Israeli embassy in Thailand warns citizens over tougher law enforcement crackdown in Phuket

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7 May 2026, 15:44

205 — The Israeli embassy in Thailand has warned its citizens in Phuket to strictly follow Thai laws after local authorities reportedly agreed to increase enforcement against foreigners on the island.

The Embassy of Israel in Thailand has warned Israeli citizens in Phuket to strictly comply with Thai laws after local authorities reportedly agreed to intensify enforcement measures targeting foreigners on the island.

In a public advisory addressed to Israeli nationals, the embassy said a discussion among Phuket provincial officials had resulted in plans for stricter enforcement against foreign residents and tourists.

“Please, for your own good, be sure to act according to the procedures and the laws of the place,” the embassy wrote in the notice.

According to the advisory, authorities have instructed all relevant agencies to adopt “aggressive enforcement” measures and strictly apply existing laws and regulations.

The embassy said foreigners who violate the law could face the harshest penalties allowed under Thai law as part of a deterrence campaign.

The notice also highlighted efforts to increase awareness among tourists regarding local rules and legal requirements, saying officials would place greater emphasis on explaining Thai laws to visitors.

In serious cases, authorities may coordinate with immigration officials to revoke visas or residence permits, the advisory added.

The embassy specifically warned Israeli citizens about traffic-related offences, particularly driving without valid licences.

It said authorities would adopt a “zero tolerance” approach, adding that offenders caught driving without licences would be prosecuted in court without exception.

The advisory did not specify what prompted the discussions among Phuket officials or whether the measures specifically targeted any nationality.

However, Phuket authorities have in recent years increased scrutiny of foreign-related offences amid growing concerns over illegal businesses, visa overstays, reckless driving, public disturbances and crimes involving tourists and expatriates.

Driving offences involving foreign tourists have also become a recurring issue in Phuket, particularly cases involving motorcycle rentals and visitors driving without valid international or Thai licences.

Under Thai law, foreigners driving motorcycles or cars without proper licences can face fines, legal prosecution and insurance complications in the event of accidents. Serious offences may also affect immigration status or future visa applications.

Ancient drums and skeletons found at Phetchaburi site

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 15:39

Ancient drums and skeletons found at Phetchaburi site

PHETCHABURI — 7 May 2026, Residents in Phetchaburi province gathered on Wednesday to make merit and honour prehistoric human remains discovered at the Don Yai Thong archaeological site after archaeologists unearthed eight ancient skeletons believed to be between 1,500 and 2,000 years old.

The ceremony was held at Don Yai Thong site in Ban Don Phlap village, Samo Phlue subdistrict, Ban Lat district, where local residents offered food to Buddhist monks and dedicated merit to the deceased whose remains were uncovered during excavations led by the Fine Arts Department.

Officials attending the event included Phetchaburi Provincial Administrative Organisation President Chaiya Angkinan, Ban Lat District Chief Preecha Ananworanat and Nipa Sangkhonakhin, director of Fine Arts Office 1 in Ratchaburi.

Archaeologists from Fine Arts Office 1, working with local authorities and residents, began excavations at the site after the discovery of two ancient bronze drums in February in the middle of a rice field.

The drums, known as “Mahorathuk” drums, are believed to originate from the Dong Son culture in northern Vietnam and later spread throughout the Suvarnabhumi region, including parts of present-day Thailand.

The nearest previous discovery of such drums was in Khu Bua in Ratchaburi province, while no similar drums had previously been found in Phetchaburi or Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces.

Excavations, led by archaeologist Kannika Premjai since 9 February 2026, have continued for nearly three months.

Initial excavations uncovered damaged fragments of bronze drums, pottery, bronze containers, human leg bones and gold jewellery, prompting archaeologists to expand the excavation area.

Between March and April, the team uncovered eight human skeletons laid flat on their backs in rows, with some overlapping each other.

Archaeologists found bronze head ornaments resembling helmets placed over the skulls of all eight skeletons, along with bronze artefacts, stone beads, glass beads and pottery.

The first skeleton discovered was accompanied by a large number of gold ornaments, including bracelets, rings, pendants, beads and earrings.

Four additional bronze drums were later uncovered, bringing the total number found at the site to six.

Archaeologists believe the discoveries represent prehistoric burial rituals dating back around 1,500 to 2,000 years, before cremation practices became common.

The presence of gold jewellery, bronze artefacts and bronze drums suggests the individuals buried at the site were members of a high-status social group rather than ordinary villagers.

Experts also noted that the intricate gold ornaments resembled Indian craftsmanship, indicating the community may have had trade connections with external civilisations.

