Khao Kheow Open Zoo offers fans chance to become Moo Deng’s keeper for a day

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17 June 2026, 14:38

710739743_1297011692609334_2256488865401573204_n — Moo Deng

CHON BURI — Fans of Moo Deng, the viral pygmy hippopotamus at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, can now experience life as her keeper through a new hands-on programme that allows participants to clean her enclosure, prepare food and learn about her daily care.

The announcement was made by the Facebook page “Kha Moo and the Gang”, which is run by Moo Deng’s caretakers at Khao Kheow Open Zoo.

Under the “Zoo Keeper Insight” activity, visitors will take part in tasks normally performed by zoo staff, including washing the pool, cleaning the enclosure and preparing Moo Deng’s favourite foods.

Organisers said Moo Deng will remain in a separate section of the enclosure while participants carry out the cleaning activities. After the work is completed, visitors will have an opportunity to take a selfie with the popular pygmy hippopotamus.

The programme also includes educational sessions on Moo Deng’s behaviour and daily life, offering participants a behind-the-scenes look at animal care at the zoo. Each participant will receive a souvenir.

The activity is open to groups of up to four people, with a minimum age requirement of 12 years. The participation fee is 6,000 baht per group.

Bookings are now open for visits from now until September 2026 at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri province.

For more information, visitors can contact the zoo at 038-318444 or visit the “Khao Kheow Open Zoo Promotions” Facebook page.

Two men called to help stop dispute end up opening fire

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Khaosod English

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17 June 2026, 13:43

Two men called to help stop dispute end up opening fire

CHANTHABURI — 17 June 2026, in a near-repeat of the border patrol officer shooting involving motorcycle taxi riders, a man and his companion responded to a female friend’s plea to help stop a dispute, but one of the two men allegedly opened fire after they were swarmed, their motorcycle was vandalized, and he was provoked.

Pol. Lt. Ploypan Arunrat, the duty officer at Tha Mai Police Station, received a report of a shooting with injuries at around 21:15 on Tuesday at a house in Takad Ngao subdistrict, Tha Mai district. She rushed to the scene alongside rescue volunteers from the Sawang Katanyu Chanthaburi Rescue Foundation.

At the scene, authorities found two men wounded in the shooting: a 64-year-old man, Samnao (surname withheld), who suffered a gunshot wound to his right leg, and a 37-year-old man, Suwan (surname withheld), who was shot in his left arm. Both were immediately taken to Tha Mai Hospital for treatment by rescue workers.

An inspection discovered bloodstains splattered across the floor of the house and 10 spent .22-calibre shell casings scattered on the road in front of the residence. Officers documented the scene by taking photographs and marking the locations where the evidence was discovered to compile the case file.

Reporters stated that the incident began when Somjit, identified as Samnao’s wife, called 25-year-old Phairat (surname withheld), asking him to help after a dispute with her husband. Phairat arrived at the house with a 20-year-old friend, Kraisorn, intending to act as mediators, as requested. However, they allegedly found Somjit with injuries from an assault, leading to a heated verbal argument.

The situation escalated when Samnao and Suwan allegedly used knives to damage Phairat’s motorcycle. Feeling threatened and surrounded, Phairat lost his temper, allegedly drew a .22-calibre King Cobra USA pistol and fired one warning shot into the air. However, Samnao then allegedly challenged him to shoot, prompting the suspect to fire twice at the victims.

The chase continued onto the road in front of the house, where Phairat allegedly fired additional shots to prevent the victims from pursuing him before tossing the gun away and fleeing.

Meanwhile, the case has drawn comparisons to a high-profile viral social media incident involving a member of the Border Patrol Police who shot a group of motorcycle taxi riders, sparking debate over self-defence when confronted by a group. In this current instance, officers under the command of Pol. Col. Phollaphat Thammasanong, Superintendent of Tha Mai Police Station, later successfully arrested Phairat and Kraisorn and also seized the firearm and ammunition hidden in roadside bushes.

