Transport Minister Denies Link to Ranong Land Purchases

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12 May 2026, 16:26

Transport Minister Denies Link to Ranong Land Purchases

BANGKOK — 12 May 2026, Thailand’s deputy prime minister and transport minister denied on Tuesday any involvement in allegations that a company linked to his family had been buying land in Ranong province in anticipation of the government’s proposed land bridge project.

Speaking at the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters at 15:00, Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn responded to questions about Ama Marine Plc., which recently issued a statement after being linked to reports of land acquisitions in southern Thailand.

“I don’t see how this has anything to do with me, and the company has already issued a clarification,” Phiphat told reporters.

When asked whether a company director shared the Ratchakitprakarn family name, Phiphat acknowledged that the company’s chief executive was his younger brother before asking reporters: “Do you have any problem with that?”

Opposition parties have alleged that the company was acquiring land in Ranong to benefit from the proposed land bridge project, a major infrastructure plan intended to connect the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.

Phiphat rejected the claims, saying the company had already stated publicly that it was not involved and had not purchased any land.

“The company has already clarified that it has no involvement and did not buy any land,” he said, adding that reporters were free to contact the company directly.

Phiphat ended the exchange by saying he did not wish to discuss the matter further because “the more I speak about it, the more it could affect me.”

Knox Jolie-Pitt wins fans with love for Muay Thai

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Khaosod English

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12 May 2026, 15:57

Knox Jolie-Pitt, the 17-year-old son of Hollywood stars Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, is gaining attention among Thai fans for his growing passion for Muay Thai after recently being spotted training seriously at a gym in Los Angeles.

Photos circulating online showed Knox training in Muay Thai shorts featuring the word “Rajadamnern” in Thai script, referencing Rajadamnern Stadium, one of the most historic and respected venues in the sport. Thai social media users quickly praised the teenager’s apparent dedication to Thailand’s national martial art.

According to entertainment reports and paparazzi photos from the past year, Knox has been training consistently in Muay Thai and appears to take the sport seriously. Images from recent sessions showed him stretching, lifting weights, sparring with coaches and training partners, and even continuing after suffering a nosebleed during practice.

His interest in the sport became widely noticed in July 2025 when he celebrated his 17th birthday by competing in an IKF Point Muay Thai Technical competition in Los Angeles. Videos from the event showed Knox exchanging punches and kicks with an opponent before eventually winning a medal. His mother Angelina Jolie and twin sister Vivienne were reportedly present to support him from the crowd.

Knox was also photographed wearing Muay Thai gear branded by Thai companies, including Tuff shorts commonly associated with the sport’s international training community.

In 2025, Knox reportedly travelled to Thailand, where he attended fights at Rajadamnern Stadium and trained at a Muay Thai camp. His visit drew additional interest among Thai fans, many of whom welcomed the growing international appreciation for the sport.

Often referred to as “the art of eight limbs,” Muay Thai is one of Thailand’s most important cultural exports and a globally recognised combat sport. Unlike Western boxing, Muay Thai incorporates punches, elbows, knees and kicks, with fighters using nearly every part of the body both offensively and defensively.

The sport originated centuries ago as a battlefield fighting technique before evolving into a professional combat sport deeply tied to Thai culture and identity. Today, Muay Thai is practised worldwide, attracting professional fighters, fitness enthusiasts and celebrities alike.

Rajadamnern Stadium, founded in 1945, is widely regarded as one of the birthplaces of modern professional Muay Thai and remains among the sport’s most prestigious arenas alongside Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.

Thai Police Link Arms Cache Cambodian Suspect to Scam Gangs

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Khaosod English

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12 May 2026, 15:08

Thai Police Link Arms Cache Cambodian Suspect to Scam Gangs

BANGKOK — 12 May 2026, Thai police revealed evidence and financial records clearly link Chinese-Cambodian suspect, Mingchen Sun, to Cambodian scam networks, while insisting there is no indication he planned terrorist attacks in Thailand.

