A royal bond across centuries: Thai King and Queen in Sweden

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4 May 2026, 13:34

The official visit of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand to Sweden has drawn attention as a moment underscoring more than a century of close ties between the two kingdoms, blending royal tradition with modern diplomacy.

The visit was made at the invitation of King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden to attend celebrations marking the Swedish monarch’s 80th birthday. Beyond its ceremonial significance, the occasion highlighted longstanding relations between the Thai and Swedish royal families, widely regarded as a cornerstone of bilateral ties.

Sole Asian royal presence

The Thai monarchy stood out as the only royal household from Asia attending the high-profile celebrations, which brought together European royals and heads of state. The presence reflected the depth of relations between the two countries, forged through decades of exchanges at the highest level.

Upon arrival in Stockholm, Their Majesties were received by Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden at the aircraft stairs, a gesture seen as one of the highest forms of royal courtesy under protocol.

During official ceremonies, including a thanksgiving service and the changing of the royal guards, the Thai King and Queen were accorded prominent positions alongside the Swedish monarch and queen. They also joined a group photograph with members of royal families and dignitaries attending the celebrations.

Royal message of goodwill

On the occasion, the King of Thailand extended a message of congratulations to King Carl XVI Gustaf, expressing best wishes for the Swedish monarch’s health and happiness, as well as for the continued peace and prosperity of Sweden.

The message also reaffirmed Thailand’s pride in the long-standing friendship between the two kingdoms and confidence that bilateral relations would continue to deepen, both directly and within broader frameworks such as ASEAN–EU cooperation.

A friendship spanning more than a century

Formal relations between Thailand and Sweden date back to 1868. King Chulalongkorn later visited Sweden in 1897, marking a milestone in bilateral ties.

One enduring symbol of that relationship is the Thai pavilion in Ragunda, northern Sweden, built to commemorate the visit and still maintained today as a cultural landmark.

Over the past 150 years, the Chakri and Bernadotte dynasties have continued to exchange royal visits, reinforcing mutual respect and cooperation.

The latest visit is seen as a continuation of that legacy, linking a shared historical foundation with contemporary engagement, as both countries seek to advance cooperation for the benefit of their peoples.

Wife of 23 years dumped for monk in shocking affair claim

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4 May 2026, 13:06

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, 4 May 2026 — A woman from Prachin Buri has come forward with allegations that her husband of 23 years left her after engaging in a relationship with a Buddhist monk, in a case that has sparked widespread debate online.

The story first surfaced on a Facebook page, which claimed the woman was left shocked after discovering the alleged relationship. The post said she was also asked to accept a three-person relationship, prompting her to leave home with just 6,000 baht to start a new life.

The allegations quickly drew strong reactions from social media users, with many criticising the conduct of both the man and the monk, saying it could constitute a serious breach of monastic discipline.

Reporters visited a temple in Nakhon Ratchasima on Monday to verify the claims. A monk there said he had only briefly seen the individual mentioned, describing him as reclusive and rarely interacting with others. He added that the monk had not been seen at the temple recently and confirmed he was not affiliated with the temple.

The Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Office of Buddhism later identified the monk as Phra Phonchai, around 30 years old, who was ordained in 2024 at a temple in Phra Thong Kham district.

Officials said he is currently registered at a temple in Det Udom district, Ubon Ratchathani province, and had previously studied Buddhist scriptures at Wat Bueng Phra Aram Luang in July 2025, but was not formally affiliated with the temple.

Authorities said they were unaware of his personal conduct and could not confirm the allegations. They added that coordination with relevant offices in Ubon Ratchathani was under way to establish the facts and take appropriate action.

In a separate statement, Wat Bueng Phra Aram Luang clarified that the monk mentioned in reports was not part of its clergy, but had only temporarily stayed to study and had left the temple in October 2025.

The temple stressed that any alleged behaviour was a personal matter and not connected to the institution, urging the public to await verification by relevant authorities.

