A man from Udon Thani carries his beloved dog onto the back of a pickup truck, after the truck owner took pity on him when learning he would have to walk hundreds of kilometers to reach his destination because public buses do not allow dogs on board. April 9, 2025.
PHETCHABUN — A viral video circulating on Thai social media shows a man carrying a backpack and holding a Shih Tzu dog, walking along a road in extreme heat. He was attempting to reach a train station in Lam Narai district, Lopburi province, hundreds of kilometers away, until a kind stranger stopped to help.
Reporters later interviewed Mr. Aphichan, the good Samaritan who picked up the man and his dog. Aphichan, who owns a date palm garden in Phetchabun province, spotted the pair walking by his garden on April 8. Noticing the extreme heat, he offered water and asked about their destination.
The man explained he was from Udon Thani and had traveled with a friend for a welding job in Nong Phai, Phetchabun province. After only two weeks, the employer terminated their work and paid them just 1,000 baht ($28.6) each.
He planned to return home but buses refused to allow his dog onboard. With no alternative, he sent his belongings with his friend on the bus to Chai Badan district in Lopburi, while he began walking the 100-kilometer journey with his beloved 5-year-old dog, Nemo.
“After hearing his story, I felt so sorry for him,” said Aphichan, who drove the man to Lam Narai train station in Lopburi so he could return home to Udon Thani. The social media post garnered numerous comments praising Aphichan for his kindness, commending the dog owner for not abandoning his pet, and wishing them a safe journey home.
Ong Gim Wah, a 40-year-old Malaysian national, was sentenced to death by the Court of First Instance on March 4, 2025.
BANGKOK — Thailand’s Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has approved 15 million baht in rewards for the capture of major drug traffickers, announcing “The Most Wanted Drug Offenders Bounty Program” alongside news of a death sentence for transnational drug kingpin Ong Gim Wah.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanurat Lukboon, Secretary-General of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), and Mr. Panon Mekhanan, Director of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau of the ONCB, held a press conference on April 9 announcing the conviction of Mr. Ong Gim Wah, a major transnational drug trafficker who received the death penalty.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanurat highlighted the “Most Wanted Drug Offenders Bounty Program,” a program aimed at targeting high-level masterminds within drug networks. The program uses funds from Thailand’s Drug Control Fund to provide cash rewards as incentives for officers involved in major arrests.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanurat Lukboon, Secretary-General of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), and Mr. Panon Mekhanan, Director of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau of the ONCB, hold a press conference at the ONCB office on April 9, 2025.
For fiscal year 2025, the ONCB has set a target of arresting 200 people and approved 15 million baht ($434,065) for bounty. So far, 29 people have been arrested domestically and in neighboring countries, for which rewards of more than 10.8 million baht ($312,525) have been paid.
A key success of the program is the arrest and sentencing of Ong Gim Wah, a 40-year-old Malaysian national, who was sentenced to death by the Court of First Instance on March 4, 2025.
Mr. Ong Gim Wah was considered a major transnational drug trafficker and a key player in sourcing and coordinating drug trade operations from production hubs in the Golden Triangle. His network spanned several countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, China, Singapore, and Laos, with drugs smuggled through Thailand to third countries such as Malaysia, Taiwan, and Australia. He carried a bounty of 1 million baht ($28,935) under the ONCB’s program.
Ong Gim Wah carried a bounty of 1 million baht ($28,935) under the ONCB’s program.
The ONCB issued a warrant for his arrest following a major 2023 operation in Ratchaburi Province, where seven suspects were apprehended with 998 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine (ice). Mr. Ong fled and went into hiding in Laos, but through close cooperation between Thai and Lao authorities, he was captured in late 2023 and extradited to Thailand to face charges.
The arrest marked the end of a 17-year-long manhunt. Additionally, authorities have seized and frozen assets linked to Mr. Ong’s network, including over 85 million baht ($2.45 million) in Thailand and over 4 billion baht ($115.75 million) in Malaysia, aiming to dismantle the financial infrastructure of his transnational drug trafficking operation.
Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., the leader of health enrichment products under BRAND’S trademark in Thailand and Asia, has launched a campaign to celebrate the Songkran Festival 2025. The campaign, themed “Express your love with BRAND’S,Bring Hearts closer together” aims to promote love, care, and strong family bonds, as most families rarely express their feelings directly, or they “meet face-to-face but often hold back from expressing their true feelings”. With this year’s focus on sending well wishes through a collection of meaningful health gifts, the campaign encourages making Songkran more than just a reunion—it’s about truly caring for and connecting with loved ones on a deeper level.
According to Mr. Napis Sasivimolkul, Marketing Director for BRAND’S Bird’s Nest and BRAND’s Gifting, Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., “Songkran is a meaningful occasion when families come together to celebrate. We want BRAND’S to symbolize care and help convey good health to our loved ones through the campaign motto, “Express your love with BRAND’S,Bring Hearts closer together” . To make this Songkran a festival of joy and significance, we have designed this campaign to appeal to those who enjoy gifting their family members and those who wish to make merit with thoughtful care”.
To facilitate customers in expressing love and sharing good wishes, BRAND’S is offering an exclusive promotion with discounts of up to 15% on various health gift baskets and sets. Additionally, customers who spend 1,499 baht will receive a complimentary Wiggle Cooler Bag. These products will be available at Lotus’s, Big C, The Mall, and Tops locations from 26 March to 23 April 2025. Through this campaign, BRAND’S reaffirms its commitment to supporting good health while helping customers give thoughtful and meaningful gifts to their loved ones.
Mr. Napis highlighted another key feature of this year’s campaign: the launch of the merit-making pack designed to promote monks’ health. Priced at 155 baht, the package will be available at all 7-Eleven locations starting 20 March 2025. Customers can also enjoy a special promotion of the Empty Box merit-making pack, which allows them to choose from BRAND’S Chicken Essence or BRAND’S Bird’s Nest products to provide monks with wholesome nutrition. BRAND’S believes this initiative will foster a more health-conscious approach to merit-making.
In collaboration with UOB Bank, BRAND’S offers exclusive benefits to UOB credit card holders, enabling them to redeem health gift sets using their accrued points. Through the Rewards+ feature on the UOB TMRW app, customers can choose from a range of options, including BRAND’S Veta Vitamin A Berry Shot (42 ml × 6 bottles) for 1,950 points (valued at 209 baht), BRAND’S Essence of Chicken (42 ml × 6 bottles) for 2,200 points (valued at 229 baht), BRAND’S Bird’s Nest Xylitol (42 ml × 9 bottles) for 8,700 points (valued at 944 baht). Also, special gift hampers are also available: HAMPER A: BRAND’S Bird’s Nest Xylitol (42 ml × 10 bottles) for 10,200 points (valued at 1,099 baht), HAMPER B: BRAND’S Essence of Chicken and Classic Bird’s Nest (42 ml × 10 bottles) for 7,800 points (valued at 839 baht), HAMPER C: BRAND’S Essence of Chicken (42 ml × 10 bottles) for 3,800 points (valued at 409 baht). This initiative allows customers to gift themselves and their loved ones with good health, subject to the bank’s terms and conditions.
Mr. Napis concluded that “BRAND’S” is more than just a gift—it’s a heartfelt symbol of care and affection that can be genuinely conveyed. This Songkran, we hope everyone will take the opportunity to spend meaningful time with their families and share good health through BRAND’S products, whether it’s merit-making packs or thoughtful gift sets for loved ones.
For more details, check out BRAND’S World Thailand on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BRANDSWorldThailand or follow Line Official Account @brandsworld for updates and promotions.
Tourist Police observe the Israeli man leading groups of foreign children to attractions on Koh Phangan, displaying behavior consistent with that of a professional tour guide.