On May 12, at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwphan, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, provided an update on the investigation after Mingchen Sun was involved in a vehicle rollover accident in Chon Buri province that led authorities to uncover a cache of military-grade weapons at his residence. Police later raided properties linked to the suspect and seized explosives, including C4, M16 assault rifles and numerous grenades.

Significant progress has been made in this case. Trairong said forensic and digital evidence, including chat records, weapons training images and evidence of arms accumulation since late last year, obviously showed clear links between the suspect and scam syndicates operating in Cambodia. Investigators believe the weapons were intended for use in violent conflicts between rival scam gangs.

Trairong continued that based on current evidence, there are no indications that the suspect or his network aimed to carry out sabotage or attacks against Thai citizens. Police also dismissed the suspect’s claim that he suffered from depression and collected weapons with suicidal intentions, saying investigators would rely primarily on forensic evidence for the legal proceedings even though it is within the suspect’s right to provide such testimony.

Regarding the financial investigation, the Cyber Police has been tasked with tracing the suspect’s financial transactions in detail. Authorities found tens of millions of baht circulating through bank and cryptocurrency accounts allegedly linked directly to scam operations in Cambodia.

Trairong said police are also expanding the investigation into companies previously registered by the suspect and his former wife, as well as the circumstances surrounding their marriage registration to uncover any further links to the broader criminal network.

Concerning the suspect’s legal status and entry into the country, Trairong indicated that following the investigation, Sun entered Thailand legally using both Chinese and Cambodian passports and held a PE (Privilege Entry) visa designed for wealthy foreign nationals. Investigators also found he possessed long-term residency status in South Korea.

Trairong added that the Royal Thai Police will use this case as a lesson to be learned for future prevention. Authorities are considering closer coordination between security data integration and agencies responsible for visa issuance, including the possible introduction of a scoring system for foreign nationals to prevent criminals from exploiting investment-based privileges to enter the country. As for the 2,000-baht bribery scandal for illegal Pink Card (identification for non-Thai nationals) registration, he clarified that it was an act of personal misconduct by certain officials, promising decisive legal action against them.

Police said regarding the expansion of the investigation, a total of six suspects have so far been identified in the case, including state officials allegedly involved in illegally selling Glock pistols to unqualified buyers. The Metropolitan Police have already launched a dual disciplinary and criminal investigation into the matter. While authorities are also tracing the origins of the military-grade weapons, such as the M16 rifle and explosives. Although traffickers attempted to erase serial numbers from firearms, investigators said they had already identified the source of at least one weapon and were continuing to investigate smuggling routes.

Trairong stressed that Thailand was not a base for transnational criminal organisations or grey Chinese capital networks, but acknowledged that the country’s location near neighbouring scam compounds and its status as a tourism hub made it vulnerable to exploitation by criminal groups. Thai authorities are now coordinating with both China and Cambodia to dismantle the networks, while insisting there has been no foreign interference in Thailand’s sovereignty.

National police chief, Kitrat Phanphet, has ordered all relevant agencies to use the case to strengthen monitoring and screening measures for high-risk foreign nationals, from entry procedures to long-term residence controls to ensure the highest level of safety and security for the nation and Thai citizens.

“As the suspect recently suffered seizures and severe shock after allegedly refusing food for three days while detained at Pattaya Remand Prison, requiring emergency hospital treatment. Authorities said now his condition has stabilised, but he remains under 24-hour guard by special commando units,” Trairong said.

Trairong added that the suspect is currently under the custody of the Department of Corrections. Therefore, any medical updates should come directly from them. The National Police Chief is closely monitoring the situation and has demanded the highest level of security and supervision, while acknowledging the suspect’s fundamental right to receive necessary medical care. Addressing concerns that the suspect’s depression might be a tactic to escape prosecution, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong clarified that although medical records were found, investigators aren’t fully convinced. While the suspect is free to make medical excuses, the prosecution will rely heavily on digital evidence and chat logs to prove the facts. He emphasized that the police’s investigative methods are sophisticated enough to see through any deceptive claims, assuring the public that justice will not be derailed by the suspect’s narrative.

