Russian arrested with 17kg of cannabis at Phuket airport

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8 July 2026, 15:40

Russian arrested with 17kg of cannabis at Phuket airport

PHUKET — 8 July 2026, A 30-year-old Russian man was arrested at Phuket International Airport after authorities seized more than 17 kilograms of cannabis flower and resin concealed in his luggage as he prepared to leave Thailand.

The arrest took place at around 10:00 in the international departures terminal at Phuket International Airport in Mai Khao subdistrict, Thalang district.

Customs officers from Phuket Airport inspected two blue BP WORLD suitcases belonging to Chalabari, a 30-year-old Russian national.

A search uncovered 35 vacuum-sealed packages of cannabis flower weighing a combined 11.4 kilograms, along with 12 packages of cannabis resin weighing 6.2 kilograms, hidden inside the two suitcases. The luggage was seized as evidence.

During initial questioning, the suspect allegedly admitted ownership of both the luggage and the seized items.

Authorities charged him with attempting to illegally export goods from the Kingdom without completing customs procedures. He was handed over, along with the seized evidence, to investigators at Sakhu Police Station for legal proceedings.

The operation was conducted jointly by officers from Sakhu Police Station and Phuket Airport Customs under the supervision of senior police and customs officials. The suspect was formally transferred to investigators for further legal action.

Can Thai iced tea cause gallstones? Viral post highlights unclear health claim

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Khaosod English

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8 July 2026, 15:18

BANGKOK — 8 July 2026, A Thai woman has gone viral after sharing her experience of undergoing three separate surgeries for nearly 50 gallstones, which she believes were linked to drinking Thai iced tea every day for about a decade.

In a Facebook post, the woman shared a health warning about her daily habit of drinking Thai iced tea after it led to abdominal pain, prompting her to seek hospital treatment. Accompanying photographs of gallstones removed during treatment, she wrote: “The result of drinking #ThaiIcedTea every day: 19 gallstones.

She later followed up in the comments to answer questions from netizens, explaining that she typically drank one glass of Thai iced tea each day, sometimes two, while consuming very little plain water. She said she had maintained the habit for around 10 years before developing abdominal pain beneath the right side of her ribcage, prompting her to seek medical attention.

Doctors diagnosed her with gallstones and scheduled three surgeries. She said the first procedure was not photographed, while the images she shared online were taken after the second surgery. She added that doctors estimated she had nearly 50 gallstones in total and that a third operation was scheduled three months later.

Although the woman believes her long-term Thai iced tea habit contributed to her condition, doctors generally say gallstones develop from multiple risk factors, including genetics, diet, obesity, age, rapid weight loss and certain medical conditions. There is no conclusive evidence that drinking Thai iced tea alone directly causes gallstones, though excessive consumption of sugary beverages may contribute to overall health risks.

Police hunt foreign tourist after alleged Patong jet ski assault

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Khaosod English

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8 July 2026, 13:55

Police hunt foreign tourist after alleged Patong jet ski assault

PHUKET — 8 July 2026, Police are searching for a foreign tourist accused of assaulting a jet ski operator at Patong Beach after allegedly refusing to pay for damage caused in a jet ski collision.

The incident occurred on Tuesday at Patong Beach in Kathu district after the tourist allegedly crashed a rented jet ski into another watercraft, causing damage. According to the operator, the tourist refused to pay for the repairs, walked away from the beach and later allegedly attacked the caretaker during a dispute.

The jet ski operator said he initially tried to resolve the matter amicably, explaining that there was clear evidence showing the tourist had damaged the jet ski. However, the tourist allegedly refused to compensate for the damage and walked toward Bangla Road.

The operator said he followed the tourist to ask why he would not accept responsibility, prompting a heated argument. He alleged the tourist then lifted him and slammed him to the ground before repeatedly punching him in the face and fleeing the scene.

Doctors later found the victim had sustained multiple injuries, including facial swelling, extensive bruising and a fractured cheekbone. He said he did not fight back because he wanted the matter to be handled through legal channels.

The victim later filed a complaint with investigators at Patong Police Station, telling officers that a family of three foreign tourists—a man, a woman and a child—had rented two jet skis before one of the watercrafts was damaged in the collision.

According to his statement, the family walked toward Bangla Road after refusing to pay for the damage. When he followed them, the man allegedly assaulted him before fleeing toward Jungceylon Shopping Centre.