The case continues to draw attention, with questions raised over its potential impact on public confidence in the Buddhist clergy.

Thailand welcomes Aung San Suu Kyi’s move to house arrest, backs gradual ASEAN engagement

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4 May 2026, 12:47

Netherlands Myanmar — Myanmar's leader Aung San Suu Kyi addresses judges of the International Court of Justice for the second day of three days of hearings in The Hague, Netherlands, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2019. Aung San Suu Kyi will represent Myanmar in a case filed by Gambia at the ICJ, the United Nations' highest court, accusing Myanmar of genocide in its campaign against the Rohingya Muslim minority. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

BANGKOK — The Thai government has welcomed Myanmar’s decision to move detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi to house arrest, describing it as a positive development and reaffirming support for gradual engagement between ASEAN and Myanmar.

Government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek said the move reflected progress and that Thailand was ready to promote “appropriate and step-by-step interaction” within the regional bloc to support peace and reconciliation efforts in Myanmar.

Ratchada also referred to a recent visit to Myanmar by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, who met Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing on 22 April. She said discussions were positive, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties, border security and preparations to reopen the Mae Sot–Myawaddy crossing.

During the meeting, the Myanmar leader reportedly provided an update on Aung San Suu Kyi’s condition, saying she remained in good health and that further positive measures could follow.

Thailand’s Foreign Ministry outlined two key points in response to recent developments in Myanmar. First, it welcomed the release of detainees, including former president Win Myint, during the Myanmar New Year period, and expressed support for continued efforts by the Myanmar government to engage all stakeholders towards lasting peace and national reconciliation.

Second, Thailand welcomed Myanmar’s commitment to advancing the peace process, including invitations to armed groups to join negotiations aimed at restoring peace and stability. Thailand said it stood ready to support such efforts.

The spokesperson added that Myanmar had indicated it would continue working with Thailand and ASEAN to deliver humanitarian assistance to those in need.

“Thailand continues to closely monitor the situation in Myanmar, pursuing a policy of appropriate and gradual engagement to support peace, stability and sustainable development through cooperation with all parties and within the ASEAN framework, for the benefit of the Myanmar people and regional stability,” Ratchada said.

Four heirs donate 107,000 sq m of prime land worth 1bn baht for Warin Chamrap hospital expansion

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4 May 2026, 12:30

UBON RATCHATHANI — Four heirs of the Smitthaman family have pledged to donate nearly 67 rai (about 107,000 square metres) of land in central Warin Chamrap, valued at around 1 billion baht, to support the expansion of medical services at Warin Chamrap Hospital.

According to a Facebook post by Warin Chamrap Hospital, the hospital’s director, Piyawat Angkawanich, along with executives, doctors, nurses and staff, formally received a letter of intent for the land donation on 27 April.

The land, measuring approximately 66 rai, 3 ngan and 7.4 square wah (around 107,000 sq m), is located in Kham Nam Saep subdistrict. It is being donated by the heirs of the late Lt. Pin Smitthaman and Mrs. Wichian Smitthaman — namely Prapit, Narumon, Laddawan and Kannika Smitthaman.

The donated plot will be used for medical purposes, including the development of a new medical centre aimed at supporting growing demand for healthcare services in the area.

Piyawat, speaking on behalf of the hospital and local residents, expressed gratitude for what he described as a significant act of generosity by the Smitthaman family. He said the land would serve as a key foundation for easing congestion at existing facilities and enhancing the hospital’s capacity to provide more comprehensive and efficient care.

The plot is situated in a central area of Warin Chamrap district and is considered highly valuable due to its location, with an estimated worth of around 1 billion baht.

Riverside home collapses into Bang Pakong River

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3 May 2026, 18:01

Riverside home collapses into Bang Pakong River

CHACHOENGSAO — 3 May 2026, A house and motorcycle repair shop collapsed into the Bang Pakong River after a riverside embankment gave way near a temple, with the dramatic incident captured on video by local residents.