Nipa thanked local residents, officials, educational institutions and the landowners for supporting the excavation work.

However, she warned that heavy moisture, underground water and the approaching rainy season were creating difficulties for archaeologists and threatening the preservation of the human remains, as water had begun seeping into the excavation pits from surrounding rice fields.

AIS launches Southeast Asia’s first 5G-Advanced network

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MC Marketing

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7 May 2026, 14:33

AIS, Thailand’s leader in intelligent digital infrastructure, today marked a significant milestone for the telecommunications industry with the launch of “AIS 5G-ADVANCED”, Southeast Asia’s first next-level 5G network standard. The launch elevates AIS’ 5G network to a new era of intelligent connectivity, powered by advanced capabilities such as Downlink 3CC and Uplink 2CC to deliver faster downloads, stronger uploads, lower responsiveness, and greater overall network efficiency. Built to support next-generation digital lifestyles and enterprise use cases, AIS 5G-ADVANCED also lays a strong foundation for the future transition toward 6G.

This advancement is driven by the integration of three core strengths: Partnership + AI + Innovation. By combining global partnerships, AI-powered network intelligence, and continuous network innovation, AIS is setting a new benchmark for “5G-ADVANCED” through 5G SA Carrier Aggregation technology across both 3CC and 2CC. This enables multiple frequency bands to work together seamlessly, with 3CC combining the 700 MHz, 2100 MHz, and 2600 MHz bands, and 2CC combining the 700 MHz and 2600 MHz bands, significantly enhancing network performance and delivering a clearly superior connectivity experience.

The technology increases download speeds by up to 1.5 times through 5G SA Downlink 2CC/3CC and upload speeds by up to 2 times through 5G SA Uplink 2CC. AIS is also integrating AI into network traffic management through an Autonomous Network, enabling the network to analyze, adapt, and respond efficiently to usage conditions in real time.

Currently, 5G SA Downlink 3CC is available in Sathon and Bang Rak, with plans to expand to key areas across Bangkok and its metropolitan region by 2026. Meanwhile, 5G SA Downlink 2CC is already available in Bangkok, the metropolitan region, and major city centers nationwide. 5G SA Uplink 2CC is also available in major city areas across the Northeastern region, Bangkok, and the metropolitan region, and is expected to be available in major city centers nationwide by 2026.

Mr. Wasit Wattanasap, Head of Nationwide Operations and Support Business Unit at AIS, said: “AIS’ key mission is to strengthen Thailand’s digital infrastructure, making it more robust, modern, and ready to support the continued growth of the digital economy. At the heart of this infrastructure is the mobile network, which serves as a vital artery of connectivity, linking people, businesses, industries, government agencies, and digital services together. Therefore, network development today is no longer only about increasing speed, signal coverage, or the number of base stations. It is about building new capabilities for the country and delivering the best digital experience to customers in every use case.

The launch of AIS 5G-ADVANCED marks another important step in AIS’ journey to transform 5G from a connectivity network into an intelligent digital platform that can help drive Thailand’s economy and society over the long term. This is achieved through the integration of three core strengths: Partnership, through collaboration with world-class device partners; AI, which enhances intelligent network management; and Innovation, through the continuous development of network technologies. Together, these form a key foundation for the Autonomous Network of the future.

The core of AIS 5G-ADVANCED lies in Carrier Aggregation technology, including both 2CC and 3CC, which combines multiple frequency bands to enhance performance across downloads, uploads, smoothness, stability, and network responsiveness. Whether customers are watching high-definition video, playing online games, livestreaming, uploading content, or working through the cloud, those in service areas with compatible devices will be able to experience a clearly enhanced level of connectivity.

Beyond speed and network performance, AIS also places strong emphasis on enhancing digital safety. We are applying AI to strengthen customer protection through AIS SAFE CONNECT, which can alert customers of suspicious numbers during calls, as well as through *1185# and the 1185 hotline, which work with the police to receive reports of suspicious phone numbers and SMS messages for further blocking. These initiatives help customers use digital services with greater confidence and peace of mind.

As a developer of Thailand’s digital infrastructure, AIS will continue to expand the capabilities of its network across speed, stability, security, and intelligence. Our goal is to support new digital services for consumers, businesses, and industries, while serving as a critical foundation for driving the digital economy and strengthening Thailand’s competitiveness in a sustainable way,” Mr. Wasit concluded.

For customers using “AIS 5G-ADVANCED”, the service can be identified by the 5G+ symbol shown at the upper-right corner of the mobile screen. This indicates that the customer is connected to an enhanced 5G network with improved speed, stability, and performance. Availability depends on service area, supported frequency bands, compatible devices, and appropriate packages. Customers who meet these conditions can access the enhanced 5G network experience without subscribing to an additional package.