KOH PHANGAN — An Israeli man who claimed to be a former special forces soldier with extensive combat experience has been arrested on Koh Phangan Island for working as an unlicensed tour guide, charging tourists 8,000 baht ($230) per trip.
Tourist Police on Koh Phangan, Surat Thani province, revealed they received complaints about a foreigner illegally working as a tour guide which is a protected profession reserved only for Thai nationals. Foreigners who wish to operate a tour business must register as a legal entity to apply for a license from the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
The suspect was observed leading groups of foreign children to attractions including Wat Maduawan temple, displaying behavior consistent with that of a professional tour guide.
Following surveillance of the suspect, identified only as David, police observed him repeatedly taking groups of children to various activities, including swimming at waterfalls. He was seen ordering packed meals for the children’s lunch, paying entrance fees of 20 baht per person, and providing water and transportation arrangements for the foreign youths.
Staff at local attractions informed police that David frequently brought groups to the waterfall – 30 children on April 6, 19 on April 7, and 23 on April 8.
When investigators examined David’s WhatsApp account, they discovered a group that translates to “Nature Tours with Uncle,” where he solicited business from parents.
The service charged 800 baht ($23) per person for a single day and 6,000-8,000 baht ($173-230) per person for a weekly package. Tour destinations included Wat Maduawan, Wang Sai Waterfall, Khom Beach, and Zoo Cafe, with locations tailored to client preferences.
Tourist Police observe the Israeli man leading groups of foreign children to attractions on Koh Phangan, displaying behavior consistent with that of a professional tour guide.
With sufficient evidence gathered, police arrested the 45-year-old Israeli national at Wang Sai Waterfall in Koh Phangan. He faces multiple charges: operating an unlicensed tour business as a foreigner, working as an unlicensed tour guide, and performing work outside his permitted rights. The suspect was handed over to Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings.
During questioning, David admitted to leading groups of foreign children to various attractions and revealed that before coming to Thailand, he had served as a special forces soldier in the Israeli military and had seen combat.
Trucks line up to depart from a container terminal in Nanjing in east China's Jiangsu province on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. (Chinatopix Via AP)
BANGKOK (AP) — China again vowed to “fight to the end” Wednesday in an escalating trade war with the U.S. as it announced it would raise tariffs on American goods to 84% from Thursday.
Beijing also added an array of countermeasures after U.S. President Donald Trump raised the total tariff on imports from China to 104%. Beijing said it was launching an additional suit against the U.S. at the World Trade Organization and placed further restrictions on American companies’ trade with Chinese companies.
“If the U.S. insists on further escalating its economic and trade restrictions, China has the firm will and abundant means to take necessary countermeasures and fight to the end,” the Ministry of Commerce wrote in a statement introducing its white paper on trade with the U.S.
The government declined to say whether it would negotiate with the White House, as many other countries have started doing.
Pedestrian and office buildings are reflected on a brokerage house’s window as an electronic board displays Shanghai shares trading index in the Central Business District, in Beijing, Wednesday, April 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)
On Friday, China announced a 34% tariff on all goods imported from the U.S, export controls on rare earths minerals, and a slew of other measures in response to Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs. Trump then added an additional 50% tariff on goods from China, saying negotiations with them were terminated.
Wednesday’s newest measures include adding 11 American companies to a so-called “unreliable entities” list that would bar Chinese companies from selling them dual-use goods. Among the companies are American Photonics, and SYNEXXUS, both of whom work with the American military.
So far, China has not appeared interested in bargaining. “If the U.S. truly wants to resolve issues through dialogue and negotiation, it should adopt an attitude of equality, respect and mutual benefit,” said Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Lin Jian Wednesday.
The paper says that the U.S. has not honored the promises it made in the phase 1 trade deal concluded during Trump’s first term. As an example, it said that a U.S. law that would ban TikTok unless it is sold by its Chinese parent company violates a promise that neither would “pressure the other party to transfer technology to its own individuals.”
