and staff couldn’t answer questions when asked. The restaurant had no intention to cheat or inflate prices.

“Peach was confused by the restaurant’s management because abroad, they don’t operate this way. There’s no assuming – they always ask and reconfirm ‘Do you want the usual?’ and customers must be informed about prices and what they’ll receive, whether it’s the same as usual or different.”

She said her reason for posting about this on social media wasn’t to demand anything. Whether it was the regular menu price or special price, she would have been comfortable paying if informed beforehand.

“I just wanted to share this experience so this kind of situation might be anticipated. In case others come to eat, they can specify whether they want the special version or not, because not everyone has seen the news or has prior information about special pricing.”

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US Troops Won’t Be Sent to Help Defend Ukraine, Trump Says

By

Associated Press

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20 August 2025, 11:13

Trump Russia Ukraine War — Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaks as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, seated from background left, France's President Emmanuel Macron and President Donald Trump listen during a meeting in the East Room of the White House, Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Tuesday offered his assurances that U.S. troops would not be sent to help defend Ukraine against Russia after seeming to leave open the possibility the day before.

Trump also said in a morning TV interview that Ukraine’s hopes of joining NATO and regaining the Crimean Peninsula from Russia are “impossible.”

The Republican president, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders held hours of talks at the White House on Monday aimed at bringing an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine. While answering questions from journalists, Trump did not rule out sending U.S. troops to participate in a European-led effort to defend Ukraine as part of security guarantees sought by Zelenskyy.

Trump said after his meeting in Alaska last week with Russian President Vladimir Putin that Putin was open to the idea of security guarantees for Ukraine.

But asked Tuesday on Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends” what assurances he could provide going forward and beyond his term that American troops would not be part of defending Ukraine’s border, Trump said, “Well, you have my assurance, and I’m president.”

Trump would have no control over the U.S. military after his term ends in January 2029.

AP25230710557983 — France’s President Emmanuel Macron, from left, President Donald Trump, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz participate in a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders in the East Room of the White House, Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt later on Tuesday emphasized that “U.S. boots will not be on the ground” as part of any potential peacekeeping mission.

The president also said in the interview that he is optimistic that a deal can be reached to end the Russian invasion, but he underscored that Ukraine will have to set aside its hope of getting back Crimea, which was seized by Russian forces in 2014, and its long-held aspirations of joining the NATO military alliance.

“Both of those things are impossible,” Trump said.

Putin, as part of any potential deal to pull his forces out of Ukraine, is looking for the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, as well as recognition of Crimea as Russian territory.

Trump on Monday said that he was arranging for direct talks between Putin and Zelenskyy.

But the Kremlin has not yet said whether Putin, who has resisted previous calls by Trump and others for direct negotiations on ending the war, is committed to a face-to-face meeting with the Ukrainian leader.

Asked whether Putin has promised Trump that he’ll meet directly with the Ukrainian leader, Leavitt responded affirmatively. “He has,” Leavitt said of Putin.

AP25230840738924 — Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaks in Lafayette Park, across from the White House, after meeting with President Donald Trump and European leaders Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Trump, early on Monday during talks with Zelenskyy and European leaders, said that he was pressing for three-way talks among Zelenskyy, Putin and himself.

But after speaking to Putin later in the day, Trump said that he was arranging first for a face-to-face between Zelenskyy and Putin and that three-way talks would follow if necessary.

“It was an idea that evolved in the course of the president’s conversations with both President Putin, President Zelensky and the European leaders yesterday,” Leavitt explained.

But when discussing a phone call held after the meeting between Trump and the Russian leader, Putin’s foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov gave no indication that either a bilateral or a trilateral meeting with Ukraine had been agreed.

Trump said he believed Putin’s course of action would become clear in the coming weeks.

“I think Putin is tired of it,” Trump said. “I think they’re all tired of it. But you never know. We’re going to find out about President Putin in the next couple of weeks. That I can tell you.”

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Chinese-Run Beauty Factory Busted in Thailand, 230K Items Seized

By

Khaosod English

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20 August 2025, 00:14

beauty product1 — Police investigators catalog seized beauty products during the raid on an illegal cosmetics manufacturing facility in Chachoengsao province.

