Tourist ferry carrying vehicles heading to Koh Chang, Trat province.
TRAT — Despite the Thai-Cambodian ceasefire agreement, Koh Chang tourism operators remain skeptical about recovery prospects in Trat province as spooked tourists stay away. Business owners are calling for government compensation, fearing the situation could drag into the high season.
Before the military clashes between Thailand and Cambodia in late July, Trat province tourism was thriving. Koh Chang, Koh Kood, and Koh Mak had become magnets for both domestic and international visitors seeking alternatives to Thailand’s busier Andaman destinations.
However, the clashes that spilled into Trat province and led to martial law declarations in some areas have severely impacted the province’s tourism sector despite operators’ efforts to assure visitors that tourist areas remain unaffected.
Tourists wait to board a ferry to Koh Chang in Trat province on August 7, 2025.
Saksit Moongkarn, a hotel operator on Koh Chang and former chairman of Trat Tourism Industry Council, believes that while a ceasefire has been declared, political uncertainty on both sides has left the private sector lacking confidence. The situation has also directly impacted labor issues.
“Cambodian workers, who are crucial to our service and construction sectors, have been gradually returning home since last month. Currently, almost no Cambodian workers remain on Koh Chang, except for those who have settled here permanently with families,” he said.
To address current challenges, operators have turned to local Thai workers and student interns to replace the missing workforce, which helps sustain hotel and restaurant services. However, the construction sector has been hit hardest, now relying only on some workers from the Northeast region.
Tourists board a ferry to Koh Chang in Trat province on August 7, 2025.
Pornthip Suntharakij, manager of Chaichet Resort, revealed that the tourism atmosphere on Koh Chang has become eerily quiet since the border situation began. Many customers have postponed stays and canceled bookings, particularly seminar groups who were key clients during this period. Despite assurances that Koh Chang remains accessible and safe, resort bookings have dropped nearly 90%, with other island operators likely facing similar problems.
“Beyond tourist issues, employment has been affected as some Cambodian workers have requested temporary returns home due to family concerns and worries about their property, despite our understanding and good care,” she said.
Pornthip called for government relief measures for those affected, even if not directly in border areas, citing bank loan obligations. She requested assistance such as reduced interest rates, extended payment terms, or other relief measures like previous programs, noting concerns the situation could persist into the year-end high season, causing massive impact.
Police question two Chinese men and one Thai woman in scam case at Phuping Palace Police Station in Chang Phueak subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai district on August 7, 2025.
CHIANG MAI — Thai police have uncovered a new type of Chinese scamming operation after arresting three suspects—two Chinese nationals and one Thai woman—hired to withdraw cash from mule accounts in Chiang Mai Province, seizing evidence worth millions of baht.
Lt. Gen. Krittapol Yisakorn, Commander of Provincial Police Region 5, announced the arrest results at Phuping Palace Police Station in Chang Phueak subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai district on August 7. The investigation began after receiving intelligence about suspicious cash withdrawal transactions by Chinese nationals in downtown Chiang Mai, leading officers to monitor TMBThanachart Bank at Central Chiang Mai Airport shopping center.
Million-Baht Cash Seizure
On August 5, the three suspects—Mr. Qin, 29, Chinese national; Mr. Zhang, 30, Chinese national; and Ms. Sudarat, 40, Thai national—went to conduct transactions by withdrawing money from TMBThanachart Bank. Police immediately arrested them and brought them for questioning at the Region 5 Technology Crime Suppression Center.
Officers discovered 530,000 baht in cash hidden in Mr. Qin’s backpack along with one mobile phone, and 610,000 baht ($18,860) in cash hidden in Mr. Zhang’s backpack along with three mobile phones, totaling 1,140,000 baht ($35,250). Ms. Sudarat was found with three bank account books, two ATM cards, and one mobile phone.
Confessions Reveal Organized Network
Both Chinese men confessed through interpreters that they received orders from a Chinese boss to travel from China to Thailand on tourist visas. Their job was to collect cash from Thai mule accounts and deposit the money into various bank accounts as instructed. They had conducted this operation more than 10 times across different mule accounts, receiving 300 yuan (approximately $42) per day as compensation.
Ms. Sudarat stated that she withdrew cash from banks using her own accounts on orders from the two Chinese men, without knowing the money’s origin. She received 5,000 baht ($155) for opening accounts and withdrawing money.
