Thailand backs royal-led development plan expansion

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25 April 2026, 15:19

Thailand backs royal-led development plan expansion

BANGKOK — 25 April 2026, Thailand has approved a fifth-phase action plan to expand royal initiative-led development projects to 32 provinces nationwide, aiming to strengthen self-reliance and sustainability, officials said.

Mr. Grisada Boonrach, Chairman of the chairman of the Royal Initiative Discovery Institute, under the Royal Initiative Discovery Foundation, said the board endorsed the 2028–2032 plan at its annual meeting on 24 April, focusing on integrating efforts across sectors to improve livelihoods based on the sufficiency economy philosophy.

The foundation will continue its mission to “preserve, build upon and extend” royal initiatives under the guiding principles of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, drawing on the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s development concepts.

From October 2025 to March 2026, projects worth more than 416 million baht were implemented across water resource management, agriculture and environmental sectors.

Water development remains central, with surveys covering 1,911 water sources in 21 provinces and 136 rehabilitation projects in the Mun River basin expected to benefit more than 36,000 rai of farmland.

Agricultural programmes have focused on boosting productivity, including export-grade durian in the southern border provinces, safe vegetable farming in the northeast and the use of smart agriculture technology for crops such as coconuts in Khon Kaen and limes in Nan.

The foundation is also advancing “centenary village” projects in 10 communities across eight provinces as models for sustainable self-sufficiency, alongside initiatives to strengthen household food security.

Under the fifth-phase plan, operations will expand from 22 to 32 provinces, with a target of rehabilitating 150 small-scale water sources annually, totalling 750 over five years.

The strategy includes four pillars: development promotion, the establishment of 50 co-learning centres, proactive public communication and organisational upgrades through digital systems.

The plan also aims to enhance 10 key agricultural products, including organic durian, robusta coffee and high-quality rice, to generate stable income for farmers.

Krisada said the initiative would move beyond pilot areas to broaden its impact nationwide, embedding royal development principles into everyday life.

The five-year plan is expected to require a budget of about 1.57 billion baht, funded through a combination of state allocations, foundation resources and private sector cooperation.

Ex-husband opens fire on car, injures former wife and man

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Khaosod English

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25 April 2026, 15:15

Ex-husband opens fire on car, injures former wife and man

SURAT THANI — 24 April 2026, A man opened fire on a car carrying his former wife and another man in southern Thailand, injuring both before fleeing, police said.

Investigators said the victims, identified as 35-year-old Phatsakorn Thongphat and 37-year-old Apiradee Limsuwan, arrived at Surat Thani Hospital with gunshot wounds late on Friday.

According to police, the pair had been travelling in a Honda car from a residential area in Khao Tha Phet towards the city centre along the Surat Thani–Na San road when they were intercepted in Makham Tia subdistrict.

A suspect, identified as 39-year-old Anusorn, Apiradee’s former husband, allegedly drove alongside their vehicle and fired multiple shots from an unknown firearm.

Phatsakorn, who was driving, was hit in the right side of his torso, while Apiradee sustained a gunshot wound beneath her chin. The attacker fled the scene.

The victims drove themselves to hospital, where they remain under treatment.

Police said forensic officers and investigators are examining the scene and reviewing nearby CCTV footage to trace the suspect’s escape route. Authorities are seeking a warrant for his arrest.

After last year’s fighting with Thailand, Cambodia readies new conscription law for men aged 18-25

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Associated Press

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25 April 2026, 14:50

After last year's fighting with Thailand, Cambodia readies new conscription law for men aged 18-25

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) — A law requiring Cambodian males aged 18 to 25 to serve in the military for two years has gained Cabinet approval following two spates of deadly combat last year with neighboring Thailand.

The new draft law on conscription will replace an existing law dating from 2006 that was never implemented and no longer addresses current and future needs, a government spokesperson said Friday.

The existing law specified 30 as the maximum call-up age. Women will be allowed to serve on a voluntary basis.

Spokesperson Pen Bona said the draft law, with eight chapters and 20 articles, was adopted by the Cabinet at its meeting on Thursday.

Fighting between Cambodia and Thailand flared twice last year over contending claims to territory along their shared border.

Hundreds of thousands of people in both countries were displaced and about 100 Cambodian soldiers and civilians lost their lives. There has been no new fighting since a December ceasefire, though tensions remain high.

A government statement described military service as an essential duty and a great honor allowing the Cambodian people to contribute to national development and defend the motherland.

Prime Minister Hun Manet said in July last year when relations with Thailand were deteriorating that Cambodia would implement conscription this year. He said that soldiers joining through conscription are more effective and professional than a voluntary force, and that conscription will be used to fill shortages and upgrade military capabilities.

The legislation will be sent to the National Assembly and the Senate for approval, and become law once King Norodom Sihamoni signs it.

Police expose scam gang route at border sugarcane fields

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Khaosod English

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25 April 2026, 14:04

Police expose scam gang route at border sugarcane fields

SA KAEO — 25 April 2026, Police and soldiers have identified a sugarcane field near the Thai-Cambodian border as a key route used by call-centre scam gangs to traffic victims across the frontier, officials said.