Pol. Col. Korakrit Khankhruea, superintendent of Patong Police Station, said investigators had been ordered to review CCTV footage and gather evidence to identify and locate the suspect.

He said police would pursue legal action while ensuring fairness to all parties involved.

The victim is seeking compensation for both the damaged jet ski and his injuries, and called on authorities to take firm action against tourists who break the law to help maintain confidence among tourism operators and workers in Phuket.

Bangkok backs EV charging push to reach net zero by 2050

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Khaosod English

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8 July 2026, 13:40

Bangkok backs EV charging push to reach net zero by 2050

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has joined forces with the private sector to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure as part of its drive to achieve carbon neutrality (net zero) by 2050.

On 8 July 2026, at Zeekr House Charoen Nakhon in Thon Buri district, Deputy Bangkok Governor’s Office Permanent Secretary Lertlak Leelarueangsang attended a press conference and co-chaired the opening ceremony of a new EV charging station. She also delivered a keynote address titled “Sustainable Mobility for Carbon-Free Future.” Executives from the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), TPM Group, Zeekr Thailand, and representatives from government agencies and private companies also attended the event.

Lertlak said the BMA has made sustainable urban development and climate action key priorities through the implementation of its Climate Change Master Plan. The city has also introduced major initiatives, including the Bangkok Energy Action Plan and the Waste and Wastewater Action Plan, aimed at delivering tangible reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

Bangkok is targeting Net Zero emissions by 2050, with an interim goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 49% by 2030, equivalent to around 10.15 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. The strategy focuses on four key sectors: energy, transportation, waste and wastewater management, and green urban development.

She said the transport sector offers one of the greatest opportunities for emissions reduction, accounting for up to 39% of the city’s overall reduction target. Promoting electric vehicles is therefore a key measure to reduce air pollution, cut greenhouse gas emissions and improve residents’ quality of life.

The BMA has continued to promote clean-energy transportation through initiatives such as the BMA Feeder electric bus service, which connects with mass transit routes, and electric passenger boats operating along Khlong Saen Saep. The city is also gradually replacing government vehicles with EVs to serve as a model for low-carbon public sector operations.

Lertlak said the launch of the charging station marked another milestone in public-private cooperation to strengthen EV infrastructure. The project is expected to improve convenience for EV users, boost consumer confidence, support the growth of Thailand’s electric vehicle industry and help transform Bangkok into a sustainable low-carbon city.

“The BMA is ready to work with government agencies, the private sector and the public to develop cleaner transport systems, improve energy efficiency, embrace future technologies and enhance people’s quality of life while advancing toward Bangkok’s Net Zero goal by 2050,” she said.

The newly opened ZEEKR Power TPM 960 Ultra Fast Charging station is located at the Bukkhalo intersection on Charoen Nakhon Road. Equipped with 960-kilowatt charging capacity, the company said it is the most powerful EV charging station in Thailand. A live demonstration featuring the ZEEKR 7X showcased the station’s ultra-fast charging capability.

TPM Automotive Group currently operates two EV showrooms: one on Charoen Nakhon Road, which sells ZEEKR vehicles, and another on Kanchanaphisek Road. The company plans to open three additional branches by 2026 to support the growing EV market and Thailand’s transition to clean energy.

Belgian woman held at Phuket airport with 31.7kg of cannabis

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Khaosod English

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8 July 2026, 12:19

Belgian woman held at Phuket airport with 31.7kg of cannabis

PHUKET — 7 July 2026, Authorities at Phuket International Airport arrested a 21-year-old Belgian tourist after allegedly discovering about 31.7 kilograms of cannabis packed inside two suitcases she was preparing to check in for an international flight.

Officers at the airport’s international departures terminal identified two suspicious suitcases, one green-and-white and the other black, during baggage screening.

A search uncovered 12 vacuum-sealed packages containing 28.3 kilograms of cannabis flower, along with eight packages of processed cannabis weighing 3.4 kilograms, bringing the total seizure to approximately 31.7 kilograms.

The woman initially admitted that both suitcases and their contents belonged to her, authorities said.

She was charged with attempting to export goods without customs clearance under the Customs Act 2017, as well as offences under Thailand’s Narcotics Code, the Thai Traditional Medicine Protection and Promotion Act 1999, the Ministry of Public Health’s 2025 Notification on Controlled Herbs (Cannabis), and other relevant laws.

The suspect and the seized cannabis were handed over to investigators at Sakhu Police Station for legal proceedings.