Expanded Investigation Reveals Multiple Victims
After confirming the suspects’ crimes, Phuping Palace Police Station investigators obtained arrest warrants from Chiang Mai Provincial Court, charging all three with conspiracy to defraud the public by impersonation. The investigation expanded to include Mr. Suthathorn, who allegedly recruited Ms. Sudarat to work as a cash withdrawer for the Chinese operation.
Police arrest a Chinese suspect while withdrawing money from TMBThanachart Bank in Chang Phueak subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai on August 5, 2025.
The investigation found victims who were deceived by the criminal group into completing tasks for rewards, transferring 538,669.60 baht into Ms. Sudarat’s Krung Thai Bank account on August 5—the exact amount withdrawn from the bank and seized by authorities.
Nationwide Fraud Network
Additional victims have filed complaints at multiple police stations:
Bang Rak Police Station, Bangkok (case transferred to Phuping Palace Police Station)
Ko Hong Police Station, Songkhla Province: damages of 108,709 baht (approximately $3,360)
Hat Yai Police Station, Songkhla Province: damages of 74,515 baht (approximately $2,300)
“Chinese gangs have now changed their system. They hire Chinese people to stay in Thailand and recruit Thais to open mule accounts for 5,000-10,000 baht each, to deceive both Thai and Chinese people into transferring money into these mule accounts. Then they control the account owners to withdraw cash and feed the money into their call center gang system to avoid tracking,” Lt. Gen. Krittapol explained.
The case remains under investigation to determine if there are additional victims, enabling authorities to return seized assets to those affected.
Police discover seven Korean nationals and one Chinese man working as scammers in a commercial building in Huay Yai subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province, on August 7, 2025.
CHONBURI — What began as a distress call from a beaten Korean man has led Thai authorities to uncover a major international scamming operation, resulting in the arrest of eight suspects and the discovery of a sophisticated scam call center network.
The case started Wednesday evening when Korean embassy officials alerted Thai police after a Korean man in Pattaya contacted the embassy seeking help, claiming he was being assaulted at a house in Na Jomtien, Chonburi Province.
Tourist police, working with Chonburi immigration officers, mobilized search teams and found Mr. Hyun (pseudonym), 31, at a single-story house in the Na Jomtien area at 11:00 p.m. on August 6. The victim showed visible signs of assault with injuries to his face and head, strangulation marks on his neck, and bruises covering his body.
While Hyun appeared relieved when police rescued him, investigators discovered his name was connected to a group of 22 Koreans arrested on June 21 at a luxury pool villa in Pattaya. That group had been using Thailand as a base for scamming operations and illegal loan sharking.
Police interrogate Mr. Hyun, a 31-year-old Korean national, at Tourist Police Station 1 on August 7, after rescuing him and discovering his connection to a scammer network in Chonburi Province that was recently busted in June.
Network Expands Beyond Initial Rescue
Following Hyun’s interrogation, police expanded their investigation to residences in Bang Lamung district. At the first house, they found two Korean men, one Chinese man, and one Korean woman. The second house yielded four Korean men. All suspects confirmed their network operated a scamming base in the Huay Yai area of Bang Lamung district.
Officers then raided the primary operation site—a two-story commercial building that had been divided into 10 glass-partitioned rooms, each equipped with computers, mobile phones, and related equipment.
Suspects revealed this served as the network’s first station, featuring two medium-sized rooms used to deceive victims by impersonating government officials, and one large room serving as the command center for supervisors.
Police inspect the inside of a commercial building in Huay Yai subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province, on August 7, 2025.
Sophisticated Operation Partially Dismantled
Inside the building, investigators found evidence that the operation had been hastily dismantled, with some equipment already removed and accomplices likely having fled beforehand. Police were able to seize 17 laptops and desktop computers, 15 mobile phones, and internet router boxes. Huay Yai police station officers joined the investigation to assist with evidence processing.
The raids resulted in the arrest of eight individuals: seven Koreans (six men aged 21-35 and one woman aged 25) and one Chinese man aged 23. All suspects admitted to working as scammers during questioning.
The arrested individuals have been transferred to Chonburi Immigration for visa revocation proceedings before being sent to Huay Yai Police Station for further investigation and prosecution, along with all seized evidence.
The discovery highlights the growing problem of international criminal networks using Thailand as a base for transnational fraud operations targeting victims across multiple countries.