The inquiry officer has charged the suspects with attempted murder, unauthorized possession of a firearm and ammunition, carrying a firearm in a city, village, or public pathway openly or without reasonable cause, and discharging a firearm using explosives without justifiable reason.

Nevertheless, investigators must gather witness evidence and closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage to determine whether the circumstances constituted excessive self-defence or attempted murder, in accordance with subsequent legal procedures.

Chinese Ponzi scheme suspect arrested in Chiang Mai

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Khaosod English

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17 June 2026, 12:57

Chinese Ponzi scheme suspect arrested in Chiang Mai

CHIANG MAI — Thai police have arrested a 50-year-old Chinese national wanted in China for allegedly operating a fraudulent investment platform that authorities say functioned as a Ponzi scheme.

The suspect, identified only as Hou, was detained at a housing estate in Nong Pa Khrang subdistrict, Mueang district, Chiang Mai, on 17 June after Thai immigration authorities revoked his permission to stay in the kingdom.

According to the Crime Suppression Division, Hou is wanted by the Taihu County Public Security Bureau in Anhui Province, China. Investigators allege he and associates established a company that operated a fake online investment platform to defraud investors.

The scheme allegedly promised investment returns while encouraging members to recruit new participants and build downline networks in exchange for commissions, a structure resembling a Ponzi scheme.

Chinese authorities said the organization used a three-tier management structure to expand its network, resulting in substantial financial losses for numerous victims.

After Chinese authorities launched an investigation and issued an arrest warrant, Hou allegedly fled abroad and later entered Thailand. Thai and Chinese authorities coordinated efforts to track him down before his arrest in Chiang Mai.

He has been transferred to Chiang Mai Immigration for detention and legal proceedings pending deportation to China, where he will face prosecution.

Family discovers 1.84 million baht hidden after father’s death

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Khaosod English

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17 June 2026, 10:44

Family discovers 1.84 million baht hidden after father’s death

UDON THANI — 17 June 2026, The family of a Thai farmer were stunned to discover 1.84 million baht in cash hidden inside a modified metal storage box used for tools after his death, revealing years of careful saving that even his wife did not know about.

The discovery came after the death of In Saendong, 78, from Nong Tum village in Udon Thani province. Relatives found the cash while searching through a metal storage container he had used to keep tools and personal belongings.

Photos and videos of the discovery were later shared online, drawing widespread attention and prompting many social media users to praise the deceased for his thrift and financial discipline.

Daeng, 74, In’s wife of nearly 60 years, said she had no idea her husband had accumulated such a large amount of money.

She said In had always lived modestly and frequently told family members he had little money. Over the years, he had quietly saved money from inherited assets and the sale of cattle and buffalo.

“I never imagined he had saved this much,” she said.

In spent most of his life farming and raising cattle and buffalo. Family members described him as hardworking, frugal and reluctant to discuss money.

He fell ill about 20 days before his death after collapsing while carrying out community duties in the village. He received treatment in hospital before returning home, where he died on 13 June.

Following his death, Daeng and their two sons decided to inspect the storage box because she vaguely remembered her husband keeping money there.

When they opened it, they found stacks of banknotes totalling 1.84 million baht, along with a one-baht-weight gold necklace.

Daeng said she was overwhelmed by the discovery and described her late husband as “a model father”.

“He worked with his own hands all his life, farming and raising animals,” she said. “I never thought he had managed to save this much.”

Navin, 54, the couple’s eldest son, said his father had always taught his children to spend carefully and save whenever possible.

“He always told us to work hard, save what we could and not spend beyond our means,” he said. “We are proud of what he did for the family.”

Panni Chaiphim, 70, a fellow village health volunteer who worked alongside In for many years, described him as a respected member of the community known for his modest lifestyle and careful saving habits.