People walk by a vehicle charging at an electric vehicle charging station outside of a Tesla dealership, in Beijing, Wednesday, April 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)
Trump signed an order to keep TikTok running for another 75 days last week after a potential deal to sell the app to American owners was put on ice. ByteDance representatives called the White House to indicate that China would no longer approve the deal until there could be negotiations about trade and tariffs.
The paper also argued that taking into account trade in services and U.S. companies’ domestic Chinese branches, economic exchange between the two countries is “roughly in balance.”
It says that China had a trade in services deficit with the U.S. of $26.57 billion in 2023, which is composed of industries like insurance, banking and accounting. Trump’s tariffs were designed to close trade deficits with foreign countries, but those were calculated only based on trades in physical, tangible goods.
“History and facts have proven that the United States’ increase in tariffs will not solve its own problems,” said the statement from the Chinese commerce ministry. “Instead, it will trigger sharp fluctuations in financial markets, push up U.S. inflation pressure, weaken the U.S. industrial base and increase the risk of a U.S. economic recession, which will ultimately only backfire on itself.
A shopper checks out a Miami souvenir shirt made in China, at Bayside Marketplace, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)
US markets tumble toward more big losses after China retaliates
U.S. stock futures were sinking again in premarket trading after massive U.S. tariffs against China kicked in overnight, followed by China retaliating with a huge tariff increase on U.S. imports. Oil prices tumbled to their lowest level in more than four years and a huge sell-off in U.S. Treasurys sent bond yields soaring.
Futures for the S&P 500 fell 2% before the bell to 4,914.50. If those losses hold and the index closes below 4,915.32, it will be in what investors call a bear market.
Futures for the Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 2.4% and Nasdaq futures slumped 1.8%.
In contrast to the rest of the world, markets in China reversed toward small gains Wednesday after that country responded with an 84% tariff on U.S. goods, in retaliation for U.S. President Donald Trump’s 104% tariffs on the world’s second-largest economy that went into effect at midnight Wednesday.
Beijing also added an array of countermeasures after Trump’s massive tariffs on China kicked in.
“If the U.S. insists on further escalating its economic and trade restrictions, China has the firm will and abundant means to take necessary countermeasures and fight to the end,” the Ministry of Commerce wrote in a statement introducing its white paper on trade with the U.S.
Massive share buybacks by big state-run investment funds and other state companies that often are instructed to support Chinese markets in times of crisis helped boost stock prices.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rose 0.7%, while the Shanghai Composite index closed 1.3% higher.
Prices for U.S. crude oil skidded more than 5% to $56.38 per barrel, their lowest level since the February of 2021 when the U.S. and global economies were still emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. Rapidly falling oil prices often signal investor pessimism about economic growth and can signal a recession ahead.
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Huizong Wu reported from Bangkok. AP researcher Yu Bing and producer Liu Zheng contributed to this report from Beijing.
A Lithuanian man sits slumped outside the condominium room in Pattaya while emergency responders and Pattaya police provide first aid to his British friend who severely injured himself playing Russian roulette with a gun, late on April 8, 2025.
PATTAYA — In a shocking incident late Monday night, a British national was rushed to hospital with severe injuries after shooting himself in what appears to be a solo game of Russian roulette at a condominium in Pattaya, Thailand.
Pattaya City Police responded to reports of a foreigner with a self-inflicted gunshot wound at a condominium located in Soi Chaiyapruek 1, Soi 3, Nongprue, Banglamung District, Chonburi Province.
Police identified the victim as Michael James, a 30-year-old British citizen. When authorities arrived at the scene, they found him unconscious and bleeding from a gunshot wound to the forehead in his 11th-floor apartment. Emergency responders performed CPR before urgently transporting him to a nearby hospital.
Upon searching the room, investigators discovered nitrous oxide canisters (commonly known as “laughing gas”), balloons used for inhaling the gas, and a .38 caliber revolver with one spent casing, which were collected as evidence.
A friend of the injured man, identified as 29-year-old Mr. Alichanovas from Lithuania who shared the apartment, told police that prior to the incident, Michael had consumed cannabis and inhaled laughing gas.