CHACHOENGSAO — Thai authorities raided an unlicensed beauty product manufacturing facility in Chachoengsao province on August 19, seizing over 230,000 beauty products worth more than 20 million baht ($613,000) in what officials called a major consumer protection operation.

The Consumer Protection Crime Suppression Division (CPPD), working with provincial health officials and the Food and Drug Administration, executed a court-approved search warrant at the factory in Tha Kham sub-district, Bang Pakong district.

The facility was importing raw materials from China to manufacture beauty products for overseas export without proper licensing or product registration. Evidence showed the operation involved boiling, mixing, packaging and labeling beauty products that lacked required Thai-language labels and safety approvals.

beauty product3 — Thai authorities raid an unlicensed beauty product manufacturing facility in Chachoengsao province, seizing over 230,000 items.

Ms. Paphawee, 24, who managed the site for Chinese company directors, told police the factory had operated for eight months. She claimed her chemistry background qualified her to oversee ingredient mixing and production processes.

Major Safety Concerns

Police launched the investigation following complaints that unregistered cosmetics could cause allergic reactions and long-term skin damage to consumers.

The seizure of 234,699 items included popular brand names across multiple product categories: Tuscan Hills body wash and lotions, LACURA hand cream, Crayola bath products, and various seasonal hand soaps. The largest single seizure involved 105,000 pieces of LACURA hand cream.

beauty product2 — Police investigators catalog seized beauty products during the raid on an illegal cosmetics manufacturing facility in Chachoengsao province.

Legal Violations

Police Colonel Pattanasak Bubphasuwan, CPPD Commander, said the operation violated multiple provisions of Thailand’s Cosmetics Act, including manufacturing and selling unregistered cosmetics and producing products without proper Thai labeling.

The suspect faces prosecution for operating without permits and violating consumer protection laws.

Consumer Warning Issued

Colonel Pattanasak warned consumers to avoid suspiciously cheap health and beauty products with improper labeling or exaggerated advertising claims.

“Consumers risk becoming victims of false advertising and receiving counterfeit, poor-quality products that may cause allergic reactions,” he said.

The case highlights ongoing challenges with unlicensed manufacturing operations targeting export markets while potentially endangering consumer safety.

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Police Bust 6 Scammer and Mule Networks, Arrest 3 Chinese Bosses

By

Khaosod English

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19 August 2025, 22:49

metro police scam — Police Colonel Chotiwat, Commander of Metropolitan Police Investigation Division 9, announces the arrest of 6 scammer and money mule networks at a press conference on August 19, 2025.

BANGKOK — Metropolitan police investigators jointly announced the arrest of money mule and call center gangs across 6 networks, after criminal courts issued 44 arrest warrants. More than half of the suspects have been apprehended, including 3 Chinese bosses. Several networks were captured with cooperation from Sutthisan Police Station.

Police Colonel Chotiwat, Commander of Metropolitan Police Investigation Division 9, stated at a press conference on August 19 that these scammer groups were led by Chinese nationals. After defrauding victims, the Chinese groups would convert the money into digital assets and cash to take back to their country. Most money mule recruitment was done through Facebook pages.

Network 1 involved 6 Thai suspects who managed profits from criminal activities and withdrew money through the group’s accounts, with Chinese commanders controlling and planning operations. This network used luxury vehicle rentals and frequently changed residences to evade authorities, operating continuously since early 2025.

Network 2 saw authorities arrest Mr. Lei and Mr. Haithai, two Chinese bosses who controlled operations and managed finances, along with 3 Thai accomplices with divided roles including opening accounts, withdrawing money for commission shares, and renting accommodations. They received 1,000-2,000 baht per transaction.

This network’s fraud method involved claiming to be Ministry of Education officials offering deposit protection, leading victims to transfer 370,000 baht. Investigation revealed the two Chinese nationals rented a hotel on Ratchadaphisek Road as their base. Police raided and arrested everyone on organized crime charges. During the raid, they also found a Thai woman using drugs in the room, leading to additional charges for methamphetamine possession.