Family members said the money has since been deposited in a bank and will form part of the inheritance for the couple’s three children, who intend to use it to help care for their mother in the future.

Thai BL animation ‘Greatest Memory’ revival signals industry’s growing ambition

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Khaosod English

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17 June 2026, 10:16

Thai BL animation ‘Greatest Memory’ revival signals industry’s growing ambition

BANGKOK — A Thai creator who works under the pseudonym “Beerkuya” has revived the boys’ love (BL) animation Greatest Memory, releasing its first episode on Tuesday and drawing praise from fans who have waited more than a decade for its return.

The six- to seven-episode animated series follows Boyd, an ordinary office worker whose life changes after he meets Ohm, a man who comes to his aid on Bangkok’s Skytrain. Their encounter blossoms into a sweet romance set against familiar Thai backdrops, including local food, scenery and everyday locations that have delighted viewers.

Beerkuya, who said the project is a personal endeavour produced entirely alone, described the remake as being inspired by real-life events. The story is about someone who made Boyd’s heart swell and the whole world seem to stop turning.

The new version has been completely redrawn while retaining the original storyline from 11 years ago. It also introduces new characters and additional plot elements, while some characters from the earlier version have been removed. The remake promises modernised settings, replacing outdated references such as MSN with the messaging app LINE, and will include some romantic and mildly risqué scenes.

The remake had been in development for about five to six years since it was first announced. The animator acknowledged having considered abandoning the project because of the amount of time, energy and money involved in producing it.

For the remake, Beerkuya commissioned original music, hired voice actors and took part in promotional events, all while questioning whether the project would attract an audience.

Despite those doubts, the animator said completing Greatest Memory remained a long-held dream and a way to finally bring closure to a story that had remained unfinished for years. Beerkuya ultimately decided that the project would be worthwhile even if it were watched by only one person.

He also acknowledged the lengthy production process, particularly the time required to draw detailed backgrounds.

“If every scene had to be perfectly beautiful and packed with details, everyone might have to wait another 10 years,” he joked.

Fans have responded enthusiastically to the revival. One supporter said the animation had been a significant part of growing up.

“I feel like I grew up with it. I first watched it when I was only 17 and it inspired me to express myself. It may not be the best work for everyone, but for me it is special and feels like proof of my own growth,” the fan wrote in a reply.

He also thanked fans for continuing to support the project despite its long absence, saying that every comment and like, however few, had provided the encouragement needed to keep working until the animation was completed.

The project’s long gestation and largely one-person production effort also underscore the challenges facing independent animators in Thailand, where creators often rely on personal resources to develop original works.

Updates on Greatest Memory are shared through the project’s official Facebook page, Greatest Memory Official, as well as Beerkuya’s YouTube channel and the project’s X account, @GreatestMemory_.

Two soldiers killed after motorcycle hits army truck near Ta Muean Tod temple

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Khaosod English

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16 June 2026, 18:23

SURIN — 16 June 2026, Two Thai soldiers died on Tuesday after a motorcycle lost control on a curve and struck a military truck near Ta Mueang Tod temple ruins in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province, according to the Suranari Task Force.

The accident occurred at around 10:50 on a bend close to the ancient temple, which sits near the Thai-Cambodian border.

The first soldier, Pte. Sittichai Wiangthum, a radio telephone operator stationed at a local military base, lost consciousness at the scene. He was rushed to Phanom Dong Rak Chalermphrakiat 80 Phansa Hospital, where doctors performed CPR, but he did not respond and was pronounced dead at 12:41.

The second soldier, Pte. Thattep Sidamat, a machine gunner at Sam Yaek base, was conscious when taken to hospital with abrasions and a swollen head. He was placed under observation in the emergency room, but his pulse weakened at around 13:30. Doctors performed CPR but were unable to save him. He died at 14:05.

Their unit has notified both families and arranged transport to the hospital and the accident site.

Military authorities are processing funeral arrangements and ensuring the families of both soldiers receive full entitlements, including welfare benefits and life insurance payouts, in accordance with official regulations.