The collapse occurred at about 15:20 on 3 May in front of Wat Saichon Na Rangsi (Wat Laem Bon) in Ban Mai subdistrict, Muang district, rescue officials said.

Rescue workers arriving at the scene found the property, registered as house No. 41 Moo 2, belonging to 63-year-old Witoon Luechaithirakul, had fallen into the river. The owner stood nearby as neighbours tried to salvage valuables from the home and adjacent motorcycle repair shop before the collapse.

Witoon said no one was inside the buildings at the time. He reported hearing loud cracking sounds from the concrete before seeing the ground split apart. He attempted to retrieve belongings but the collapse happened too quickly.

The concrete embankment in front of the temple then gave way, sending a section more than 30 metres long into the river.

Witoon believes heavy rainfall in recent days may have weakened the soil beneath the structure, causing it to subside.

Phra Maha Winai Kittipanyo, the temple’s abbot, said the embankment had stood for many years without issue. However, the concrete area where the collapse occurred had been built over previously filled land along the riverbank, which may have become unstable.

He said the ground may have shifted and pushed against the ageing embankment, leading to the collapse. The full extent of the damage has yet to be assessed.

Officials warned further subsidence is possible, particularly as river levels rise. Authorities are coordinating with local agencies to inspect the site and secure the area to prevent further danger.

Thailand waives expressway tolls for Coronation Day

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3 May 2026, 17:36

Thailand waives expressway tolls for Coronation Day

BANGKOK — 3 May 2026, Thailand will waive toll fees on three major expressways on 4 May to mark Coronation Day, covering 63 toll plazas nationwide, the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) said.

The toll exemption will be in effect from 00:01 to 24:00 on Monday and applies to the following routes:

Chalerm Maha Nakhon Expressway (Din Daeng–Bang Na–Dao Khanong), 21 toll plazas
Si Rat Expressway (Chaeng Watthana–Bang Khlo–Srinakarin), 32 toll plazas
Udon Ratthaya Expressway (Bang Pa-in–Pak Kret), 10 toll plazas

EXAT said the measure follows government and Transport Ministry policy under revised concession agreements with Bangkok Expressway and Metro Plc (BEM) and the Northern Bangkok Expressway Co (NECL).

The move is intended to ease travel during the public holiday, reduce costs for motorists and help alleviate congestion at toll booths, officials said.

Ex-cop shoots son dead amid knife threat at home

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3 May 2026, 16:36

Ex-cop shoots son dead amid knife threat at home

NAKHON SAWAN — 3 May 2026, A retired police officer shot and killed his son at their home after a violent dispute in which the son allegedly threatened family members with a knife, police said.

The incident occurred on 2 May in Ban Takrut Phiban village, Phai Sali district. Officers responding to reports of gunfire found the body of Natthaphon, 38, with seven gunshot wounds to the torso and arm. A short knife was still in his right hand. Eight 9mm shell casings were recovered at the scene.

The suspected gunman, a 64-year-old retired police captain whose name was withheld, surrendered at the scene and admitted the victim was his son. He handed over a 9mm pistol, previously his service weapon, to forensic officers.

Witnesses told police they heard a heated argument followed by a burst of gunfire. A relative was seen running from the house in distress, saying the son had been shot.

Duty officer Capt. Apirak Khongthai said the suspect himself called police after the shooting and did not attempt to flee. Investigators said the victim had a history of drug use and prior arrests.

On the day of the incident, the son reportedly demanded money from his mother and became enraged when refused. He allegedly tried to attack family members with a knife and attempted to take his father’s gun, prompting the father to open fire.

“If I hadn’t done it, he would have killed me,” the suspect told police, according to investigators.

Neighbours said the retired officer, who left service about two years ago, was generally calm but his son frequently caused disturbances when denied money.

Police have detained the suspect for further questioning and initially charged him with murder. Authorities said the firearm was legally registered and kept at the home. The case remains under investigation.