Network 3 emerged from a case where scammers sent messages claiming damaged packages and offering 500 baht compensation, but actually tricking victims into transferring money. They used money mules in two rounds: first, a Thai woman named Ms. Thida withdrew 814,000 baht, then Ms. Wanatra withdrew 1.6 million baht from corporate accounts.

Financial tracking revealed over 3 million baht in cash withdrawals, suggesting money from other victims was also processed through these mule accounts. This network was controlled by Mr. Weiming, a Chinese national, along with 4 Thai accomplices who opened mule accounts and withdrew money across multiple provinces including Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Regional Police Region 1 areas, and Bangkok.

Authorities issued 11 arrest warrants, successfully apprehending 5 suspects including Weiming, who was captured at a restaurant in Huai Khwang while eating. Weiming claimed he couldn’t speak Thai and requested an interpreter, initially denying involvement with scammers and money mules. He also claimed to have heart problems, but police investigation revealed this was merely acting. Police had key photographic evidence of Weiming collecting cash from the money mule group.

Network 4 involved 5 suspects: 2 brokers recruiting money mules, a withdrawal controller, an assistant commander, and a Chinese national controlling operations and distributing profits among accomplices.

Network 5 saw the arrest of 5 suspects including one foreign national, with seizure of communication equipment, SIM cards, multiple bank account books, and substantial cash from criminal proceeds. All 5 managed finances from defrauding victims regarding civil service retirement funds. After victims transferred money to the group’s accounts, suspects would withdraw cash from various branches to deliver to controllers.

Network 6 involved Nonthaburi City Police in arresting a group managing profits from scamming citizens through intimidating phone calls. After victims transferred money, financial controllers would order this suspect and accomplices to withdraw money under supervision. Metropolitan Investigation Team 9 is expanding the investigation into other accomplices.

Police Colonel Chotiwat added that other cases showed similar fraud patterns, with groups adapting by using hotel rooms in Bangkok as bases, constantly changing hotels while Thai money mules withdrew cash from ATMs to bring to Chinese bosses, rather than withdrawing from abroad.

“The popular area is Huai Khwang district in Sutthisan. Most money mules joining these operations were recruited through Facebook page advertisements, including both deceived Thais and voluntary participants,” Police Colonel Chotiwat stated.

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Thailand Imports 10,000 Sri Lankan Workers to Replace Cambodians

By

Khaosod English

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19 August 2025, 19:15

BANGKOK — Thailand’s Cabinet has approved importing 10,000 workers from Sri Lanka to address severe labor shortages following the exodus of Cambodian workers amid recent border tensions.

The decision, made at Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting, comes as many Cambodian laborers have returned home due to clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border, leaving Thai companies struggling with workforce shortages.

Labor Minister Phongkawin Jangrungreongkit announced that his ministry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Sri Lanka to bring in the initial 10,000 workers, with potential expansion to 30,000 after a month-long training period.

Five-Point Labor Strategy

The government has outlined a comprehensive approach to tackle the labor crisis through five key measures:

Domestic Workforce Mobilization: Thailand will deploy active-duty soldiers, well-behaved prisoners nearing release, and youth facility residents to work in manufacturing and agriculture sectors.
Migrant Worker Registration: Undocumented foreign workers currently in Thailand will be brought into the formal system to reduce illegal employment while immediately boosting the official workforce.
Diversified Labor Sources: Beyond Sri Lanka, Thailand is exploring workers from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Nepal to reduce dependence on traditional sources Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. This initiative could add an estimated 100,000 workers pending security approval.
Myanmar Refugee Integration: More than 40,000 Myanmar refugees in camps have been vetted for employment in labor-shortage industries as of August 19.
Technology Adoption: Long-term plans include encouraging businesses to upgrade skills and introduce automation to reduce foreign labor dependence.

Security Considerations

Labor Ministry Director-General Somchai Morakotsriwan emphasized that Thai workers will receive priority, followed by strict registration of migrant workers, particularly Cambodians, in coordination with security agencies.

“Thailand still needs foreign workers to boost the economy, but there must be balance with labor from several countries to avoid overdependence,” Somchai stated. “The private sector must adopt technology and innovation so labor shortages don’t hinder economic development.”