The 2025 WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition (July 30 - August 5) at EmSphere Bangkok attracted a world-record 2,337 entries, marking a new era for competitive poker in Thailand. (Photo: Facebook WPT Prime Thailand)
BANGKOK — While poker may be recognized as a sport worldwide, in Thailand, efforts to decriminalize the card game are part of a larger political game linked to plans for entertainment complexes
The debate flared up again when acting Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced on July 30, 2025, that he had signed an order repealing a 1958 Interior Ministry directive, paving the way for legislative changes that would decriminalize poker.
Critics were quick to accuse the ruling Pheu Thai Party of using poker as a stepping stone to legalize casinos, a controversial aspect of the broader plan to boost the economy through entertainment complexes.
Key figures in the Bhumjaithai Party and other politicians opposed to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra criticized the move. They argued that the legalization of poker was inappropriate at a time when Thailand is facing heightened tensions with Cambodia.
Acting Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai answers questions from the media during the Ministry of Interior civil service policy presentation event at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani on August 7, 2025.
Elevating Poker to Sport Status
On August 7, Phumtham defended the policy, pointing out that the current poker regulation has been in place for over 67 years. International sports bodies recognize poker as a sport, and Thailand’s own Poker Sports Association has long pushed for recognition to allow participation in global tournaments.
He emphasized that the legislative changes were necessary to allow official competitions and that a legal oversight committee had already been established. He clarified that the move would not allow unrestricted gambling.
Instead, all poker-related activities would still need approval from provincial authorities, with final approval from the provincial administration’s director general and the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
“Do not turn a national policy solution into something it is not. This has nothing to do with private interests but follows the suggestions of the Poker Sports Association,” Phumtham explained.
The 2025 WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition (July 30 – August 5) at EmSphere Bangkok attracted a world-record 2,337 entries, marking a new era for competitive poker in Thailand. (Photo: Facebook WPT Prime Thailand)
Poker Debate Mirrors Casino Opposition
The long-standing debate over poker in Thai society mirrors the controversy surrounding casinos. Proponents argue that legalizing the game would curb illegal underground gambling and reduce police corruption through regulatory oversight. Bringing underground businesses to the surface would allow the government to collect taxes from gambling and reduce the influence of various powerful groups.
Opponents, however, fear that legalization would encourage addiction and social decay, and they continue to campaign vigorously against legalization.
Previously, on July 9, the Pheu Thai-led government withdrew its Entertainment Complex Bill, which included provisions for legal casinos, after losing majority support following the Bhumjaithai Party’s departure from the coalition.
Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul, who had welcomed the withdrawal of the bill, took the opportunity to attack Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accusing her of ignoring Chinese President Xi Jinping’s repeated warnings against legalizing gambling. He claimed that this policy had contributed to a steep decline in Chinese tourism to Thailand.
Paetongtarn hit back, saying Anutin had distorted the facts.
Nonthaburi Police raid a luxuriously decorated hotel casino and arrest 49 gamblers and employees on November 29, 2023.
Thailand Eyes Hosting Global Poker Tournaments
Krisada Tanterdthit, Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, said poker is a strategic sport played by international athletes, celebrities, and businesspeople. He pointed out that the Sports Authority of Thailand has already recognized poker as an official sport and that public demonstrations have been held to raise awareness.
“Poker is not a game of chance, as many mistakenly believe. It is a sport that requires skill, planning, and strategy. The key is to explain to the public how poker as a sport differs from gambling,” Krisada explained.
He added that many Thai players, despite already competing internationally, are forced to train and play abroad due to legal restrictions at home. The new regulations would allow Thailand to host international poker events, taking advantage of its strong infrastructure.
“We estimate that poker could bring in at least 10 billion baht (about $275 million) per year and create more than 1,000 jobs, especially in the tourism and service sectors—if everything is properly regulated. It would also attract high-spending international visitors, which aligns with the government’s strategy for quality tourism,” Krisada said.
Poonpipat Co., Ltd., the industrial real estate developer with over 60 years of experience under the Poonphol Group (PPG), is partnering with ONNEX SOLAR by SCG to enhance the development of solar rooftop projects at its warehouse facilities. This initiative aligns with the global transition toward clean energy, reinforcing the company’s commitment to driving long-term, sustainable business growth.
