Thailand warns 40 provinces of heavy rain and storms

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3 June 2026, 09:32

Thailand warns 40 provinces of heavy rain and storms

BANGKOK — 3 June 2026, Thailand’s Meteorological Department has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across 40 provinces, with parts of the south, east, and the Bangkok metropolitan area expected to experience widespread thunderstorms.

In its 24-hour forecast, the department said the eastern region and southern Thailand would face the heaviest conditions, while parts of the northern and central regions, including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, could also see isolated heavy downpours.

Authorities urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert for possible flash floods and runoff, particularly in low-lying locations and near waterways.

Bangkok and neighbouring provinces are forecast to experience thunderstorms across 60% of the area, with some districts likely to receive heavy rain. Temperatures are expected to range from 26-28 degrees Celsius overnight to 34-36 degrees Celsius during the day.

In northern Thailand, thunderstorms are expected in about 40% of the region, with heavy rain forecast in Mae Hong Son, Tak and Kamphaeng Phet provinces.

The northeast is also expected to see thunderstorms across 40% of the region, affecting provinces including Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buri Ram and Ubon Ratchathani.

Central Thailand is forecast to experience thunderstorms across 40% of the region, with heavy rain possible in Uthai Thani, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Suphan Buri and Nakhon Pathom.

The eastern region is expected to be among the hardest hit, with thunderstorms forecast across 60% of the area and heavy to very heavy rainfall likely in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat.

Sea conditions in the east are expected to be rough, with waves reaching 2-3 metres and exceeding 3 metres in thunderstorm areas.

On the Gulf coast, thunderstorms are forecast across 60% of southern eastern provinces, with heavy rain expected in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung and Songkhla.

The Andaman coast is forecast to experience the most severe weather, with thunderstorms covering 80% of the region and heavy to very heavy rain expected in Ranong, Phangnga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun.

Waves in the Andaman Sea are expected to reach 2-3 metres and exceed 3 metres during thunderstorms, prompting warnings for mariners to exercise caution.

Cambodian troops withdraw after border standoff at Chong Bok

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2 June 2026, 19:00

BANGKOK — The Royal Thai Army has reported a brief confrontation after Cambodian troops allegedly attempted to obstruct Thai personnel installing barbed wire in the Chong Bok area of Ubon Ratchathani province, before the situation was later resolved.

Army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree said on Tuesday that the incident occurred around 09:00 when Thai forces from Suranaree Task Force were carrying out a security operation to reinforce defensive positions within Thailand’s deployment line.

During the operation, Thai forces observed five Cambodian soldiers, armed and entering the area of activity. The number later increased to around 20 personnel, who reportedly raised their voices and attempted to obstruct Thai operations.

Thai personnel then exercised restraint and proceeded with controlled engagement and clarification through negotiations on the ground.

The situation de-escalated at around 11:30 after Cambodian troops withdrew from the area.

Authorities said the situation has since returned to normal, although Thai forces remain on alert and continue close monitoring.

The Army stressed that the installation of barbed wire was conducted strictly within Thailand’s territorial control and in accordance with operational deployment lines under the joint statement between the two countries.

It added that the measures are necessary due to the proximity of opposing forces in the area, and are intended to enhance security and reduce the risk of misunderstandings along the border.

Thai Army says Buddha statue placed within Thai territory

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2 June 2026, 18:20

BANGKOK — The Royal Thai Army has defended its actions along the Thai-Cambodian border after Phnom Penh lodged a protest over the construction of a Buddha statue, the installation of Thai flags, and the placement of barbed wire in the area.

Army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree said on Tuesday that all activities were carried out within Thai sovereign territory and under Thai control, stressing they were intended to boost morale among troops and local residents.

He said the installations were conducted in line with Thai laws and regulations, and were meant as a spiritual anchor and morale support for personnel operating along the border.

Cambodia had earlier submitted a formal protest claiming that Thailand’s activities in the border area included construction works, flag installations and barbed wire placement that could affect border stability.