AP25223278886272 — With a guitar in hand, a Cambodian migrant worker carries his belongings in Kamrieng, after crossing the Daung International Border Check Point between Cambodia and Thailand on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Anton L. Delgado)

Humanitarian Measures

The government previously extended work authorization for approximately 90,000 Cambodian workers whose permits expired but cannot return home, allowing them to remain until June 7, 2025, for humanitarian reasons.

The labor diversification strategy represents Thailand’s effort to maintain economic stability while managing regional political tensions that have disrupted traditional migrant worker flows.

Undocumented Worker Rules

Meanwhile, the Department of Employment Services has established procedures for managing undocumented foreign workers:

Employer Registration: Employers must submit worker lists and work permit applications with fees within 15 days.
Document Preparation: Required documents including medical certificates, health insurance proof, or social security registration must be submitted to provincial or Bangkok employment offices within 60 days.
Biometric Data Collection: Foreign workers must complete identity data collection at Immigration Division 1, immigration offices, or designated locations within 60 days. Cambodian nationals must report to immigration officers initially within 60 days, then every 60 days thereafter.
Documentation for Other Nationalities: Workers from Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam with valid passports or travel documents can apply for temporary stay permits matching their work authorization period. Those without proper documentation must obtain these documents and complete visa procedures.
Family Provisions: Dependents under 18 years old can remain in Thailand under their parent’s rights and must register within the civil registration system once parents receive work permits. Those turning 18 who wish to work receive a special 60-day grace period to apply for work authorization.

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Bangkok Adds AI Cameras Following Malaysian Tourist Incident

By

Khaosod English

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19 August 2025, 17:58

sidewalk new2 — Tourists visit Erawan Shrine at Ratchaprasong Intersection

BANGKOK — Thai police and business operators in Bangkok’s Ratchaprasong area are implementing enhanced security measures, including AI-powered surveillance cameras, following a shocking incident where an unemployed former boxer set fire to two Malaysian tourists on August 7.

The attack occurred when the perpetrator doused the Malaysian couple with thinner before igniting them, causing severe injuries. Bystanders quickly intervened and apprehended the attacker before police arrived.

In response to the incident, Metropolitan Police Division 5 and Lumpini Police Station held a security meeting on August 19 at Gaysorn Plaza in Bangkok’s Pathumwan district to develop preventive measures for the bustling commercial area.

Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom, Commander of Metropolitan Police Division 5, convened the meeting with representatives from relevant agencies and private sector stakeholders. Attendees included Thapanee Sirisomboon, Director of Bangkok’s Homeless Protection Center, Pathumwan District Office representatives, the Ratchaprasong Business Association, and executives from major shopping centers including Big C Ratchadamri, The Market, Gaysorn Plaza, CentralWorld, and InterContinental Hotel.

meeting ratchaprasong — Metropolitan Police Division 5 Commander Pol. Lt. Col. Withawat Chinkham leads security meeting with Ratchaprasong business operators at Gaysorn Plaza, August 19, 2025.

malaysia setfire4 — Good Samaritans help Malaysian tourists who were set on fire by an unemployed man outside a shopping mall in Ratchadamri area on August 7, 2025.

The meeting, chaired by Pol. Col. Yingyot Suwanno, Superintendent of Lumpini Police Station, reached six key resolutions:

Victim Support and Recovery: Authorities will monitor the condition and provide assistance to the two injured Malaysian tourists throughout their recovery process.
Homeless Management: Coordinated efforts to manage homeless individuals and beggars in the Ratchaprasong business district to protect the area’s image and ensure tourist safety.
Criminal Detection: Enhanced measures to identify, warn against, and apprehend criminals disguising themselves as tourists who commit property crimes, including pickpocketing and currency exchange scams.
Technology Integration: Implementation of advanced CCTV systems and artificial intelligence technology to enhance tourist safety monitoring throughout the area.
Community Participation: Establishment of frameworks for public involvement in crime prevention and creating citizen reporting networks.
Traffic Management: Implementation of the “Ratchaprasong Model” traffic management system to ensure comprehensive safety in the commercial district while building confidence among tourists and local residents.