This milestone in advancing Thailand into a new chapter of intelligent networks further reinforces AIS’ role as a national digital infrastructure provider, or National Digital Infrastructure, committed to elevating the digital experience for Thai people, businesses, and industries, and enabling the country to move confidently into the future.

For more information about AIS 5G-ADVANCED, please visit https://www.ais.th/about-us/network-technology/5g-for-consumer/superior-trusted-network

Fire reignites at popular Rangsit pub after blaze

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 14:08

Fire reignites at popular Rangsit pub after blaze

PATHUM THANI — 7 May 2026, Firefighters returned to battle a blaze at a popular pub in Rangsit on Wednesday morning after flames reignited inside the building, causing extensive damage throughout the venue.

Chayut Sinpoonphak, deputy mayor of Rangsit municipality, and municipal councillor Jamrat Chusuk led emergency crews and five fire engines to the entertainment venue in Khlong Nueng area along the Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok canal road in Prachathipat subdistrict, Thanyaburi district, after reports that the fire had broken out again.

Firefighters found flames and heavy smoke spreading from the ceiling on the second floor of the building. Crews sprayed water into the ceiling cavity, where soundproof foam panels had been installed, amid concerns that trapped heat could cause the fire to flare up again.

Authorities said the fire destroyed the interior of the entertainment venue.

Officials said the initial fire was first reported at around 4:50, with firefighters and officers from Pratunam Chulalongkorn police station arriving at the scene at approximately 5:00.

Large flames and thick smoke were found on the second floor, particularly in a storage room containing old chairs and other items belonging to the pub. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control later in the morning.

However, because the venue was an enclosed space fitted with soundproofing materials, residual heat caused the fire to reignite.

The pub had already closed for the night when the fire broke out and no injuries were reported.

Authorities said the extent of the damage had not yet been assessed. Municipal engineers will inspect the building structure to determine whether it remains safe following the fire.

What is Thailand’s Royal Ploughing Ceremony?

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 13:55

oxS__16515155_0 — Officials from Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives take part in the second full rehearsal for the Royal Ploughing Ceremony at Sanam Luang in Bangkok on Thursday ahead of the official rite on 11 May.

Thailand is preparing for the annual Royal Ploughing Ceremony, one of the kingdom’s oldest and most symbolic royal traditions linked to agriculture and the rice-growing season.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives on Thursday held the second full rehearsal for the ceremony at Sanam Luang ahead of the official rite on 11 May.

S 16515146 0 — Officials from Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives take part in the second full rehearsal for the Royal Ploughing Ceremony at Sanam Luang in Bangkok on Thursday ahead of the official rite on 11 May.

Winairoj Subsongsuk, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, performed the role of Phra Ya Raek Na, or Lord of the Plough, during the rehearsal.

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony, known in Thai as “Phuetcha Mongkhon,” dates back more than 700 years and marks the traditional beginning of the rice farming season in Thailand.

The ceremony is traditionally presided over by the King or a senior member of the royal family and combines both Buddhist and Brahmin rituals intended to bring prosperity, favourable rainfall and abundant harvests for farmers across the country.

S 16515118 0 — Officials from Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives take part in the second full rehearsal for the Royal Ploughing Ceremony at Sanam Luang in Bangkok on Thursday ahead of the official rite on 11 May.

One of the ceremony’s most closely watched moments involves sacred oxen pulling a plough around the ceremonial field while rice seeds are scattered onto the ground.

The oxen are later presented with symbolic foods and drinks, including rice, corn, grass, sesame seeds, water and alcohol. What the oxen choose to eat is traditionally interpreted as a prediction for the year’s agricultural conditions, rainfall and economic outlook.

Another symbolic stage involves the Lord of the Plough selecting one of three pieces of cloth of different lengths. The chosen cloth is believed to forecast the amount of rainfall expected during the coming farming season.

S 16515125 0 1 — Officials from Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives take part in the second full rehearsal for the Royal Ploughing Ceremony at Sanam Luang in Bangkok on Thursday ahead of the official rite on 11 May.

Large crowds usually gather at Sanam Luang to watch the ceremony and collect blessed rice seeds, which many believe bring prosperity and good fortune.

S 16515098 0 — Officials from Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives take part in the second full rehearsal for the Royal Ploughing Ceremony at Sanam Luang in Bangkok on Thursday ahead of the official rite on 11 May.