Winthai rejected the claims, saying the barbed wire in the Chong Bok area was a security measure within Thai territory aimed at protecting personnel, reducing the risk of confrontation, and preventing misunderstandings between forces on both sides.

He added that the measures were consistent with efforts to de-escalate tensions and maintain stability along the frontier.

The Thai Army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding sovereignty and ensuring the safety of communities along the border, while adhering strictly to the joint ceasefire statement signed by Thailand and Cambodia on 27 December 2025, and continuing to use bilateral mechanisms to manage border issues.

Myanmar clashes force thousands to flee near Thai border

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2 June 2026, 17:26

TAK — Heavy fighting between Myanmar government troops and Karen armed forces has driven more than 3,000 displaced people toward the Thai border, with around 200 crossing into Thailand’s Tak province, officials said on Tuesday.

On 2 June, the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) launched an offensive against Myanmar forces stationed at Thicha Lae camp, opposite Ban Wale village in Wa Le Subdistrict, Phop Phra district. The group reportedly continued assaults on military positions throughout the day.

The exchange involved small arms and heavy weapons, with fighting heard across the border into Thailand.

As clashes intensified, Myanmar nationals from Shuchukali and Ban Wale areas fled the violence, with more than 3,000 people seeking refuge near the border and around 200 entering Thai territory.

Thai authorities said displaced civilians were being temporarily sheltered and assisted along the border area.

Personnel from the Ratchamanu Task Force, Phop Phra district administration and Border Patrol Police Division 346 have been deployed to provide humanitarian support and ensure security for Thai communities along the border.

Thai Air Force successfully fires rocket from drone

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2 June 2026, 17:25

Thai Air Force successfully fires rocket from drone

BANGKOK — 2 June 2026, The Royal Thai Air Force has triumphed in first test of firing an aerial rocket from a drone, marking a significant step in the development of AI and laser weapon development against future threats.

The test was carried out on Tuesday by the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), through the Directorate of Armament, in cooperation with drone manufacturer NAC Drone to conduct a test-firing of a 2.75-inch aerial rocket from a drone. This operation represents a concrete integration of expertise between a national security agency and Thailand’s domestic defence industry.

The weapon used in the trial was a 2.75-inch aerial rocket, a system widely employed by armed forces around the world for close air support missions. For this iteration, the Ordnance Department developed the fire-control system, designed the launch tube, and modified supporting systems to enable the rocket to be integrated with and launched from the drone platform.

The test was deemed successful after the rocket was launched as planned while the drone maintained stable flight throughout the operation, without losing balance or control. This achievement demonstrated the growing capabilities of Thai engineers and defence personnel in developing advanced weapons systems. Moreover, it is the first successful launch of an aerial rocket from a drone in Thailand that would help enhance national defence capabilities, reduce reliance on foreign technology, and create opportunities for further growth in the domestic defence sector.

An Air Force source said future development plans include equipping drone-launched rockets with guidance systems, developing laser-based weapons, and creating intelligent gun platforms using artificial intelligence (AI) fire-control systems to support the evolving requirements of modern warfare.

Security experts view the development of drone-based weapons and combat support systems as an increasingly important global trend because they can reduce risks to personnel, improve operational accuracy, and provide faster responses to emerging threats. The Air Force’s latest achievement represented an important milestone in Thailand’s efforts to adapt to a technology-driven battlefield environment.

Former couple arrested over alleged child sex trafficking ring in Chonburi

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2 June 2026, 16:39

CHONBURI — 2 June 2026, Thai police have arrested a former married couple accused of using a karaoke bar as a front to force teenage girls into prostitution in Chonburi province. The arrest followed an expanded investigation that led to the rescue of a 15-year-old victim. A background check revealed that the suspects had previously been arrested on human trafficking charges but had allegedly returned to the same criminal activity.