Thailand repatriates 55 Cambodian workers via border

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3 May 2026, 15:28

SA KAEO — 3 May 2026, Thai authorities repatriated 55 Cambodian migrant workers through the Khlong Luek border checkpoint after their legal cases were concluded, officials said.

The Burapha Task Force, led by the Aranyaprathet special unit, coordinated with Border Patrol Company 1201 and multiple agencies, including Region 1 Operations Centre, Sa Kaeo Immigration, Aranyaprathet Customs and international disease control officers, to oversee the process.

Those returned included 34 men, 19 women and two boys. According to police, all had been arrested and processed under Thai law before being deported in accordance with legal procedures.

The handover took place at the Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge at the permanent border crossing in Ban Khlong Luek, Aranyaprathet district, under strict supervision and inter-agency coordination.

Officials said the operation proceeded smoothly with no incidents reported.

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Mayon Volcano unrest forces mass evacuations in Albay, Phillippines

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3 May 2026, 14:27

ALBAY, PHILIPPINES — 3 May 2026, Thousands evacuated after Mayon Volcano erupts, authorities warn of lava and landslides

Thousands of residents in Albay province, southeast of Manila, have been evacuated after renewed activity at Mayon Volcano sent ash plumes into the sky and blanketed nearby communities.

thousandsevacuatedasMayonVolcanoerupts 04 — Mayon volcano spews ash as seen from Camalig, Albay province, Philippines on Saturday 2 May 2026. The Philippines said on 3 May that thousands of people have evacuated the area south of Manila after Mayon Volcano erupted, and the authorities advised the public to stay out of the 6km radius danger zone. (Christian Añonuevo Lorilla via AP)

Authorities have raised Alert Level 3 on a five-level scale and warned residents to remain outside a 6 km danger zone due to the risk of lava flows, landslides, and further eruptions.

The volcano, known for its near-perfect cone shape and standing about 2,462 metres tall, is experiencing strombolian eruptions — moderate bursts that eject lava, gas, and volcanic debris intermittently.

thousandsevacuatedasMayonVolcanoerupts 05 — Mayon volcano spews ash as seen from Daraga, Albay province, Philippines on Saturday, 2 May 2026. The volcanology institute issued Alert Level 3 in its five-step scale as it reported “strombolian activity and short-lived lava fountaining” from one of the South-east Asian nation’s most active volcanoes. It warned of landslides and lava flows. (AP Photo/Nehemiah Manzanilla Sitiar)

More than 5,000 people are now staying in evacuation centres, as heavy ashfall disrupts transport and reduces visibility across affected areas.

Officials said the volcano is exhibiting strombolian activity, with intermittent bursts of lava, gas, and volcanic debris. Mayon, one of the Philippines’ most active volcanoes, has been showing heightened unrest since earlier this year.

Mayon is one of the Philippines’ most active volcanoes and a major tourist attraction, but authorities warn the situation remains volatile.

thousandsevacuatedasMayonVolcanoerupts 03 — (AP Photo/Nehemiah Manzanilla Sitiar)

Karen army claim killing of 60 Myanmar troops

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3 May 2026, 14:18

Karen army claim killing of 60 Myanmar troops

MAE HONG SON — 3 May 2026, The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) has claimed it killed more than 60 Myanmar junta troops since April, as fighting intensifies near the Thai-Myanmar border, according to a statement by the Karen National Union (KNU).

The KNU said its forces had killed over 60 government soldiers since early April. In the past week alone, it reported 26 killed and 35 wounded, with several troops captured during clashes in Hpapun township in Karen state, opposite Mae Sariang district in Thailand’s Mae Hong Son province.

The statement added that between 15 and 22 March, there were nine clashes between junta forces and the KNLA’s Brigade 5.

Residents in Mae Sam Laep village in Sop Moei district said they heard explosions and gunfire from across the border in Myanmar late on 3 May, suggesting fresh clashes. The fighting is believed to involve KNLA forces and Myanmar troops, who may have been deployed as reinforcements but were ambushed, according to local reports.

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