According to the witness, Michael became increasingly reckless and invited his friend to play Russian roulette. When Mr. Alichanovas refused out of fear and went to bed, he heard his friend make a clicking sound, followed shortly by a gunshot. Upon investigation, he found Michael lying in a pool of blood.
The Lithuanian national immediately sought help, calling a friend to contact authorities while he ran downstairs to alert the condominium’s security personnel.
Police have conducted a thorough examination of the scene and coordinated with the Chonburi Region 2 Forensic Police to collect evidence from both the room and Michael’s roommate, including gunpowder residue tests. The investigation continues regarding the firearm’s ownership and the circumstances surrounding this incident.
Curated by W Hotels Global Music Director LP Giobbi, the immersive getaway seamlessly fuses music, culture, and adventure
APRIL 2025 (BETHESDA, MD) – W Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, announces W PRESENTS Retreat, the next chapter of its celebrated W PRESENTS global live music series showcasing a mix of emerging and establish artists. Curated, hosted, and headlined by W Hotels Global Music Director and renowned DJ, LP Giobbi, this exclusive escape invites guests to W Koh Samui, a 30 square mile tropical haven in Thailand set on a private stretch of white sand between Maenam and Bo Phut beaches. Known for its vibrant spirit, bold design, and picturesque ocean views, W Koh Samui blends island tranquility with the brand’s signature energy, offering private pool villas, world-class B&F, and immersive cultural experiences. Guests will embark on an unforgettable journey led by some of the world’s most celebrated musical talents against the breathtaking backdrop of Koh Samui.
This one-of-a-kind retreat offers more than just musical performances – it’s a deep dive into local culture and story-worthy experiences that only W Koh Samui can offer. Guests will embark on a highly curated itinerary designed to surprise and delight, from exploring an elephant sanctuary and challenging themselves in a Thai boxing session to cruising the surrounding islands by boat, visiting the vibrant Fisherman’s Village night market, and of course, enjoying intimate, exclusive music performances along the way by Bonobo (DJ set), LP Giobbi, Sofia Kourtesis (DJ set), Beatrice, Emjie, JOPLYN, Mascolo, as well as local artists including Kate Sara, Dan Buri, and W Koh Samui Music Curator, Armando Mendes.
“Music has always been part of W Hotels’ DNA, and W PRESENTS has become a powerful global platform for a culturally relevant sonic expression,” says George Fleck, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, W Hotels. “With our first ever W PRESENTS Retreat we are deepening that connection to be an even more immersive experience in the world’s most exotic destinations, bringing guests closer to the artists they love and the places they love to discover. Launching at our iconic W Koh Samui makes it even more special given the island’s vibrant music scene, natural beauty and stunning local culture.”
At its core, W PRESENTS is a vibrant platform dedicated to celebrating the universal connectivity of music. This next chapter of the series invites guests to dive deeper into music and culture, offering an experience that you just had to be there for.
“W PRESENTS Retreat is an opportunity to deepen connections within the music community through shared appreciation for culture and connection,” shares LP Giobbi, Global Music Director, W Hotels. “This retreat showcases global musical talent through the unique lens of W Hotels against Thailand’s striking backdrop.”
The first-ever W PRESENTS Retreat will take place across four nights from May 1-5, 2025. Guests are now invited to reserve their spot for this rare escape and dive deep into artistry, culture, and connection.
The W PRESENTS Retreat is available for booking : https://www.marriott.com/offers/w-presents-retreat-off-156930/usmwh-w-koh-samui?propertycode=usmwh
Khao Chae originates from Mon culture and was initially used as an offering to the gods during the Songkran Festival.
BANGKOK — When temperatures soar in April, the Songkran Festival returns once again, bringing with it the refreshing embrace of water and the enchanting charm of Thai culture that attracts people from all over the world. One of the must-try summer dishes is “Khao Chae,” a cooling delicacy that is more than just food it is a reflection of Thai wisdom and culture, passed down through generations.