Ms.Atitaya Pongsittisak, Director of Business Development at Poonpipat Co., Ltd., remarted that due to the continuous electricity demand in warehouse operations, managing energy costs has become a crucial factor in maintaining business competitiveness. A survey by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) revealed that 54.9% of respondents reported electricity expenses accounting for 15–30% of their total production costs. This highlights energy cost a critical factor that requires be strategic management. Moreover, with increasing energy price volatility and evolving environmental policies from both the government and consumers, businesses must adapt—not only to ensure survival, but also to achieve responsible and sustainable growth.
According to SCG International, the installations of a solar rooftop system can lead to a reduction in electricity costs by as much as 30–50% per month during daytime operations. For medium-sized factories, this solution can also lower the carbon footprint by more than 500 tons per year.
Marriott Bonvoy members can now redeem points for an exclusive package that blends an invigorating neighborhood run and ice bath with EKKALUCK’s all-new signature rooftop poolside breakfast
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection, the stylish boutique hotel nestled in the Thai capital’s vibrant Thong Lor district, is giving health-conscious travelers the chance to “Sweat & Freeze” with an exclusive new Marriott Bonvoy Moments package crafted in collaboration with iwelty, a wellness club that brings the concept of FRIENDS FULL FIT “Urban Series” to life.Following this inspiring and invigorating morning, Marriott Bonvoy members can unwind and indulge in the hotel’s first-ever poolside breakfast – an all-new signature culinary journey that showcases the acclaimed breakfast menu from EKKALUCK, in a stunning rooftop setting overlooking the Vitamin Dee Pool. The “Sweat & Freeze” package at Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection is exclusively available to
Marriott Bonvoy members who can use their points to redeem for this one-of-a-kind experience. Limited number of packages are available – simply click here https://moments.marriottbonvoy.com/en-us/moments/19803 to redeem for this experience from now until 23rd, 2025.
The “National Science and Technology Fair 2025” is happening nationwide throughout August under the theme SCIENCE IN ACTION! FOR SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES, empowering youth to build a sustainable future. The grand opening runs from August 9-17, 2025, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Halls 5–6, LG Floor, transforming over 10,000 square meters into an interactive learning space where you can experiment, think and truly have fun. All for Free!
The National Science Museum Thailand (NSM), on behalf of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), is organizing the National Science and Technology Fair 2025 (NST Fair 2025) on a grand scale both in Bangkok and across the regions. The event aims to raise awareness and understanding of science and technology in the context of global change.
Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Minister of MHESI
Visitors will experience hands-on science that is practical, thought-provoking, and fun fostering participation in building a science-based society and preparing for future challenges.
On August 5, Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Minister of MHESI, stated that the fair is held annually to celebrate National Science Day on August 18, honoring King Rama IV, the “Father of Thai Science”, King Rama IX, the “Father of Thai Technology” and the “Father of Thai Innovation”, and King Rama X and the royal family for their contributions to science and technology in Thailand.
“This is not just an academic exhibition, but a space for everyone to discover their potential through diverse and enjoyable experiences. We invite all Thais to be inspired and to expand their imagination to drive the country forward with science and innovation.”
“NST FAIR” aligns with MHESI’s mission to drive the country through knowledge and human capital under the policy “Empowering Minds, Creating Opportunities, Building Thailand’s Future.” It covers two of our missions;
Human capital development can promote lifelong learning and equip people with future-ready skills through educational innovation, bioeconomy, and digital technology.
Science, research, and innovation development enhancing ecosystems that translate research into business and industry applications, boosting national competitiveness in economy, society, and security.”
Mr. Suwarong Wongsiri, Acting President of NSM, the main event organizer added that “NST fair 2025 will take place nationwide to reach youth in all regions. The central event will take place from August 9–17, 2025, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Halls 5–6, LG Floor, transforming over 10,000 square meters into an interactive learning space.
Mr. Suwarong Wongsiri, Acting President of NSM
The central event will feature collaboration from 8 countries and 97 organizations, creating a hands-on science experience that is practical, thought-provoking, and fun. Also, regional events will be co-hosted with universities and local agencies to tailor content to each area and make this year’s event even bigger”.