The Ratchaprasong intersection serves as Bangkok’s downtown core and a major tourist destination, making security improvements crucial for maintaining Thailand’s tourism industry reputation.

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ERGO Targets Thai Insurance Market with Digital-First Strategy

By

MC Marketing

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19 August 2025, 16:20

ergo3 — Mr. Theo Kokkalas, Chairman of the Board of Management of ERGO International AG and Mr. Isorasak Thesratanavong, Chief Executive Officer, ERGO Insurance Thailand

ERGO Targets Thai Insurance Market with Global Vision
Driving growth through ‘Digital First’ Strategy

BANGKOK — ERGO Insurance (Thailand) Public Company Limited today announced a full-scale strategic expansion into Thailand’s insurance market, supported by the strength of ERGO Group, one of Germany’s and Europe’s leading insurance groups and part of Munich Re, a global leader in reinsurance and risk carriers.

Amid a worldwide insurance landscape facing challenges and new opportunities, the company is moving forward with a “Digital First” strategy as its core business direction, combining deep local market expertise with international standards.

ERGO is committed to delivering protection and services that meet customers’ needs today and anticipate those of tomorrow. The company is also accelerating the development of digital technologies to enhance operational efficiency and drive sustainable growth across Thailand.

Key examples include CamCom, an AI-powered system for assessing vehicle damage and condition in motor insurance, designed to make claims processing faster and more accurate, and set to be introduced soon for customer use. Another innovation, ERGO GPT is another innovation, an advanced AI tool supporting our employees. Designed to elevate work efficiency through faster and more accurate operations, it will soon be rolled out in Asia to provide personalized insurance advisory, streamline processes, and enhance customer service.

At the event, ERGO outlined its strategic direction and key initiatives for achieving sustainable growth, while introducing innovations and concepts that reflect the Group’s global vision, tailored for the Thai market.

Mr. Theo Kokkalas, Chairman of the Board of Management of ERGO International AG, said, “The Thai market is one of our three designated growth markets in Asia, alongside China and India. It plays a significant role in our international ERGO portfolio, and we see considerable potential here. Our goal is to achieve sustainable and profitable growth, ultimately positioning ourselves among the top five insurers wherever we operate. We are therefore committed to strengthening our presence in Thailand.”

ergo1 — Mr. Theo Kokkalas, Chairman of the Board of Management of ERGO International AG

“Every market has its dynamics, but the fundamentals of our approach remain unchanged: strong local capabilities supported by the global strength of our group. Diversifying and balancing risks across markets, regions, and business lines—fostering cross-border synergies and scaling successful initiatives—demonstrate the power of being a truly international group and are essential pillars of economic resilience and competitiveness,” Kokkalas added.

ERGO is one of the major insurance groups in Germany and Europe. The Group is represented in over 20 countries worldwide, focusing on Europe and Asia. About 37,000 people work either as salaried employees or self-employed sales representatives for the Group. In the 2024 financial year, ERGO generated insurance revenue of 20.8 billion euros and a net result of 810 million euros.

Mr. Isorasak Thesratanavong, Chief Executive Officer, ERGO Insurance Thailand, said, “As the first Thai CEO of ERGO Insurance Thailand, I am truly honored and immensely proud to have the opportunity to lead the brand into the future, leveraging over 15 years of my professional experience in the insurance industry. Our performance over the past year resulted in more than 5.1 million policies, serving over 3.7 million customers, reflecting the trust people have placed in us.

ergo2 — Mr. Isorasak Thesratanavong, Chief Executive Officer, ERGO Insurance Thailand

At ERGO, our mission is not just about selling policies, but to care for our customers’ lives and businesses at every moment. We are committed to building confidence among our customers, partners, employees, shareholders, and society through our ‘Digital First’ strategy, placing digital at the heart of everything we do – from delivering a superior customer experience, ensuring fast and accurate operations, to building a brand that is both accessible and trustworthy.”