Khao Chae originates from Mon culture and was initially used as an offering to the gods during the Songkran Festival. Over time, this tradition was adopted by Thai society and gained popularity in the royal court before spreading to the general public.
The highlight of Khao Chae lies in its fragrant jasmine rice soaked in chilled jasmine-scented water, served with meticulously prepared side dishes that showcase the sophistication of Thai royal cuisine.
Silom: The Iconic Songkran Hub
Silom is one of the most popular destinations for tourists during Songkran. This bustling street is filled with people eager to join in the water festivities, immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere, and experience the charm of Thai culture. It serves as a prime example of soft power that attracts visitors from around the world. Beyond the water celebrations, savoring authentic Thai cuisine is another experience not to be missed, and Khao Chae is the perfect dish for this season.
The uniqueness of Khao Chae Baan Dusit Thani lies in the delicate craftsmanship of its side dishes, which are carefully selected and prepared using exclusive recipes.
Tourists from all corners of the globe flock to this street to enjoy the fun of splashing water amidst the scorching heat. Silom is also home to some of Bangkok’s most iconic hotels, including the recently reopened Dusit Thani Hotel.
This legendary hotel not only showcases “Thainess” through its architecture and interior design but also through “Baan Dusit,” a food community that brings together the signature restaurants of Dusit Thani Hotel in one place. These include Benjarong (Thai cuisine), Thien Duong (Vietnamese cuisine), Nomada (South American cuisine), and Dusit Gourmet.
Conveniently located just a few steps from Silom BTS station and MRT Silom station, this iconic Songkran hotspot makes “Baan Dusit” an ideal destination for international visitors looking to enjoy the festivities while indulging in the authentic “Thainess” of Thai cuisine at Benjarong. Particularly, the exclusive “Khao Chae Baan Dusit” is available only during this season.
Khao Chae Baan Dusit Thani: A Royal Legacy in the Heart of Silom
At Benjarong, the fine-dining restaurant of Dusit Thani Bangkok, Khao Chae is not just a refreshing dish it is a culinary masterpiece that perfectly embodies the flavors and elegance of Thai royal cuisine. Every step in its preparation is meticulously crafted, starting with organic jasmine rice from Surin, which is carefully cooked to achieve a soft and fragrant texture before being immersed in chilled jasmine-infused water. This is accompanied by exquisite side dishes, each telling a story of authentic Thai culinary heritage.
In 2025 Khao Chae emerges as Thailand’s edible ambassador.
The uniqueness of Khao Chae Baan Dusit Thani lies in the delicate craftsmanship of its side dishes, which are carefully selected and prepared using exclusive recipes. These include Fried Shrimp Paste Balls (Luk Kapi Tod) Made from grilled snakehead fish mixed with lemongrass, fingerroot, shrimp paste, and coconut cream, then shaped into small balls and deep-fried to golden perfection.
Stuffed Shallots (Hom Daeng Yad Sai) Shallots hollowed out and filled with a special shrimp paste mixture. Stuffed Chili Peppers (Prik Yuak Sod Sai) Green chili peppers stuffed with minced pork and shrimp, served with a delicate egg net. Shredded Sweet Pork and Beef (Moo Foy & Neua Foy) Pork and beef stewed to a soft, sweet consistency.
Sweet Stir-Fried Radish (Chai Po Phad Wan) and Sweet Fried Fish (Pla Phad Wan) Offering a perfectly balanced taste. Fresh Organic Vegetables Sourced from organic farms to add a refreshing touch to the meal.
From Royal Legacy to Silom’s Soft Power
At Baan Dusit Thani, Khao Chae transcends tradition—it becomes a bridge between Thailand’s royal heritage and the vibrant energy of modern Silom, where culture meets cosmopolitan charm. Designed for today’s global traveler, this iconic dish is reimagined in three curated experiences, blending authenticity with contemporary convenience:
Dine-in Set (1,165 THB) – Immerse yourself in the elegance of Benjarong Restaurant, where every bite of chilled jasmine rice and artisanal side dishes reflects Thailand’s UNESCO-worthy culinary artistry.