Pol. Col. Salan Santisatsanakul, superintendent of Sakhu Police Station, said the arrest was the result of coordinated operations between customs and security agencies to strengthen passenger and baggage screening at Phuket International Airport and prevent the illegal export of cannabis and other prohibited goods.

He said authorities would continue to strictly enforce the law against anyone attempting to smuggle controlled substances out of the country.

Bangkok enters global top 10 for luxury living costs for the first time

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Khaosod English

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8 July 2026, 11:49

BANGKOK — 7 July 2026, Bangkok has entered the world’s top 10 most expensive cities for luxury living for the first time, according to the Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report 2026 published by Swiss private bank Julius Baer.

The Thai capital climbed from 11th place in 2025 to 10th this year, marking its first appearance in the top 10 since Julius Baer introduced the index in 2020.

The ranking is based on the prices of 20 categories of premium goods and services across 25 cities worldwide, reflecting the cost of maintaining a high-end lifestyle for high-net-worth individuals.

Julius Baer said the Asia-Pacific region remains a global wealth hub, with five cities in the top 10: Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sydney and Bangkok. Bangkok’s rise reflects growth in the luxury goods market and spending among affluent consumers in the region.

Singapore retained the top spot as the world’s most expensive city for luxury living for a fourth consecutive year, driven by property and vehicle costs, as well as the strength of the Singapore dollar.

Zurich climbed to second place, while Monaco entered the top three for the first time. Hong Kong and London ranked fourth and fifth, respectively.

The report also found that the global cost of luxury living rose by an average of 10.2% in US dollar terms in 2026. Key factors included stronger currencies in several countries and higher material prices, particularly gold, which pushed up the cost of luxury items such as jewellery and watches.

Top 10 cities for luxury living costs in 2026 according:

Singapore
Zurich, Switzerland
Monaco
Hong Kong
London, United Kingdom
Shanghai, China
Paris, France
Sydney, Australia
Milan, Italy
Bangkok, Thailand

BTS Concert ticket scam victims question donation funds

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Khaosod English

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8 July 2026, 11:02

BTS Concert ticket scam victims question donation funds

BANGKOK — 8 July 2026, an online dispute has emerged among members of a victim group in an alleged BTS concert ticket scam, with some participants calling for an inquiry into donations collected by one of the group’s representatives to fund a trip to Parliament. The controversy has intensified after social media users linked the representative to allegations from an unrelated fundraising case last year.

The group was formed after hundreds of people reported being defrauded in connection with BTS concert ticket sales, with total losses estimated at several million baht. Victims organised through a Line OpenChat group to monitor the case, gather evidence and coordinate police complaints across multiple jurisdictions before seeking assistance from Members of Parliament from the People’s Party.

On 11 June, several representatives submitted a petition and held a press conference at Parliament. One representative, identified publicly as “Rinrin”, helped coordinate the effort and took part in the briefing.

Following the petition, however, some members questioned how donations collected before the trip had been managed. According to the complainants, Rinrin accepted contributions through a bank account belonging to her boyfriend, saying the money would cover travel and related expenses. They said victims donated a combined total of about 20,000 baht.

Some donors later alleged that the actual expenses totalled only about 3,000 baht and called for a detailed accounting of the funds, along with the return of the remaining balance.

The complainants alleged that Rinrin initially said the remaining money would be refunded in stages but later left the group’s chat without doing so. They also claimed that updates on the case were at times shared only with donors and alleged that Rinrin had repeatedly sought financial support for various expenses, sometimes expressing disappointment when assistance was not provided.

Some members further alleged that other representatives who travelled to Parliament did not receive any reimbursement for travel or fuel costs despite participating in the petition, while one representative travelling from another province was reimbursed only for a round-trip bus fare.

Separately, some social media users have claimed that Rinrin is the same person accused in an unrelated savings mobilisation scheme last year involving alleged losses of about 926,640 baht. Those online claims also alleged that funds from the scheme were used for gambling and that victims have not been repaid.

Other unverified posts alleged that the individual later changed her name and had previously faced legal proceedings. None of those claims has been independently verified, and no official confirmation has been provided by authorities.

As of 8 July, Rinrin had not publicly responded to the allegations regarding the donations or the claims circulating online. Several members of the victim group have called on her to issue a public explanation to address the concerns and improve transparency.