“In addition, we continue to develop our Agent Platform to support agents and brokers, making their work more convenient and faster. This platform will consolidate complete and up-to-date information, enabling agents to access key data instantly and serve customers more effectively. This aligns perfectly with our goal – to make ERGO the Insurance Provider of Choice, not just for today, but for the future as well,” Isorasak added.

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How Chinese FM Uses Yunnan Tea to Secure Peace Between Thailand and Cambodia

By

Khaosod English

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19 August 2025, 15:54

Yunnan tea2 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, invites Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa to share in a tea gathering in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi invited Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn to a tea gathering in Anning in southwest China’s Yunnan Province on August 14, 2025.

The tea was aromatic, and as cups were raised in unison, the air remained harmonious. The talk on the Thailand-Cambodia border conflict was conducted in a friendly and candid manner.

How’s the Yunnan tea?

It tastes peaceful.

Anning, the meeting’s host city, implies “peace, harmony and amity” in Chinese.

In July, clashes erupted along the Thailand-Cambodia border. Thanks to efforts from China and the international community, a ceasefire agreement was reached.

During the tea gathering, Wang Yi remarked, “It’s better to resolve disputes than to prolong them.” He expressed hope that Thailand and Cambodia would jointly voice a “message of peace” in Anning. China supports both countries in rebuilding trust through dialogue and restoring normal cooperation.

The Thai and Cambodian foreign ministers expressed gratitude, emphasizing the value of peace and neighborly ties. They reaffirmed their commitment to the ceasefire and pledged to utilize dialogue mechanisms to resolve disputes peacefully.
Only by cherishing peace, can we step into a shared future.

How’s the Yunnan tea?

It tastes brotherly.

China and Mekong countries are inseparable neighbors and brothers.

When meeting Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, Wang Yi highlighted the deepening “China-Thailand kinship” and the advancing practical cooperation.
When meeting Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, Wang Yi described China and Cambodia as “ironclad friends” and an all-weather community with a shared future. They need to support and assist each other.

China and Mekong countries are close as brothers. The LMC, after a decade of cultivation, has flourished. The idea of “drinking from the same river and sharing a bright future” are well-accepted by folks in the region.

Over the past decade, China and the five Mekong countries have deepened strategic mutual trust, achieving the full coverage of bilateral communities with a shared future. Having established the overarching goal of building a Lancang-Mekong community with a shared future, the six countries become good neighbors, close friends and trusted partners for each other.

mekong2025 2 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (center) with Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhun (left) and Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa (right) at the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation meeting in Yunnan, China, on August 14, 2025.

How’s the Yunnan tea?

It has a taste of growth.

Peace is the foundation for development.
Over the past decade, the Lancang-Mekong Economic Development Belt has taken off. Bilateral trade between China and the five Mekong countries has reached $437 billion, marking a 125% increase. Regional infrastructure has seen more connectivity in both physical and institutional terms, cooperation in industrial and supply chains has been deepened, and the LMC innovation corridor has emerged as a new highlight of regional development.

During the 10 years, Wang added, the peoples of Lancang-Mekong countries have grown closer. The “Lancang-Mekong Visa” initiative has facilitated exchanges, while 991 “small yet smart” projects supported by the LMC Special Fund have benefited the peoples of all six countries. We have stood together in combating natural disasters and COVID-19, advanced law enforcement and security cooperation, and jointly fought transnational crimes to safeguard public health and regional stability.

Yunnan tea1 — Foreign ministers from China, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam pose for a group photo during the 10th Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Anning, southwest China’s Yunnan province, Aug 15, 2025. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

In the future, the six countries should chart a clearer blueprint, demonstrate firmer resolve, and take more concrete actions to build the “LMC 2.0” — characterized by solidarity, open cooperation, green innovation, and enduring peace. Together, we will usher in a new golden decade for LMC and accelerate the building of a Lancang-Mekong community with a shared future dedicated to peace and prosperity, Wang noted.

“We will unite with unwavering commitment, replacing empty talk with bulldozer-like action to open a new chapter in the LMC cooperation. We will jointly built up our shared neighborhood of peace, security, prosperity, beauty and amity — making new and greater contributions to building a community with a shared future in our region.”

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Source :Mekong News Network, Xinhua, Yunnan Daily

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