Responding to criticism that the weapons haul was a fluke resulting from a car crash, stating that credit must go to the sharp-witted First Responders. He emphasized that these officers went beyond standard procedures for a traffic accident, spotting suspicious signs that led to the discovery of the stash. This prevented a potential attack abroad. The case will now be used to train other units.

He further addressed concerns that the police rushed to conclude the investigation on the first day, potentially damaging public trust. He reaffirmed that the Royal Thai Police never rushes its conclusions. Every step of the investigation, the filing of charges, and the information released to the public have been strictly based on evidence, following a transparent and meticulous process.

Thailand lists Ta Muen, Ta Kwai as ancient monuments

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Khaosod English

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12 May 2026, 14:51

Thailand lists Ta Muen, Ta Kwai as ancient monuments

SURIN — 12 May 2026, Thailand’s Fine Arts Department has officially added several historical sites in Surin province to the national register of ancient monuments, including the Ta Muen and Ta Kwai temple complexes near the Cambodian border.

The announcement was published in the Royal Gazette on 12 May under a Fine Arts Department declaration listing protected ancient sites across Surin province.

The declaration cited the Ancient Monuments, Antiques, Objects of Art and National Museums Act of 1961, as amended in 1992, which defines ancient monuments as immovable properties of artistic, historical or archaeological significance, including archaeological sites, historical sites and historical parks.

The department said the listing was intended to provide clearer legal protection for ancient monuments under Thai heritage conservation laws.

The newly registered sites are as follows:
Kap Choeng district
• Prasat Mon Charoen
• Prasat Beng
• Prasat Chem
• Prasat Nong Khana (also known as Prasat Nong Khanna, Prasat Khana or Prasat Nong Khanai)
Bua Chet district
• Prasat O Thalan
Phanom Dong Rak district
• Prasat Ban Nong Khanna
• Prasat Ta Muen (also known as Prasat Bay Krim)
• Prasat Ta Kwai (also referred to as Prasat Ta Wai)
Sangkha district
• Prasat Tao Thong

The declaration was signed on 9 April 2026 by Fine Arts Department director-general Phanomboot Chanthachot.

Survey work begins for contested Trump Triumphal Arch project in Washington

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Associated Press

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12 May 2026, 13:58

WASHINGTON (AP) — Workers began preliminary surveys and testing Monday of the proposed site of a Triumphal Arch sought by President Donald Trump, the latest step in plans for the contentious project in the nation’s capital.

Workers were seen inspecting the site of the proposed arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery with tools and equipment. Part of the site was fenced off and pink flags typically used as survey markings were planted in the grass.

The work on the site was announced in a court filing Thursday in a federal lawsuit challenging the proposed arch. It consists of “surveys and geotechnical testing which are being used to generate information that will assist Defendant National Park Service (NPS) in completing procedural prerequisites” that are part of the decision-making process.

The 250-foot-tall (76-meter) proposed arch is one of several projects the Republican president is pursuing to leave his lasting imprint on Washington. With the potential to change the city’s sightline, it has already sparked opposition, including through the lawsuit filed by a group of veterans and a historian.

The arch design, proposed by Trump, has already gotten early approval from the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, whose members were appointed by Trump.

The proposed monument rises from the four lions guarding its base to a torch held aloft by a Lady Liberty-like figure on top, which would be flanked by two eagles — all gilded. The phrases “One Nation Under God” and “Liberty and Justice for All” would be inscribed in gold lettering atop either side of the monument.

AP26132024195906 — President Donald Trump

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment, nor did the Public Citizen Litigation Group representing the four plaintiffs.

The group of veterans and a historian have sued in federal court to block construction on the grounds that the arch would disrupt the sightline between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington House at Arlington National Cemetery, among other reasons.

The court filing on behalf of the Trump administration said the National Park Service had not issued a final agency action authorizing construction of an arch and should it do so, it would provide at least 14 days notice before any work could begin.