Review: The Evil Lawyer – When justice isn’t black and white, and the courtroom isn’t reserved for good people

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Khaosod English

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16 June 2026, 16:48

Review: The Evil Lawyer – When justice isn’t black and white, and the courtroom isn’t reserved for good people

The Evil Lawyer, a new Thai legal drama series released on 11 June, is directed by Thai filmmaker Nottapon Boonprakob, known for screenwriting on SuckSeed and May Who?, co-directing and writing on One for the Road, and directing the Netflix series Mad Unicorn.

This time, he turns his attention to Thailand’s legal world through the story of Mek, an idealistic young lawyer who suddenly finds himself accused of murdering the son of a police officer. To clear his name, he is forced to team up with Jittri, a notoriously cunning attorney known for exploiting loopholes in the law. Together, they navigate a justice system where the answers are rarely black and white.

What stands out most is the series’ willingness to explore the grey areas of Thailand’s justice system. Through the eyes of legal professionals, it raises uncomfortable questions about morality, power, and justice, three forces that do not always move in the same direction.

Another standout aspect is the attention to detail in depicting courtroom proceedings and cross-examinations. It is clear that the creators have done extensive research, resulting in scenes that feel remarkably authentic without unnecessary dramatisation.

More importantly, the series reminds viewers that courtrooms are not bright, orderly or reassuring spaces, as they are sometimes portrayed in television dramas. Instead, they are spaces filled with tension, pressure, and fierce competition, where everyone fights for their own interests.

The performances are equally impressive. Not only do the lead actors deliver compelling performances, but supporting actors and even minor characters add to the sense of realism. Many of them genuinely resemble people one might encounter in Thailand’s legal profession.

The casting choices also deserve praise for going beyond the conventional standards of attractiveness often seen in Thai series. The character Seya, for example, presents a migrant worker in a way that feels natural and believable.

Visually, the series employs muted colours and subdued lighting, creating an atmosphere of discomfort and moral ambiguity that neatly complements its themes.

One of the series’ most striking achievements is its incorporation of cases reminiscent of real-life incidents that have shaken Thai society. These include the mysterious death of a young woman on a boat surrounded by influential figures, recalling the highly publicised case of actress Tangmo Nida, as well as references to abandoned infant remains in hospitals and devastating industrial fires. Such elements make the series feel as though it is addressing truths that reality itself often hesitates to confront directly.

The series is not without flaws. At times, the pacing moves too quickly, leaving viewers wondering whether they have missed something important. The ending also leaves several questions unresolved, walking a fine line between setting up a second season and intentionally allowing audiences to draw their own conclusions.

Rather than being entertaining in the conventional sense, The Evil Lawyer is emotionally unsettling. It leaves viewers feeling uncomfortable, disturbed, and even disgusted by certain aspects of reality. Episode five, in particular, featuring the cross-examination of a doctor accused of sexually assaulting a patient, is among the most distressing scenes in the series.

Credit must be given to actress Ying Rhatha Phongam, who portrays Jittri and reportedly contributed to the design of this sequence by avoiding rehearsals with the actress playing the victim beforehand. The result is a painfully raw and realistic scene, capturing the desperation of someone cornered into revealing the truth before the court.

The series also questions the failures of Thailand’s justice system by satirising sensationalist news talk shows that invite the public to judge social issues. It reflects a painful reality: many people no longer place enough trust in formal legal mechanisms and instead seek justice through public opinion, allowing society itself to become judge and jury.

A lawyer’s duty is to fight for the best interests of their client within the framework of the law, not to determine who deserves legal representation. In that regard, the series may help dispel some of the misconceptions surrounding the legal profession.

For viewers who enjoy heavy dramas, thrillers, and stories that challenge social norms, The Evil Lawyer is not to be missed. However, audiences should be prepared for numerous sensitive themes, including sexual violence, imbalances of power, and cases that society often chooses to ignore.