On Tuesday, officers from the Anti-Human Trafficking Division (AHTD) arrested Sakulna (surname withheld), 43, and Niwat (surname withheld), 37, under Criminal Court warrants issued on 2 December 2025 on charges of conspiring to commit human trafficking.

During interviews, two victims identified only as Miss A and Miss B told investigators that they travelled to Pattaya in mid-2024 when they were 15 years old and were lured into working at a karaoke bar in Sattahip district. After contacting the venue, Niwat allegedly drove them there, where they began working the following day.

According to investigators, customers would first drink at the karaoke bar before negotiating payment for sexual services. Payments were allegedly made directly to Sakulna, either by bank transfer or cash, before the victims were taken to a nearby resort. The victims said they received only a portion of the proceeds, with the remainder retained by the establishment.

Prior to the arrests, officers from the AHTD, together with personnel from the International Protection Alliance (IPA) Foundation and the Our Rescue Thailand Foundation, rescued the two victims, who are now receiving psychological rehabilitation and welfare protection.

Investigators determined that despite ending their personal relationship, Sakulna and Niwat continued operating the business together. Police detained Sakulna during a raid on the karaoke bar.

During the operation, officers checked the identities of more than 20 employees and found that all were adults. Niwat was not present during the raid, but investigators arrested him later that night after he returned to the venue.

During questioning, police said Sakulna confessed to the charges. Niwat partially denied the allegations, admitting that he recruited and transported minors to the venue for his ex-wife while claiming he was unaware that prostitution was taking place there.

From police to exorcist in bid to calm woman feared possessed

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2 June 2026, 16:21

LAMPHUN — 2 June 2026, A police officer in northern Thailand took on the role of a traditional exorcist to calm a distressed woman after villagers believed she was possessed by a “Phi Ka”, a spirit from northern Thai folklore.

The incident occurred at about 19:30 on 1 June in Thung Hua Chang district of Lamphun province, where police received reports of a woman displaying erratic behaviour and appearing unable to control herself.

Villagers in the area expressed concern and believed her condition could be linked to possession by a Phi Ka, a spirit in northern Thai folklore believed to possess people and consume raw meat and uncooked food, similar to the better-known “Phi Pop” spirit.

After arriving at the scene, police led by Police Lieutenant Thanakorn Tatsanawetin, deputy inspector for prevention and suppression at Thung Hua Chang Police Station, chose to address the situation in a way that took local beliefs into account rather than dismissing villagers’ concerns.

While speaking with and reassuring the woman, Thanakorn assumed the role of a traditional spiritual practitioner in an effort to ease tensions and help her regain control.

Police said the approach proved effective, and the woman gradually regained composure and was able to control her behaviour.

She was later escorted home safely.

Thanakorn said police work sometimes involves more than enforcing the law.

“Sometimes policing is about the heart,” he said. “When people are in distress and their beliefs are part of how they understand a situation, we are ready to help ensure they feel safe and reassured.”

The incident attracted attention on Thai social media, where many users praised the officer for adapting his response to local cultural beliefs while helping to de-escalate the situation peacefully.

Malaysia bans Thai shrimp after Thailand restricts Malaysian seabass imports

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2 June 2026, 16:05

BANGKOK — Malaysia has imposed tighter controls on seafood imports from Thailand, including a temporary suspension of imports of five shrimp species, in a move linked to an ongoing dispute over food safety standards between the two countries.

The new measures took effect on 1 June and cover black tiger shrimp, whiteleg shrimp, banana shrimp, brown shrimp and blue shrimp, all of which are significant exports for Thailand’s shrimp industry.

According to Thailand’s Office of Commercial Affairs in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia described the restrictions as part of efforts to strengthen national food safety protections. However, officials also characterised the move as a reciprocal response to import conditions previously imposed by Thailand on Malaysian seafood products.

The measures follow action by Thailand’s Department of Fisheries, which conducted inspections of imported Malaysian seabass and detected residue concerns. The findings led to tighter scrutiny of Malaysian seabass imports into Thailand.