Take-home Set (1,400 THB) – Carry a taste of Thai heritage beyond borders, perfect for private indulgence or sharing with friends.
Collector’s Tiffin Set (3,500 THB, 15 sets/day) – A luxury homage to royal tiffin carriers, offering an Instagram-worthy piece of Thai history for discerning connoisseurs.
In Silom Bangkok’s melting pot of global cultures savoring Khao Chae at Baan Dusit Thani isn’t just a meal; it’s soft power on a plate. As visitors from Tokyo to New York join Songkran’s water festivities outside, they discover here the true essence of Thainess: a dish that has charmed kings and now conquers the world through flavor, not force.
Why This Matters Now
In 2025 Khao Chae emerges as Thailand’s edible ambassador
Cultural Diplomacy – Each ingredient tells a story of Mon roots, royal refinement, and modern reinvention.
Sustainable Luxury – Organic jasmine rice and hyper-local accompaniments align with global eco-conscious dining trends.
Insta-Ready Heritage – The tiffin set’s lacquered craftsmanship and porcelain plating make Thai culture irresistibly shareable.
For those who demand more than water fights in Silom, Baan Dusit Thani offers the ultimate soft power experience: where every spoonful of Khao Chae cools the body, warms the soul, and proves why Thai culture remains the world’s most delicious allure.
The Latin American suspects are caught in Nong Khai province in northeastern Thailand just before they could escape across the border into Laos on April 8, 2025.
PATHUM THANI — Police have apprehended four Latin American nationals—three Colombians and one Peruvian—who were involved in a series of home burglaries throughout Pathum Thani province. The suspects were caught in Nong Khai province in northeastern Thailand just before they could escape across the border into Laos.
Police Lieutenant General Surapol Prembut, Commander of Provincial Police Region 1, announced the arrests during a press conference at the Pathum Thani Police Station on Monday evening.
The case began when Ms. Duangdao, a resident of Bang Khuwat sub-district in Pathum Thani, reported on April 6 around 8:00 p.m. that thieves had broken into her home and stolen a safe containing valuable items including gold necklaces, diamond rings, watches, and amulets worth approximately 5 million baht ($143,225).
CCTV footage shows two of the four Colombian men breaking into a luxury home in Pathum Thani province on April 6, 2025.
Investigation of CCTV footage revealed that the burglars were four foreign men. Detectives traced the vehicle used in the crime and discovered that after the theft, the suspects dumped the victim’s safe in the Pravet Burirom Canal in Lat Krabang and abandoned their rental car on Kamphaeng Phet 7 Road in the Suan Luang district.
Police found that the group had rented a house in the Lat Krabang area of Bangkok and had been using rental cars to scout expensive housing developments with minimal security. On the day of the robbery at Ms. Duangdao’s home, the burglars observed her leaving in her car, then rang the doorbell to confirm no one was inside before scaling the fence, forcing entry, and stealing the valuables.
Through coordination with immigration officials and the Pathum Thani Provincial Police investigation team, authorities intercepted the four suspects: 67-year-old Mr. Raul Quitian and 46-year-old Mr. Nelson Rojas, both Colombians who entered the homes; 65-year-old Mr. Luis Romero, also Colombian, who served as lookout; and 29-year-old Mr. Sandro Pomalia, a Peruvian national who rented and drove the vehicles used in the crimes.
Many of the stolen items are displayed during the arrests of the Latin American gang on April 8, 2025.
Investigators learned that Mr. Sandro entered Thailand first, later meeting the three Colombian suspects who had entered Thailand through Laos. The group reportedly met and planned their operations on Khao San Road before beginning their robbery spree.
Police obtained arrest warrants from the Pathum Thani Provincial Court and apprehended all four suspects in Nong Khai province as they were attempting to flee to Laos. Many of the stolen items were recovered during the arrests. The suspects have initially been charged with conspiracy to commit theft.