Officers from Provincial Police Region 2, supported by the Burapha Task Force, led a rescued victim, a director of a boys’ love television series, and an associate to point out locations in Phan Suek subdistrict of Aranyaprathet district where they were allegedly taken across the border.

Authorities said the victims had been lured with offers of work and investment training before being smuggled into Cambodia and forced to work as scammers in the border city of Poipet. They were recently released.

The area, largely made up of farmland, allows easy crossing on foot, particularly in the dry season when there are no natural water barriers. Officials said traffickers frequently use such natural routes through Phan Suek and nearby Khlong Nam Sai subdistrict to move Thai nationals out of the country illegally.

Maj. Gen. Thitiwat Suriyachai, deputy commander of Provincial Police Region 2, said Thais continue to be deceived into taking jobs in neighbouring countries, with local guides often used to escort victims across informal crossings.

He said authorities have intelligence on the network involved and will step up patrols and border controls.

Investigators also believe the operation extends beyond a previously identified network leader known as “Mr Moo” and may involve former local officials suspected of facilitating the crossings. The individuals have been suspended pending investigation.

Officials warned the public to be cautious of job offers near border areas, particularly those promising high pay or requiring pre-employment training, as they may be linked to human trafficking or scam operations.

Bangkok installs barriers to stop motorbikes on pavements

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Khaosod English

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25 April 2026, 13:44

Bangkok installs barriers to stop motorbikes on pavements

BANGKOK — 24 April 2026, Bangkok authorities have installed metal barriers on pavements in Khlong Toei district to prevent motorcycles from driving on footpaths, following repeated public complaints.

Sittichai Aranyaganon, assistant secretary to the Bangkok governor, inspected the site at the intersection of Rama IV and Sukhumvit roads (Phra Khanong junction), an area known for frequent violations.

He said the problem stems from distant U-turn points, closely spaced side streets and narrow roads, compounded by large vehicles often occupying all lanes, making it difficult for motorcycles to pass and prompting some riders to mount the pavement.

The Khlong Toei district office has installed “S-Guard” steel posts along the pavement, which officials say have proven effective. Authorities consulted road users before installation, as the area is near a BTS Skytrain station and heavily used by both Thai residents and foreign visitors.

“We want all road users, especially motorcyclists, to respect traffic rules,” Sittichai said.

Local residents and shopkeepers reported noticeable improvements, saying the barriers have reduced danger and noise.

One regular pedestrian said she previously felt unsafe walking with headphones, as motorcycles approaching from behind could not be heard. Since the installation, she said, she feels more secure.

Residents added that the design allows access for other users, including wheelchair users, cyclists and travellers with luggage, while effectively blocking motorcycles.

From drug raid to defrocked, monk arrested after failed escape

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Khaosod English

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25 April 2026, 13:11

From drug raid to defrocked, monk arrested after failed escape

NAKHON SI THAMMARAT — 24 April 2026, A monk at a well-known temple in southern Thailand was arrested after authorities found methamphetamine pills and crystal meth hidden in his shoulder bag, officials said.

Noppitam district chief Apiwat Meethum said local officials received reports on the evening of 24 April that a monk at a temple in Noppitam subdistrict, known as Wat Rong Lek, was involved with illegal drugs.

When officers arrived to investigate, the monk attempted to flee through the rear of his quarters but was chased and detained. He was later identified as Phra Phanuphat, also known as “Ob”.

A search of his quarters uncovered 388 methamphetamine tablets and 0.03 grammes of crystal meth concealed in a monk’s bag, along with drug paraphernalia. The suspect admitted the items belonged to him.

Authorities had the monk defrocked before taking him in for questioning. A urine test returned positive for drug use, and he admitted to taking three meth pills prior to his arrest.

He has been charged with possession of a Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine) with intent to sell without permission. Police said he confessed to all charges and was handed over to investigators at Noppitam police station for legal proceedings.

Thailand to push one trillion baht land bridge plan to Cabinet

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Khaosod English

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25 April 2026, 11:37

Thailand to push one trillion baht land bridge plan to Cabinet

BANGKOK — 25 April 2026, Thailand’s transport minister said he plans to submit a proposed “land bridge” megaproject to the Cabinet in June, aiming to capitalise on potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz while insisting the state will not fund the scheme.

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the project, estimated at around 1 trillion baht, would link ports on the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, creating a transshipment route between the Indian and Pacific oceans.

He said the plan aligns with earlier remarks by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul that the project should proceed, citing possible future instability in the Strait of Hormuz as an opportunity for Thailand.

Responding to criticism that transferring cargo between ports would increase shipping times, Phiphat said more than 90% of global container shipping involves transshipment rather than direct end-to-end delivery.

“If cargo is transferred at Thailand’s ports, it would also have to be transferred elsewhere, such as in Singapore,” he said, adding that Thailand is seeking to attract more transshipment traffic.

Phiphat said feasibility studies by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning have been completed, and he will conduct a site visit in May. The project is expected to be opened to bidding for both domestic and foreign investors, with equal opportunities.