Sources at Songkhla’s Sadao customs checkpoint said Malaysian seabass has not entered Thailand through the Sadao or Padang Besar border crossings for several months after failing to obtain approval from Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration. Domestic fish farmers had also complained that lower-priced imports from Malaysia were undercutting local producers.

Malaysia has also introduced stricter requirements for seabass imports from Thailand. Importers must now provide laboratory analysis certificates for each shipment to verify compliance with Malaysian food safety standards.

Malaysian authorities said the suspension of shrimp imports was based on the principle of reciprocity, citing similar restrictions previously applied by Thailand to Malaysian shrimp products.

The import ban will remain in place until Thai authorities provide complete responses to Malaysian inquiries regarding food safety standards. Malaysian regulators will then review the measures before deciding whether to lift or amend them.

Woman discovers intruder on CCTV after cat’s unusual behaviour

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2 June 2026, 15:27

CHONBURI — 2 June 2026, A 22-year-old woman became alarmed after one of her cats appeared terrified and was trembling with fear. When she reviewed CCTV footage to find out what had happened, she allegedly discovered that a man had climbed into her room while she was out grabbing food. She immediately reported the incident to police.

web 1 — CCTV footage shows the intruder entering Miss A’s room at about 18:55

Pol. Lt. Col. Orawan Saengthong, an investigator at Nong Prue Police Station, received a complaint from the woman, identified only as Miss A, after CCTV footage allegedly captured a stranger entering her room at an apartment building in Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district.

The suspect allegedly climbed a rear fire escape ladder, commonly known as a monkey ladder, to the fourth floor before entering Miss A’s room. CCTV footage showed him switching on a bathroom light and walking around inside before the recording was interrupted.

1 bathroom — The intruder opens the bathroom door while Miss A’s cats react to his presence.

Miss A said she lives on the fourth floor of the apartment with her two cats. Before the incident, she briefly went downstairs to grab food. When she returned, she noticed that one of her cats was acting strangely and hiding in the narrow space beside the bed. When she picked him up, the cat was trembling and appeared severely frightened, prompting her to suspect that something had happened while she was out.

She also found that the CCTV camera had been knocked onto the floor and unplugged. When she checked the footage, she discovered that a man had entered her room through a window at about 18:55 while she was out of the room.

After reviewing the footage, Miss A said she immediately checked her belongings and found that nothing appeared to be missing. She provided the CCTV footage to police as evidence and said she had never met or known the man seen in the video.

She said she did not believe the man entered the room to steal property and feared he may have intended to harm her. She added that she was fortunate not to have been in the room at the time.

1 reporting — Miss A speaks to reporters outside Nong Prue Police Station after reporting the alleged intrusion.

Miss A said she had decided to move out of the apartment immediately due to safety concerns. She also urged police to track down the suspect and bring him to justice.

Cambodia launches UNCLOS conciliation after Thailand ends maritime MoU

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2 June 2026, 15:16

PHNOM PENH — Cambodia has formally launched compulsory conciliation proceedings under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) after Thailand terminated a 2001 memorandum of understanding that had served as the main framework for talks on overlapping maritime claims.

In a national address on Tuesday, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Phnom Penh had notified Thailand and the UN secretary-general of its decision to begin the UNCLOS process.

The move follows the Thai Cabinet’s decision on 5 May to withdraw from the 2001 MoU. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the agreement had failed to produce meaningful progress.

Hun Manet said Cambodia viewed the MoU as the only agreed bilateral framework for resolving maritime disputes and developing resources in contested waters. With its cancellation, he said, bilateral negotiations had effectively reached a dead end.

He stressed that UNCLOS conciliation is a peaceful legal mechanism aimed at facilitating negotiations through an independent panel of international experts, not an escalation of the dispute.

Cambodia expects the process to help achieve a fair and lasting settlement while protecting its sovereignty and maritime rights under international law.

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