The document said the plaintiffs had been notified of the survey work beforehand and said the survey work did not constitute “construction, or a demolition in preparation for construction, of an arch.”

Nicolas Sansone, a lawyer with the Public Citizen Litigation Group that brought the lawsuit on behalf of the plaintiffs, said the government taking the preparatory steps for the construction of the arch is a confirmation that it intends to move forward. “Unless and until Congress has passed a law authorizing the arch, though, the project is unlawful, and the government has no valid basis for pursuing it,” Sansone added.

South Korea blacklists workers from 4 Thai provinces

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Khaosod English

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12 May 2026, 13:35

Thailand’s Department of Employment has confirmed that South Korea has blacklisted workers from four northeastern provinces and suspended the import of seasonal labourers under the E-8 visa scheme for one year after many workers reportedly absconded from employers.

According to information shared by the Anti-Fake News Center Thailand on Monday, citing the Labour Ministry’s Department of Employment, the affected provinces are Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum and Maha Sarakham.

The suspension covers the entire 2026 calendar year, after South Korean authorities found that a number of Thai workers sent under the memorandum of understanding (MOU) programme for seasonal agricultural and fisheries work had fled their designated employers. Officials said the issue has significantly affected Thailand’s labour quota for 2026.

The Department of Employment advised people seeking overseas jobs to check recruitment details and schedules through the department’s overseas employment website and official channels.

Anutin drives motorcycle grocery cart around Thai Khu Fah Building to promote the Thai Help Thai campaign

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Khaosod English

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12 May 2026, 13:02

BANGKOK — 12 May 2026, 12 May 2026, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun rode a motorcycle with a mobile grocery sidecar around Government House on Tuesday to promote the government’s “Thai Help Thai” campaign aimed at reducing living costs through discounted food and household goods sales.

The pair toured the grounds near the Thai Khu Fah Building aboard a “rot phum phuang” motorcycle sidecar vendor cart before opening the event, which featured discounted food products, consumer goods and household necessities from government agencies and private-sector partners.

The “Thai Help Thai” campaign was launched earlier this year as part of the government’s efforts to reduce living costs and support household spending amid weak economic conditions and high consumer expenses.

Officials said the programme includes mobile sales trucks, community distribution points and special discount promotions aimed at helping lower-income households access cheaper essential goods.

Photos released by Government House showed Anutin driving the sidecar motorcycle, a familiar sight in Thai neighbourhoods where roaming vendors sell vegetables, dry goods and other daily necessities directly to residents.

The appearance appeared designed to highlight the campaign’s grassroots approach and connect the programme with everyday community commerce.

Thailand Reviews Visa-Free Stay, May Cut Limit to 30 Days

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Khaosod English

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12 May 2026, 11:57

Thailand Reviews Visa-Free Stay, May Cut Limit to 30 Days

BANGKOK — 12 May 2026, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, confirmed the government is reviewing its visa-free entry scheme for tourists by reducing permitted stays to no more than 30 days to prevent foreigners from misusing the system or engaging in activities affecting national security.

Speaking before a Cabinet meeting regarding the review of visa-free measures at Government House on 12 May, Sihasak said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out the existence of multiple visa types, believing the current 60-day visa-free period for tourists may be excessive. He noted that some visitors might not be genuine tourists and could exploit these measures, necessitating stricter regulations.

The proposal had originally been prepared since the first term of the Anutin-led administration, but was postponed because of the election period, Sihasak said. He added that the government now intends to move forward with the review urgently.

Under the process, the Secretariat of the Cabinet will consult relevant agencies, although Sihasak said he believed there will be no issues as the Foreign Ministry-led visa committee already closely monitoring the situation from related agencies.

Sihasak said he discussed the issue with Prime Minister on 11 May. He said Thailand currently has a large number of visa categories being pushed by various agencies, and while these initiatives are introduced with good intentions, including for foreign experts and soft-power support, but added that some measures may exceed actual necessity and should be reassessed.