Another major strength is the space the series gives to female lawyers. While women make up a significant part of the legal profession in reality, patriarchal attitudes often cause them to be overlooked. This series demonstrates that certain issues become even more powerful when told through women’s perspectives and voices.

Its biggest drawback may also be one of its strengths: the series is packed with symbolism and subtext. Viewers who dislike interpretation and analysis may find it demanding and occasionally overwhelming. But for those who enjoy unpacking hidden meanings, The Evil Lawyer is filled with Easter eggs and narrative layers that make it worth revisiting to catch details that may have gone unnoticed the first time around.

However, it is also difficult not to feel a sense of missed opportunity. While Thailand’s media and film industry have begun pushing boundaries by producing series willing to confront moral grey areas and structural problems that are plainly visible in Thai society, these stories still rarely go all the way. Certain issues could have been explored more deeply and interrogated more forcefully, yet they seem to stop short for reasons that remain unclear.

That is not to say that The Evil Lawyer lacks impact. On the contrary, it is powerful enough to leave viewers uncomfortable, angry, and questioning the nature of justice in Thai society. At the same time, it raises another question: had this series not been released on a streaming platform, would it have retained the same level of quality and boldness in its storytelling? Or would much of its sharper commentary have been diluted, leaving behind little more than another conventional legal drama?

More than a legal thriller, The Evil Lawyer is an uncomfortable reflection of a society that is still struggling to define what justice truly means. By the end, it leaves behind a disturbing question: when the system fails, who gets to decide what justice looks like?

Department of Intellectual Property showcases Thai innovations in Shanghai

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Mc Marketing

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16 June 2026, 16:44

The Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) is showcasing 50 innovative technologies and products from Thai universities and private organizations at The 12th China (Shanghai) International Technology Fair (CSITF) 2026, held from 11–13 June 2026 in Shanghai, China.

The innovations cover food and agriculture, healthcare and medical technology, biotechnology, and cosmeceuticals, reflecting Thailand’s growing innovation capabilities and strong commercial potential.

Mrs. Auramon Sapthaweethum, Director-General of the DIP, said the Department is committed to strengthening Thailand’s economy through innovation and intellectual property by supporting the commercialization of research and IP assets and enhancing national competitiveness.

At the event, the DIP is organizing Pitching Sessions and Business Matching activities with more than 30 Chinese investors and companies. The Department expects to secure at least 20 business matching opportunities and generate business negotiations worth over THB 10 million.

The DIP is also promoting IP MART, Thailand’s online intellectual property marketplace, which connects entrepreneurs, investors, and technology owners to facilitate technology transfer and commercialization. In addition, the Department continues to advance its IP Finance initiative, encouraging the use of intellectual property as a financial asset to improve entrepreneurs’ access to funding.

Participation in CSITF 2026 highlights Thailand’s innovation potential on the global stage and strengthens opportunities for trade, investment, and technology cooperation between Thailand and China.

DE strengthens Northeast network against fake news and scams

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Mc Marketing

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16 June 2026, 16:39

Deputy DE Minister Strengthens Anti-Fake News Network in Northeast, Boosts Public Awareness Against Online Scams

Ms. Nann Boontida Somchai, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DE), presided over the opening ceremony of the 2nd Workshop on Media Literacy and Fake News Response under the Anti Fake News Center (AFNC) Project in Ubon Ratchathani Province.

Ms. Nann Boontida stated that Mr. Chaichanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, has assigned the Ministry to prioritize the prevention and mitigation of security and social threats by enhancing public awareness of technology-related crimes, fake news, and disinformation. The initiative aims to strengthen networks among government agencies, private-sector organizations, and the public to help expand accurate information sharing and encourage citizens to verify information before forwarding or publishing it on online platforms. The workshop was organized to establish and strengthen anti-fake news networks throughout the Northeastern region.