Construction could begin later this year, pending Cabinet approval, which he expects to seek between June and July.

He stressed that the government would not directly invest in the project but would grant land concessions to private investors.

Environmental and health impact assessments will be required, he said, acknowledging local concerns. Authorities will engage with communities to address opposition and clarify information, which he suggested may be influenced by activist groups.

Phiphat said the government aims to open the project for investment in the third quarter of 2026.

Drunk woman sits in road, narrowly avoids traffic hits

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Khaosod English

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25 April 2026, 11:30

Drunk woman sits in road, narrowly avoids traffic hits

CHIANGMAI — 25 April 2026, A drunken woman sat in the middle of a road in San Kamphaeng district early on Saturday, forcing several vehicles to swerve abruptly and narrowly avoid hitting her, authorities said.

A patrol unit from a local rescue team responded to reports that a woman was attempting to get herself struck by traffic on the San Pa Kha–Bo Sang road.

At the scene, the woman was found intoxicated and sitting in the roadway, creating a dangerous situation for passing motorists. Several vehicles were seen taking sudden evasive action to avoid a collision.

Rescue workers and police officers worked together to calm the woman before safely escorting her off the road to a secure area to prevent potential harm.

Thailand blacklists 86 foreigners in smuggling crackdown

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Khaosod English

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25 April 2026, 11:01

Thailand blacklists 86 foreigners in smuggling crackdown

BANGKOK — 25 April 2026, Thai police and customs authorities have stepped up a joint crackdown on cross-border smuggling of cash, gold and cannabis buds, blacklisting 86 foreign nationals to prevent repeat offences, a senior police official said.

Pol. Gen. Nirandorn Lueamsri, deputy national police chief, said the Royal Thai Police and the Customs Department had integrated their databases and adopted more proactive measures to curb illicit imports and exports that undermine state revenue and national security.

Under Thai customs law, smuggling prohibited goods, including narcotics and items affecting financial stability such as currency and gold, carries criminal penalties, including imprisonment and fines. However, unlike most criminal cases, offenders can settle cases without police investigation if they agree to pay a fine set by the customs chief or a comparison committee. For seized goods valued above 400,000 baht, settlement requires approval by the committee.

Nirandorn said the committee, comprising Customs Director-General Phanthong Loykulnanta, a senior Finance Ministry inspector and himself, meets თითქმის monthly and has handled numerous cases involving Thai and foreign offenders.

Authorities have found frequent attempts to move large sums of Thai currency and gold out of the country without declaration, sometimes worth millions of baht per case, raising concerns about capital flight and possible links to overseas money laundering.

Cash smuggling is often detected at border checkpoints near casino areas, typically involving nationals from neighbouring ASEAN countries, while gold smuggling is more commonly intercepted at airports, often involving South Asian nationals. Many offenders have extensive travel histories, with some entering and leaving Thailand dozens of times, and some are repeat offenders.

In recent cases, foreign nationals have also been caught attempting to export cannabis buds without authorisation, often destined for European countries. The product remains a controlled herb under Thai regulations and is illegal in many destination countries.

Because many offenders opt to settle cases by paying fines, some have been able to re-enter Thailand and reoffend. To address this, police and customs have begun sharing offender data with the Immigration Bureau to enhance monitoring and enforcement.

Foreign offenders identified in the database are being placed on an immigration blacklist, barring re-entry to Thailand, while Thai nationals are placed on a watchlist and subject to stricter screening when travelling.

So far, authorities have compiled records on 114 individuals, 86 foreigners and 28 Thais, with all foreign nationals meeting the criteria for blacklisting, Nirandorn said.

He urged travellers to familiarise themselves with customs regulations on prohibited and declarable items to avoid legal penalties and inclusion on immigration watchlists.

Officials said the data integration marks a significant step in strengthening enforcement and comes amid broader global economic pressures and regional instability.

Motorbike crosses median, crashes into truck; one dead

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Khaosod English

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25 April 2026, 10:31

Motorbike crosses median, crashes into truck; one dead

CHONBURI — 24 April 2026, A motorcyclist was killed and a pillion passenger seriously injured after the bike lost control, crossed a central reservation and slammed into a truck on Road 344, police said.

Dashcam footage captured the moment the motorcycle veered from the opposite carriageway, skidded across the median and collided with a light cargo vehicle equipped with a front camera.

Police and rescue workers responding to the scene in Nong Ri subdistrict found the body of Pornsak Liamthaisong, 42, from Surin province, with fatal injuries. A woman riding pillion, whose name was not immediately known, sustained severe fractures and was taken to hospital.

The motorcycle, a white-and-black Yamaha Nouvo registered in Samut Prakan, was found badly damaged. Nearby was a white Isuzu light cargo truck with Bangkok plates.

The truck driver, 25-year-old Ekkachai Tiapsi, told police he was driving to Chanthaburi when the motorcycle suddenly crossed the median and struck his vehicle, leaving him no time to brake.

Investigators said they would review dashcam and nearby CCTV footage to determine whether another vehicle may have struck the motorcycle before it lost control and crossed into oncoming traffic. Further legal action will follow based on the findings.

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