Event Highlights:
Quantum Quest Exhibition – Let’s dive into the quantum world that powers future technologies. Explore the atomic universe and the mysterious nature of particles that live around us. Don’t miss the Quantum Tunnel and the talk “Quantum: My View, Your View” by Dr. Buncha Thanaboonsombat, the renowned science communicator and author of “Quantum: From Mystery to Quantum Computer” and Dr. Siwinee Sawataree, Head of Electrical Metrology at the National Institute of Metrology (Thailand).
Brain Inside Out Exhibition – Discover how the human brain works across all ages. Experience a giant neural network dome that simulates the brain’s intricate web of connections and join the talk “Understanding the Brain in a Changing World” to get into the emotional and psychological impacts of modern life, where uncertainty and environmental stressors shape our mental well-being. with experts like Dr. Chaipat Chunharas, Neurologist at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, and Dr. Tanthai Prasertkul, a science communicator.
Mystery of Svalbard Exhibition – Learn about the global seed vault in Svalbard. The vault that serves as a backup storage facility for the world’s crop diversity and a vital safeguard for humanity’s food security. Enjoy a 360° virtual tour and understand the importance of seed preservation in disaster preparedness.
Little Inventor Zone – A creative space for children aged 3–7 to explore basic mechanics and invent fun gadgets.
And don’t miss the Science Stamp Activity, A hybrid online-offline challenge with 7 creative science missions. Participants complete tasks, share photos/videos on social media
and collect digital stamps via LINE @nstfairthailand. Completing all missions earns a digital certificate and a chance to win special prizes — promoting science, communication, and digital creativity.
Regional Events – To reduce inequality and connect science with local identity, the fair will also be held in three regions:
South: August 6–8 at Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai Campus, Songkhla featuring “The Beach: The Treasure of the South” exhibition that will take you to explore the rich biodiversity and ecological significance of southern Thailand’s coastal environments.
North: August 14–16 at Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai featuring “Seed Traits of the Northern Tales” exhibition to get into the cultural and agricultural heritage of the Lanna region.
Northeast: August 18–20 at Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen featuring “The Rocket Maker: Isan Inspiration” exhibition, linking local rocket wisdom with space technology.
Everyone is invited to join this event for free! Let’s join us to be part of building a science-driven, innovation-powered society for a sustainable future.
CK Power Public Company Limited (CKPower, SET: CKP) led by Mr. Vorapote Uchoepaiboonvong, Executive Committee, together with Mrs. Muntana Auekitkarjorn, Senior Deputy Managing Director, Corporate Planning, presented a contribution of THB 1,000,000 (One million baht) to the 2nd Army Area. This support is intended to enhance the operations of border security forces in safeguarding national sovereignty and maintaining the country’s security and stability. Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, Commander of Thailand’s 2nd Army Region, graciously accepted the donation at Suranaree Camp, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, sixth left, Thai and Cambodian delegates led by Thai Deputy Defense Minister Natthaphon Narkphanit, seventh left, and Cambodian Defense Minister General Tea Seiha, fifth left, pose for a group photo ahead of the Extraordinary General Border Committee (GBC) to discuss their border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. (Hasnoor Hussain/Pool Photo via AP)
By EILEEN NG
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Thailand and Cambodia agreed Thursday to establish interim observer teams to monitor a fragile ceasefire that ended five days of of deadly armed border clashes, even as the fate of 18 Cambodian soldiers captured by Thailand remains unresolved.
The first meeting of the General Border Committee concluded after four days of talks in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, with a focus on ensuring the full implementation of the ceasefire brokered by Malaysia on July 28.
Dozens of people were killed and over 260,000 displaced on both sides of the Thai-Cambodian border, when fighting began after a land mine explosion along the border wounded five Thai soldiers.
According to a joint statement from the committee, each country will set up its own interim observer team comprising defense officials from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and coordinated by the bloc’s annual chair Malaysia, pending the deployment of a formal ASEAN observer mission. The interim teams will operate within their respective borders and work closely with local military authorities.
Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, sixth left, Thai and Cambodian delegates led by Thai Deputy Defense Minister Natthaphon Narkphanit, seventh left, and Cambodian Defense Minister General Tea Seiha, fifth left, pose for a group photo ahead of the Extraordinary General Border Committee (GBC) to discuss their border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. (Hasnoor Hussain/Pool Photo via AP)
The main meeting Thursday was chaired by Cambodian Defense Minister Gen. Tea Seiha and Thailand’s Deputy Defense Minister Gen. Natthaphon Nakpanit. Malaysian Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin, along with representatives from the U.S. and China, attended as observers.