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day is observed as a public holiday in Thailand and remains an important cultural event reflecting the country’s deep historical connection to agriculture.

Flying out of Thailand? Get ready to pay a US$34 airport fee

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 13:08

Airports of Thailand has announced an increase in the international passenger service charge (PSC) to 1,120 baht, or about US$34.7 at the current exchange rate, effective from 20 June 2026 at all six airports under its management.

The new rate will apply only to departing international passengers using Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang International Airport, Chiang Mai International Airport, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport, Phuket International Airport and Hat Yai International Airport.

Domestic passenger service charges will remain unchanged at 130 baht per person in support of the government’s domestic tourism policy.

Pawina Jariyathitipong, president of AOT, said the adjustment followed approval by the Civil Aviation Board on 20 February 2026 and complied with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

She said the new PSC rate was based on principles including transparency, cost consistency, non-discrimination and stakeholder consultation.

Pawina stressed that the PSC was not a tax and was not intended for profit generation, but would be used solely for airport-related operations and infrastructure development.

According to AOT, revenue from the increased fee will support projects including the SAT-1 satellite terminal at Suvarnabhumi Airport, upgrades at Don Mueang Airport and the expansion of Common Use Passenger Processing Systems (CUPPS) aimed at reducing check-in waiting times and improving passenger experience.

The airport operator said surveys found that most passengers viewed the new PSC rate as reasonable and that it would not affect travel decisions. Airlines also supported the adjustment while urging AOT to continue improving service quality.

Pawina said the increase was intended to support long-term operational and investment costs, improve safety standards and strengthen Thailand’s ambition to become a regional aviation hub with globally competitive airports.

Anutin says no one-on-one talks with Hun Manet at ASEAN Summit

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 12:46

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Thursday sought to reassure the public ahead of his meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on the sidelines of the 48th ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, insisting there would be no bilateral discussions between the two leaders.

Speaking before departing from Wing 6 at Don Mueang military airport for Cebu, Philippines, where the summit is being held from 7-9 May, Anutin said Thailand would use the regional forum to present its position and inform ASEAN members about the situation and policies regarding Thailand’s handling of issues with Cambodia.

“We are not going there for sightseeing or simply to meet leaders out of courtesy,” Anutin said. “We are going there to work, negotiate and present Thailand’s position.”

Asked about the possibility of meeting Hun Manet, the Thai premier said the two leaders would inevitably meet during summit activities later in the day, but stressed that there would be no one-on-one bilateral talks.

“It will not be a two-person meeting,” he said, noting that the Philippines, as ASEAN chair, would likely arrange opportunities for leaders to meet in a multilateral setting.

Anutin urged the public not to be concerned, saying his government would continue to adhere to principles protecting Thailand’s sovereignty and national interests.

“Any discussion or negotiation must be beneficial to Thailand and must uphold Thai sovereignty above all else,” he said. “This must be in the interest of the Thai people. There is no need to worry.”

The remarks come amid heightened tensions between Thailand and Cambodia following disputes over maritime issues and Bangkok’s recent decision to cancel the 2001 memorandum of understanding with Cambodia.

Bangkok governor seeks to continue unfinished policies

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 11:21

Bangkok governor seeks to continue unfinished policies

BANGKOK — 7 May 2026, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said he intends to continue his work after residents acknowledged improvements in the capital’s administration during his four-year term, although he admitted the city’s performance was “not yet 100%”.

Speaking on Wednesday at Bangkok City Hall during the final executive meeting of his administration’s term, Chadchart thanked officials and staff for their dedication throughout the past four years.

The meeting was attended by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) executives, Permanent Secretary Narong Ruangsri, directors from all 50 district offices, senior officials and related staff.

“This is the final meeting of this administration. Thank you for working together. I have been very happy,” Chadchart told the meeting.

“I believe Bangkok has many capable people who work very well. Over the past four years, I have not been biased, but the public has told us that our work has improved. Many of our achievements have addressed people’s needs, but they are still not 100%, so we must continue.”

Chadchart gave himself a performance rating of five out of 10, while awarding his team eight out of 10, thanking them for their consistent efforts and urging officials not to lower their guard during the transition period.

He said the city’s homelessness situation had improved through projects such as the “Im Jai House” shelter programme, which still had capacity to accept more people, especially as economic conditions remained difficult.

He also warned officials to maintain existing regulations on street vendors during the administrative transition, saying some traders might attempt to exploit loopholes while awaiting a new administration.

With the rainy season approaching, Chadchart instructed agencies to review flood prevention measures and closely inspect construction projects that could worsen flooding, including Orange Line rail works along Ratchadamnoen Road and projects near Banthat Thong Road.