Asked when the conclusion on streamlining visa criteria would be reached, Sihasak said the first priority was reviewing visa-free tourist entry following recent incidents involving Chinese citizens in Thailand. He clarified that his comments on the visa policy were not merely a reaction to these events, as the review had been initiated long before. Furthermore, the government plans to conduct a comprehensive review of all visa categories to determine if they are truly necessary or can be consolidated.

Asked whether the visa-free status for Chinese nationals would be shortened or revoked entirely, Mr. Sihasak emphasized that the government is not targeting any specific country. Instead, the focus is on activities that may pose risks to Thailand. Tourist visas should be granted for a duration appropriate for tourism, likely not exceeding 30 days, with criteria strictly aligned with their intended purpose.

He added that the focus is on if visitors are following their visa conditions. The government is not targeting any specific group, but it must tighten enforcement against those involved in illicit activities or security threats, as seen in the recent case of the Chinese suspect who was taken into custody.

CKPower reports strong Q1 2026 profit growth despite dry season

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MC Marketing

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12 May 2026, 11:48

Robust Renewable Energy Portfolio Demonstrates Resilience Amid Energy Price Volatility Advances El Niño Preparedness with Hydro Forecasting System

Mr. Thanawat Trivisvavet, Managing Director of CK Power Public Company Limited (SET: CKP), one of the region’s largest producers of electricity from renewables with one of the lowest carbon footprints, announced the continuous growth of CKPower’s Q1/2026 operating performance, with Core Net Profit of Baht 115.9 million, representing an increase of Baht 52.5 million, or 82.9% compared to the same period last year.

The growth was primarily driven by the strong performance of both two main hydroelectric power plants of the Company. The Company recognized a share of core net profit of Xayaburi Power Company Limited (XPCL) amounting to Baht 198.6 million, an increase of Baht 190.7 million year-over-year. This was mainly attributable to higher water inflow through the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant compared to the same period last year, resulting in increased electricity sales volume. In addition, XPCL benefited from lower financial costs following the gradual repayment of long-term loans and the decline in interest rates in line with the global interest rate trend.

In addition, Nam Ngum 2 Power Company Limited (NN2) reported an improved performance, driven by higher electricity sales year-over-year. This was supported by higher reservoir water levels at the beginning of 2026, as well as increased water inflows during the first quarter of 2026. As a result, CKPower’s overall performance in the first quarter of this year continued to grow steadily, despite the dry season.

Mr. Thanawat added that the renewable energy-based portfolio of CKPower has helped CKPower to avoid the impacts from conflict in the Middle East and volatility in global energy prices to the Company’s operating performance. The impact is only limited to fuel costs associated with electricity sales to industrial customers of Bangpa-in Cogeneration Company Limited (BIC), which account for approximately 3% of CKPower’s total electricity generation.

“The probability of El Niño condition is expected to gradually increase in the second half of 2026. To mitigate this risk, the Company has proactively made preparation for the El Niño condition by continuing to enhance its Hydrometeorological Monitoring and Forecasting System. This aims to enhance efficiency and accuracy in electricity declaration of the Company’s hydroelectric power plants. As for the Luang Prabang Hydroelectric Power Project, construction progress reached 72% as of the end of March 2026, which was in line with the plan.”

CKPower also maintains a solid financial position. As at March 31, 2026, the Company maintained a Liquidity Ratio of 1.78 times, while the Net Interest-bearing Debt to Equity Ratio remained at a low level of 0.47 times. This reflects effective liquidity management and strong debt servicing capability. Furthermore, any additional reductions in policy interest rates of the United States and Thailand would help lower financial costs and support CKPower’s performance in 2026. The Company will continue to closely monitor interest rate movements and prudently manage its long-term debt to ensure an appropriate capital structure.