U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan said after the meeting that the outcome was an important milestone.
“The U.S. believes this is an important step. However it’s important to recognize this is only a step. The goal here is a durable sustainable ceasefire, one that is able to be accepted and enforced by both sides,” he told reporters. He said the U.S. would work closely with Malaysia and ASEAN to monitor the truce.
The July 28 ceasefire followed economic pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who had warned the warring nations that the U.S. would not conclude trade deals with them if the fighting persisted. Washington lowered tariffs on goods from the two countries from 36% to 19% on Aug. 1.
Thai Deputy Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit reacts during a news conference after a meeting of the Extraordinary General Border Committee (GBC) to discuss the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodian, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. (Hasnoor Hussain/Pool Photo via AP)
However, tensions persisted as each country accused the other of violating the agreements and organized tours of the former battle areas for foreign diplomats and other observers to highlight damage allegedly caused by the other side.
The two countries also continued to accuse each other of having violated international humanitarian laws with attacks on civilians and the use of illegal weapons.
While both sides reaffirmed commitments to halt hostilities, freeze troop movement and avoid provocations, the issue of the 18 Cambodian soldiers captured just hours after the ceasefire took effect remains a sticking point. The joint statement did not directly mention them but it noted that the captives should be “immediately released and repatriated after the cessation of active hostilities.” It didn’t clarify iwhether this refers to a formal end to the conflict.
Cambodian Defence Minister General Tea Seiha speaks at a news conference after a meeting of the Extraordinary General Border Committee (GBC) to discuss the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodian, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. (Hasnoor Hussain/Pool Photo via AP)
Cambodia had accused Thailand of mistreating the captured men. Two wounded members of the 20-man Cambodian group were repatriated on Friday.
Thai authorities, however, called the group “prisoners of war” and said they would only be freed and repatriated following an end to the conflict.
The Thai foreign ministry said in a separate statement Thursday that the 18 prisoners have been treated in full compliance with international humanitarian law. It said members of the International Committee of the Red Cross had visited them on Tuesday at their detention facility, and that the men were in good health and without any injury.
Cambodia and Thailand have clashed in the past over their 800-kilometer (500-mile) border. Tensions had been growing since May when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a confrontation that created a diplomatic rift and roiled Thailand’s domestic politics.
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Associated Press reporter Grant Peck in Bangkok and Sopheng Cheang in Cambodia contributed to this report.
An Immigration officer in Surat Thani questions a 36-year-old French fugitive wanted in France on drug trafficking charges, at Bo Phut Police Station on August 6, 2025.
KOH SAMUI — Immigration officers in Surat Thani have arrested a 36-year-old French national wanted in France on drug trafficking charges after he fled to Thailand to evade prosecution.
The arrest of Jordan (surname withheld) came following official coordination between the Immigration Bureau and the French Embassy, which requested assistance in tracking down the fugitive who had escaped to Thailand.
Immigration investigators in Surat Thani Province began checking accommodation records as required under Thailand’s Immigration Act, which mandates that landlords, property owners, or hotel managers must report foreign guests to immigration authorities within 24 hours of their arrival. The search led them to a rental room in Ban Lamai, Maret subdistrict, Koh Samui district.
During surveillance, officers observed that Jordan remained extremely cautious and had fled his accommodation. The arrest team then conducted a multi-day stakeout until the suspect secretly returned to his room, at which point they moved in to make the arrest on August 6.
Surat Thani Immigration officers arrest a 36-year-old French fugitive wanted in France on drug trafficking charges at his rental room on Koh Samui on August 6, 2025.
Jordan was found to have no passport in his possession. When officers checked his status through the biometric system, they discovered his permission to stay in Thailand had expired on August 5, 2024, meaning he had overstayed his visa by 365 days.
The suspect was transferred to Bo Phut Police Station for legal proceedings. After the domestic case is completed, he will be blacklisted from entering Thailand and extradited to France to face drug trafficking charges.
Police Lieutenant General Phanumas Boonlaksa, Commander of the Immigration Bureau, stated that the office has intensified monitoring of foreign nationals residing in Thailand who exhibit undesirable behavior.
The bureau now coordinates with origin countries to track information on foreign criminals who use Thailand as a hiding place or to launder their activities, or who come to commit crimes here, enabling rapid apprehension of suspects.