He said flooding had already occurred at 12 locations across Bangkok and stressed the need for preventive measures, including accelerated drainage and canal dredging during periods of heavy rainfall.

The governor also ordered the Drainage and Sewerage Department to speed up delayed construction projects, particularly the Thonburi wastewater collection and treatment system, saying residents had been heavily affected.

On foreign birth registrations, Chadchart urged district offices to tighten oversight and review whether registration procedures were sufficiently strict, especially in districts recording unusually high numbers of registrations.

Ahead of upcoming elections, Chadchart instructed all officials to remain politically neutral.

“We must build public confidence in the elections as much as possible,” he said. “Whether it is the Bangkok governor election or council elections, everything must be handled equally. We must maintain neutrality and avoid favouritism.”

Arsenic testing begins for communities along Salween River in Mae Hong Son

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 10:24

MAE HONG SON — Health officials have begun urine testing for arsenic exposure among residents living along the Salween River in Mae Hong Son province after concerns over contamination in the waterway.

The health screening follows growing concern over arsenic contamination in the Salween River after researchers from Chiang Mai University reported in late 2025 that arsenic levels in parts of the river were as much as five times higher than Thai safety standards.

Authorities later expanded monitoring across Mae Hong Son province, with the Pollution Control Department finding arsenic contamination above standards at all 13 sampling points tested along the river.

Officials from the Department of Disease Control, together with local public health offices and hospitals, conducted urine tests on residents of Sob Moei and Mae Sariang districts bordering the Salween River on 6 May to screen for potential health risks linked to arsenic contamination.

Mr. Phongphipat Meebenjamat, chief executive of the Mae Sam Laep Subdistrict Administrative Organisation in Sob Moei District, said agencies involved included the Office of Disease Prevention and Control Region 1 in Chiang Mai, the Department of Disease Control’s occupational and environmental disease divisions, Sob Moei Hospital, local health promotion hospitals, the Mae Sam Laep local administration, and Salween River monitoring volunteers.

The screening operation was carried out at the Salween Building of the Mae Sam Laep Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and focused on residents from Ban Tha Ta Fang, Ban Mae Sam Laep, and Ban Sob Moei villages.

Officials collected medical histories and urine samples from 99 residents, which will be analysed in a laboratory. However, due to budget limitations and the high cost of testing, authorities said they were unable to screen all villagers in the affected communities.

Test results are expected within three months.

Mr. Phongphipat said residents in both Mae Sariang District and Sob Moei District, who have long relied on the Salween River for daily use and consumption, remain deeply concerned about contamination in the river and its psychological impact on local communities.

Environmental researchers have increasingly warned that unregulated mining activity in Myanmar’s border regions is affecting major river systems flowing into Thailand, raising concerns about long-term health risks for communities dependent on rivers for drinking water, fishing, and agriculture.

Ao Nang fire shows resume after Phi Phi park easing rules

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 10:12

Ao Nang fire shows resume after Phi Phi park easing rules

KRABI — 6 May 2026, Tourists flocked to Ao Nang beach on Phi Phi island in Krabi after authorities relaxed restrictions on fire-twirling performances along the shoreline.

The atmosphere at Ao Nang beach became lively again after the Protected Area Committee (PAC) approved the return of fire shows under strict regulations.

Large numbers of Thai and foreign tourists gathered along the beachfront from dusk to watch the performances. Flames spun skilfully through the air drew loud applause and excitement from crowds lining the beach, helping revive the local night-time economy and tourism sector.

The performances had previously been banned by Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park because they were deemed illegal.

One of the most popular performance spots featured a disabled local performer and his team. Sarawut Bilmat, also known as “Nong Bao”, expressed his gratitude to Krabi provincial authorities, national park officials, the PAC and the provincial Social Development and Human Security Office for helping restore the performances.

“We can clearly see tonight that Ao Nang beach has come back to life after being quiet for some time without the fire shows,” he said.

Sarawut said his team would perform for around 40 minutes each evening, approximately from 18:40 to 19:20, before cleaning the area in accordance with national park regulations.

The easing of restrictions followed discussions between local operators and Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park to find a compromise. Authorities introduced guidelines covering zoning and designated performance areas to minimise impacts on the environment and other beachgoers.

All performers must register with the national park authorities and comply with safety measures, including the use of protective equipment and precautions to prevent sparks or oil stains from contaminating the sand.

The return of the fire shows is seen as restoring livelihoods for local performers, including the disabled entertainer, while also strengthening Krabi’s tourism image through cultural “soft power” attractions.

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