PM opens THAIDEF-EX 2026, backs self-reliant defence

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Khaosod English

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8 July 2026, 10:21

NONTHABURI — 8 July 2026, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Tuesday inaugurated the Thailand Defence Industry Exhibition 2026 (THAIDEF-EX 2026), reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening the domestic defence industry, promoting self-reliance and boosting Thailand’s competitiveness, while ending his remarks with the message, “Make Love, Not War.”

The opening ceremony was held at 08:00 on 8 July 2026 at the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Defence in Si Saman, Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi.

Anutin, who also serves as interior minister, arrived at the venue standing atop a First Win mine-resistant armoured vehicle alongside Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Adul Boonthamcharoen. Several cabinet members also attended the event, including Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, Deputy Prime Minister and Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Minister Yoschanan Wongsawat, Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office Paradorn Prissananantakul and Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi.

In his opening address, Anutin said the exhibition demonstrates Thailand’s readiness not only to safeguard its sovereignty but also to build economic resilience through greater self-reliance.

He said the global landscape has shifted dramatically, with geopolitical conflicts disrupting trade, investment and supply chains that once operated with few restrictions.

“Many countries are now turning towards self-reliance to ensure security and sustainable production instead of depending on imports,” he said.

The prime minister said developing Thailand’s defence industry would strengthen national security while creating opportunities to advance technology, upgrade manufacturing capabilities and generate greater economic value.

He said Thailand’s manufacturing capacity and strategic location position the country to become a competitive production hub for defence technologies in the global market.

Anutin described THAIDEF-EX 2026 as a major milestone in the country’s industrial development, saying investment in the defence sector would encourage research, high technology development, engineering and innovation, while creating opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs to move into higher-value industries.

He noted that many technologies widely used today, including unmanned aerial vehicles, satellite navigation systems and advanced materials, originated from defence-related research before being adapted for commercial and civilian applications.

The prime minister stressed that investment in the defence industry should be viewed not only as an investment in national security but also in the future competitiveness of Thailand’s economy.

He expressed confidence that Thailand has the potential to become one of the region’s leading producers of defence technology.

Anutin also pledged continued cooperation between domestic and international partners to establish an integrated ecosystem linking research, development and manufacturing.

He said the memorandum of understanding signed between the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and the Ministry of Industry marks an important strategic step in connecting research expertise, production capabilities and operational needs to develop Thailand’s defence technology sector.

Following the ceremony, Anutin toured exhibition booths showcasing weapons and military equipment produced by Thai companies. He signed a commemorative message using a bullet-shaped pen, writing, “Congratulations on your success.”

Before leaving, he reiterated his personal message to reporters, saying, “Make Love, Not War.”

Central Pattana launches THB11bn ‘CenTRal cENtrAL’ in Siam Square

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Khaosod English

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7 July 2026, 18:08

BANGKOK — Central Pattana has unveiled plans for an 11-billion-baht mixed-use development in the heart of Bangkok’s Siam Square, featuring Thailand’s first 25hours Hotel, as part of efforts to strengthen the district’s position as a global destination for youth, creativity and lifestyle.

The project, named ‘CenTRal cENtrAL’, is being developed in partnership with Mitsubishi Estate (Thailand) at the Pathumwan intersection. It will combine retail, office and hospitality facilities, along with public spaces designed to support creative communities and cultural activities.

The retail complex will house more than 300 local and international brands across multiple lifestyle zones, targeting Gen Z consumers, tourists and office workers. The development will also include more than 3,400 square metres of public space under the company’s “CenTRal Future Makers” concept, aimed at nurturing young entrepreneurs, artists and creators.

Among its highlights are the Social Theatre, a flexible venue for performances and community events, and the Skyline Theatre, a rooftop green space intended for outdoor activities and gatherings. The project will also feature pop-up retail spaces for emerging brands and startups.

A key attraction will be the arrival of 25hours Hotel, marking the German lifestyle brand’s debut in Thailand. The hotel chain currently operates in just 13 cities worldwide and is known for its design-led, locally inspired properties.

Construction will be completed in phases. The retail component is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2027, followed by office space later that year, while the 25hours Hotel is expected to welcome guests in early 2029.

Central Pattana said the development is intended to reinforce Siam Square’s reputation as a Global Youth Culture Destination, while attracting international visitors, global brands and investment to one of Bangkok’s busiest commercial districts. The company added that the project reflects its long-term strategy of creating mixed-use destinations that combine commerce, culture and community in central urban locations.