Authorities believe the Latin American suspects are part of a larger foreign criminal network and have requested interpreters to conduct separate, detailed interrogations of each suspect to identify additional accomplices.
Paetongtarn Shinawatra holds a press conference with the leaders of the coalition parties after a cabinet meeting at the Government House on April 8, 2025.
BANGKOK — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has decided to postpone a bill on entertainment complexes, a key initiative of the ruling Pheu Thai Party to pave the way for a new economic landscape in Thailand. The bill, which proposes the legalization of casinos as part of the complex, has been met with fierce opposition both inside and outside parliament.
On April 8, Paetongtarn held a press conference with the leaders of the coalition parties after a cabinet meeting. She announced that consideration of the bill would be delayed and explained that the cabinet had agreed to prioritize more pressing issues.
“We will not withdraw the bill. During this time, we will continue to listen to feedback from the public. I want to make it clear that the governing coalition believes that we need to prioritize issues accordingly. We have always had a clear order of priority.”
Entertainment Complex Bill Can Wait
She explained that urgent issues, such as the aftermath of the recent earthquake and the necessary relief efforts, must come first. The Ministry of Labor has pledged support to both Thai and foreign victims. The government is also working to lift certain regulations to help those affected more effectively.
Another pressing issue is the new US tax measures, which require extensive discussion and a swift response from the government. These matters, she said, require immediate attention. Other issues, including the entertainment complex bill, can wait. The coalition has already discussed how we can move forward, including crisis and pre-crisis issues, and there is no disagreement, everything has been discussed step by step.
E-Complex Is Not All About Casinos
When asked if the bill will be reintroduced in the next parliamentary session, the Prime Minister confirmed: “Yes. The relevant ministers will clarify it again. From now on, we will seek input and explain the purpose clearly, especially as the term ‘entertainment complex’ has been misunderstood as being only about casinos. That was never our intention. We envisioned a place for everyone, including families and children. It will include many things.”
She added: “Casinos will not suddenly become legal everywhere in Thailand. The entertainment complex may include a casino that is properly licensed, but that doesn’t mean all casinos across the country will become legal. I admit that more time is needed to sort out the details, as unregulated and illegal gambling has already caused considerable damage in Thailand.”
Anti-casino protesters gather in front of Sisaket Railway Station in Mueang District, Sisaket Province, on April 8, 2025.
Political Narratives Twist the Story
The Prime Minister emphasized that the government will take responsibility for thoroughly explaining and communicating what the law actually entails. “If the plan was to simply open casinos, our coalition would not have agreed to it in the first place. This was never presented as core policy. Instead, it’s about significant economic benefits, money flowing into the country, job creation and new tourism destinations. We’re talking about hundreds or even thousands of new jobs.”
“When political narratives twist the story, the misunderstanding spreads. It ends up looking like the government is just focusing on opening gambling venues, which is not true at all.”
When asked whether the delay was a response to criticism and calls for a public referendum, Paetongtarn said: “We are listening to all sides, but that is not the reason. The government has not withdrawn the bill, but only the emergency motion to deal with more pressing issues first.”
Thaksin Denied threatening Coalition Partners
When asked about rumors that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra had threatened to expel coalition parties that did not support the bill, she denied the allegation and said, “All coalition leaders are here. You are welcome to ask them for clarification.”
Thaksin himself denied he has threatened coalition partners that failing to support the government’s push to pass the Entertainment Complex Bill. He also denied that the government has already chosen firms that would be granted the license to operate the casinos.
“As head of government, I want everyone in the coalition to feel comfortable and fully support me,” Paetongtarn emphasized. “That is my leadership style. I don’t know how it was handled in previous governments, but under my leadership I want the coalition to agree wholeheartedly, not just by procedure. While it is common for coalition parties to vote together, I want this to be done with genuine support and unity, 100% together.”