Mr. Thanawat stated that, under the Company’s five-year plan (2026–2030), CKPower aims to expand its power generation capacity through solar power projects in the form of Private PPA and participation in government renewable energy bidding, alongside the sale of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). In 2025, CKPower Group’s renewable energy facilities supplied over 10 million megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable electricity to Thailand, representing approximately 17% of the total renewable electricity used in the country. The Group’s operations also helped avoid 5.34 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e) greenhouse gas emissions. CKPower firmly believes that renewable energy is at the core of the energy transition. The Company continues to drive progress toward achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

MV Hondius evacuation ends as hantavirus monitoring continues

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Khaosod English

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12 May 2026, 11:21

MV Hondius evacuation ends as hantavirus monitoring continues

TENERIFE — 12 May 2026, All passengers and crew aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius have now been evacuated following an outbreak of hantavirus that left three people dead and several others infected, while health authorities continue monitoring passengers who have begun showing symptoms after returning home.

The final group of six passengers, along with some crew members, disembarked off the coast of Tenerife, Spain, on 11 May, marking the end of a complex international evacuation operation. The group included four Australians, one British resident of Australia and one New Zealander, who were later transferred to the Netherlands for quarantine.

Governments including Spain, France, Canada, Britain and the United States arranged charter flights to repatriate citizens after the outbreak aboard the vessel. In total, 94 passengers and crew members were returned to their home countries following the ship’s 41-day voyage from southern Argentina. The final evacuation flight departed Tenerife around midday on 11 May local time.

Last6passengersleaveHantavirus hitship 04 — Passengers are disembarked from the hantavirus-stricken cruise ship MV Hondius at the port of Granadilla in Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain, Sunday, May 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

The Dutch Foreign Ministry said 19 crew members and three doctors who remained on board to care for passengers had already arrived in the Netherlands. The MV Hondius, carrying the remaining 26 crew members, is now heading to the Netherlands for disinfection.

The first positive hantavirus test aboard the vessel was reported nine days ago. The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised all passengers to quarantine for 42 days from 10 May because the virus can incubate for up to six weeks. However, quarantine measures vary between countries.

Spanish passengers are required to remain in hospital quarantine for 42 days. French passengers must stay under hospital observation for 72 hours before continuing isolation at home for a further 45 days. American passengers may choose between home quarantine or isolation at a facility in Nebraska.

Last6passengersleaveHantavirus hitship 03 — Passengers are sprayed with disinfectant by Spanish government officials before boarding a plane after disembarking from the hantavirus-stricken cruise ship MV Hondius at Tenerife airport in the Canary Islands, Spain, Sunday, May 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Arturo Rodriguez)

Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO director for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, said passengers should undergo daily health monitoring either at home or in designated quarantine facilities, depending on national guidelines.

WHO said seven confirmed cases of Andes hantavirus have been identified, along with two additional suspected cases. One suspected patient died before testing could be carried out, while the other is on Tristan da Cunha, a remote island in the South Atlantic without local testing facilities.

The death toll remains at three, including two Dutch passengers and one German passenger. Two of the deaths have been confirmed as hantavirus infections. WHO believes the first fatal case may have contracted the virus before boarding the ship while travelling in Argentina and Chile.

Last6passengersleaveHantavirus hitship 05 — A Spanish passenger is sprayed with disinfectant by Spanish government officials before boarding a plane after disembarking from the hantavirus-stricken cruise ship MV Hondius at Tenerife airport in the Canary Islands, Spain, Sunday, May 10, 2026. (AP Photo)

US health authorities said on 10 May that one American passenger among 17 evacuees tested positive for hantavirus, although the result remained inconclusive, while another passenger had begun showing symptoms. French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu also said one French passenger developed symptoms during the return flight home.

Hantavirus is primarily spread through contact with rodent excretions, although limited human-to-human transmission can occur through close contact in rare cases. The Andes strain detected aboard the ship can cause severe respiratory illness and carries mortality rates of up to 50% in some cases.

Health officials stressed that the public should not panic, saying hantavirus spreads far less easily than COVID-19 and is unlikely to trigger a global outbreak.

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