“From Farms to Space” CPF supports Chai Charoen Fresh in elevating Thai Holy Basil from backyard gardens to space standards

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Mc Marketing

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7 July 2026, 17:39

Beyond the distinctive aroma and bold flavor of “Pad Krapow” (Stir-fried Holy Basil), a highly favored dish nationwide, lies the remarkable growth trajectory of a Thai SME that has successfully transcended the limitations of backyard cultivation to achieve international standards. Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CPF) has served as a steadfast partner, driving a successful business model for Chai Charoen Fresh Co., Ltd. and its network of over 100 small farmers. Through this collaboration, they have evolved into producers of premium fresh holy basil, rigorously adhering to space-food safety standards and ensuring utmost consumer confidence in every meal.

8 Years of Trust: From Business Partners to Strategic Collaborators

Eight years ago, Chai Charoen Fresh Co., Ltd. embarked on its fresh vegetable enterprise with profound dedication. Recognizing the complexities of expanding within the modern food industry, Mr. Chaitawee Somsanya, Managing Director of CCF, identified the partnership with CPF as a pivotal milestone. CPF provided more than purchase orders; they acted as a “mentor,” facilitating a comprehensive restructuring of CCF’s operational systems. At present, Chai Charoen Fresh oversees a network exceeding 100 small farmers across Sing Buri, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Pathum Thani, Sa Kaeo, and Kanchanaburi provinces. These farmers have been equipped with advanced skills for cultivating chemical-free holy basil in strict compliance with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) standards, thereby securing consistent income and an enhanced quality of life.

“The holy basil sourced from our farms serves as a primary ingredient in all CPF holy basil-based menus, including classic offerings such as Holy Basil Fried Rice available at 7-Eleven branches nationwide, health-oriented options like Soft Chicken Breast with Holy Basil, and innovative products such as Chicken Basil Rice Sausages, which recently secured a Winner award at the THAIFEX – Anuga Taste Innovation Show 2026,” stated Mr. Chaitawee. “Achieving such recognition demands exceptionally high and consistent standards. “Consequently, collaborated with us to systematically plan the cultivation process from its inception to ensure that every basil leaf is entirely chemical-free and aligns with GAP standards. Furthermore, CPF assisted in upgrading our processing facilities to attain GHP and HACCP certifications, which represent the highest benchmarks for food safety.”

Transitioning from Traditional Agriculture to “Space Food” Standards

A compelling aspect of this collaboration is CPF’s role as an authentic enabler, seamlessly integrating its extensive corporate expertise to support the SME:

Fostering Agricultural Sustainability: Collaboratively supporting over 100 smallholder farmers across six provinces to transition toward chemical-free holy basil cultivation in accordance with GAP standards. This initiative not only yields superior quality produce but also enhances the farmers’ health and provides a stable, reliable monthly income.
Zero-Waste Innovation: Mitigating waste from basil stems and flowers during the trimming process by promoting research and development. These byproducts are extracted into essential oils and flavorings, thereby maximizing the utilization and value of Thailand’s agricultural resources.
Advancing Toward the “Kitchen of the World”: Bolstered by technological support and rigorous quality control measures, the holy basil cultivated by Chai Charoen Fresh and its affiliated smallholder farmers has become an essential component in CPF’s globally exported culinary offerings. This includes attaining advanced safety standards equivalent to the dietary requirements of astronauts.

The Pride of a Thai SME on a Global Platform

The achievements of Chai Charoen Fresh and its agricultural network across six provinces serve as a definitive testament that Thai SMEs and smallholder farmers can attain global standards when provided with appropriate opportunities and targeted support. They demonstrate the capability to produce ingredients that satisfy the world’s most stringent safety criteria—achieving space-level safety.

“Our profound pride stems from witnessing holy basil cultivated by Thai farmers distributed on international shelves and receiving global accolades. This milestone was actualized because CPF believes in the potential of SMEs and remains committed to fostering sustainable, mutual growth,” Mr. Chaitawee concluded.

CPF and Its Mission in Empowering Partners

Currently, CPF remains steadfast in advancing the “Partner to Grow” initiative as a primary catalyst for identifying and elevating high-potential Thai SMEs. The program focuses on the transfer of technology, innovation, and international expertise to reduce operational costs, enhance product value, and unlock new market opportunities. This initiative acts as a vital mechanism in fortifying the Thai food industry, amplifying the nation’s competitive advantage on the global stage, and genuinely generating sustainable income for Thai communities and farmers.

#CPFPartnerStories #คู่ค้าเล่าเรื่อง #PartnerToGrow

Top 10 cities for luxury living costs in 2026 according:

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