The Anti Fake News Center has served as an important platform through which the public can follow verified information, report suspicious content, and fact-check misleading information quickly and reliably. It also plays a key role in disseminating knowledge and combating misinformation to build societal resilience against fake news. To date, AFNC has established cooperation agreements with more than 400 government agencies, private organizations, and civil society partners nationwide.

Between January 1 and May 31, 2026, AFNC screened a total of 24.4 million messages. Of those reviewed, 1,027 cases were verified as factual information, while 954 cases were identified as fake news or misleading content.

Meanwhile, fake news continues to be exploited by scammers as a tool for online fraud, resulting in financial losses and personal data exposure. According to data from the Anti Online Scam Operation Center (AOC 1441) covering the period from November 1, 2023, to May 31, 2026, the Northeastern region’s 20 provinces recorded 126,591 scam cases, causing total damages exceeding 7.7 billion baht.

In Ubon Ratchathani Province alone, authorities recorded 8,833 scam cases with damages exceeding 478 million baht, ranking fourth in the Northeastern region after Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, and Udon Thani. The three most common scam categories were:

Online purchase and service fraud: 4,166 cases, causing losses of 40 million baht;
Fraudulent job offers requiring money transfers for extra-income opportunities: 1,190 cases, causing losses of 117 million baht; and
Prize-winning scams requiring money transfers: 1,037 cases, causing losses of 79 million baht.

The Northeastern region also shares extensive border areas with neighboring countries. Therefore, authorities must remain vigilant against fake news related to border security and public safety. Statistics show that between January and May 2026, more than 3.9 million messages concerning border security issues were monitored. After verification, 220 cases were classified as fake or misleading news, while 224 cases were confirmed as factual information.

“The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society places great importance on building networks among the government, private sector, and civil society to jointly combat the spread of fake news. At the same time, we are committed to raising public awareness and strengthening digital literacy so that citizens can better recognize online threats and reduce the impact and damage caused by cybercrime,” the Deputy Minister said.

DE probes alleged exposure of 36 million Thai personal records

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Mc Marketing

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16 June 2026, 16:36

Deputy DE Minister Orders PDPC and NCSA to Investigate Alleged Leak of Thai Citizens’ Data, Warns Personal Data Trading Carries Up to 5 Years’ Imprisonment

Ms. Nann Boontida Somchai, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DE), revealed that following reports claiming that more than 36 million records of Thai citizens’ personal data have been offered for sale, she has instructed the Office of the Personal Data Protection Committee (PDPC) to integrate its efforts with the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) to investigate and verify the facts surrounding the case.

According to the NCSA’s preliminary investigation, the agency has been monitoring and examining the sources where the alleged data is being advertised for sale. The investigation involves analytical procedures to verify the authenticity of the information, including comparisons with data leaks that have previously surfaced. Based on the sample data provided by the seller, authorities have identified a source containing an announcement with content similar to the information currently being circulated. Further testing is underway to extract sample data for in-depth analysis to determine whether the dataset consists of newly leaked information or data compiled from previous data breach incidents.

However, there is currently no evidence confirming that the data is genuine or linking it to any specific organization. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society will continue to closely monitor and investigate the matter to maintain public confidence. If the investigation confirms that a personal data breach has occurred, the Ministry stands ready to take legal action and coordinate with relevant agencies to fully protect citizens’ personal information.

“The Ministry urges the public to closely follow information released by government agencies and to exercise greater caution when disclosing personal information, answering calls from unknown individuals, clicking links, or providing sensitive information through online channels. At the same time, we would like to remind the public that involvement in the buying or selling of personal data is a criminal offense carrying a maximum penalty of a fine of 500,000 baht, imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both. We also call on government agencies that hold large volumes of citizens’ information to strictly implement the highest standards of data security to prevent personal data leaks. Should any negligence or participation in such offenses be discovered, legal action will be taken to the fullest extent of the law,” the Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society said.

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