Pattaya officer turns into Chinese tourists’ social media star

By

-

24 April 2026, 16:28

PATTAYA – A Pattaya municipal officer has gone viral on social media after Chinese tourists were seen lining up to take photos with him, turning him into an unexpected online sensation during the recent holiday period.

Pongsatep Prasankhata, 28, known by his nickname “Nan,” works as a special affairs officer for Pattaya City, responsible for assisting tourists and ensuring safety at Bali Hai Pier, a key departure point for visitors in the coastal city.

Videos and images of Chinese tourists requesting photos with him were widely shared on TikTok, quickly spreading across social media platforms and drawing significant attention online.

Pongsatep, who runs the TikTok account “Nanza_27” with more than 164,000 followers and over 3.7 million likes, regularly posts content showing his daily work, including assisting tourists, providing safety support and helping visitors at tourist hotspots.

He said he began creating content on TikTok around 2–3 years ago as a hobby, but his videos gained increasing popularity, particularly among Chinese users. During the holiday period, large numbers of tourists visited Pattaya, with many recognising him and asking for photos, leading to widespread sharing online.

Despite the viral attention, he stressed that his main duty remains assisting all tourists equally. His daily responsibilities include managing parking and tourist facilitation during the day, and providing safety support in the evening, including basic first aid and assistance for elderly and disabled visitors.

The viral attention has been widely praised online, with many users saying the incident reflects Thailand’s tourism industry not only through its destinations, but also through frontline personnel who play a key role in creating trust and positive impressions among international visitors.

Rabies case confirmed in Korat, control measures stepped up

By

Khaosod English

-

24 April 2026, 16:23

Rabies case confirmed in Korat, control measures stepped up

NAKHON RATCHASIMA — 24 April 2026, Authorities have confirmed a case of rabies in a dog in Mueang district and are stepping up disease control measures, officials said.

Provincial livestock chief Phasavee Somjai said laboratory tests on a dog’s brain sample confirmed rabies in Nong Bua Sala subdistrict. Veterinary and local officials have launched an investigation and containment response.

The case stems from an incident on 21 April at 16:20, when a stray dog entered a home, bit another dog and later collapsed and died near a temple. Samples were collected and sent for testing.

Officials have begun vaccinating stray dogs in high-risk areas and plan sterilisation programmes to control the population and reduce long-term transmission risks.

Residents have been warned that bites, scratches or even saliva contact with open wounds can transmit the virus. Untreated rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.

The warning follows a recent fatal case in the district, in which a 54-year-old man died in February after developing symptoms consistent with rabies following a dog bite. Authorities said heightened surveillance is being enforced in neighbouring areas.

news128092 o1dqK9q8LA1777020528 — Warning sign by Public Health and Environment Division, Nong Bua Sala Subdistrict Municipality. URGENT NOTICE. Anyone bitten, scratched or licked by a brown dog is urged to seek medical attention immediately. Area: Within a 300-metre radius near the road in front of Wat Nong Bua Sala, Nong Bua Sala subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima. A dog in this area has died and tested positive for rabies. Please go to your nearest hospital immediately for rabies vaccination if you may have been exposed. Rabies is fatal once symptoms appear — do not delay. Contact: Public Health and Environment Division, Nong Bua Sala Subdistrict Municipality Tel. 0 4421 8122 ext. 7

Guide sought after tourists seen stepping on Phi Phi coral

By

Khaosod English

-

24 April 2026, 15:52

Guide sought after tourists seen stepping on Phi Phi coral

KRABI — 24 April 2026 — Authorities are seeking a tour guide after tourists were filmed stepping on coral near Phi Phi Islands, prompting criticism online.

Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park said the incident occurred near Viking Cave, a regulated snorkelling area marked by red buoy lines that restrict access to protect fragile reefs.

The park said it conducts regular patrols, sets clear boundaries and informs operators of permitted times, insisting it had not neglected oversight.

Officials are tracing the tour company involved and will pursue legal action for any violations. The park also urged the public to report misconduct via its hotline or official channels.

Thailand, China prioritise crackdown on transnational crime and scam gangs

By

Khaosod English

-

24 April 2026, 15:44

BANGKOK – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi have agreed to further deepen Thailand–China relations and enhance cooperation on security, trade and regional issues, a government spokesperson said on 24 April.

Government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek said Anutin expressed appreciation to the Chinese government and President Xi Jinping for continued support for Thailand on the international stage.

The prime minister also referred to the recent official visit to China by His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen, saying it reflected the close and long-standing relationship between the two countries.

Anutin said Thailand hoped China would continue supporting its development across all dimensions based on mutual trust, respect and the “close neighbours” relationship.

Wang, meanwhile, expressed pleasure in meeting the Thai prime minister following his assumption of office, and said he was confident in Thailand’s economic management and development potential under the current government.

He also conveyed greetings from President Xi Jinping and his family to the Thai King and Queen, and reaffirmed China’s confidence in Thailand’s stability, saying Beijing remains a reliable long-term partner.

Both sides agreed to upgrade bilateral relations towards a more comprehensive strategic partnership, including the development of a joint action plan aligned with each country’s development strategies to deliver more concrete cooperation across multiple areas.

They also discussed high-level exchanges, with China inviting the Thai prime minister to attend the APEC Leaders’ Meeting hosted by China in November 2026. Thailand, in turn, extended an invitation for Chinese Premier Li Qiang to visit Thailand, which Beijing accepted in principle, with scheduling to be coordinated.

On regional issues, Wang noted improving Thailand–Cambodia relations and expressed hope for continued positive developments. Thailand stressed the importance of enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation.

Both sides also prioritised security cooperation, particularly on transnational crime and scam syndicates, which they said have wide-ranging impacts on the public. The issue will be included in the joint action plan to strengthen safety and public confidence.

They further agreed to advance practical cooperation through existing mechanisms, meetings and joint activities at various levels to deliver tangible and sustainable results.

Ratchada said the talks reflected a high level of trust and close relations between Thailand and China, aimed not only at symbolic ties but at advancing long-term strategic and practical cooperation.

US sanctions Cambodian senator Kok An over scam centres targeting Americans

By

Khaosod English

-

24 April 2026, 15:06

WASHINGTON – The United States has imposed sanctions on Cambodian Senator Kok An and 28 associated individuals and entities over their role in large-scale online scam operations in Southeast Asia, according to a press statement.

Principal Deputy Spokesperson Thomas “Tommy” Pigott said Americans lost at least $10 billion to scam networks in the region in 2024, based on a U.S. government estimate, underscoring the scale of the threat.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said Kok An and his associates have operated and profited from scam compounds that target U.S. citizens. These operations frequently rely on human trafficking victims who are forced to carry out fraudulent activities under threats of violence, as documented in the State Department’s Trafficking in Persons Report.

678639672 1557970815700883 847625588314622981 n 1 — Cambodian Senator Kok An (Right)

Many of the compounds are located in casinos and commercial complexes, where trafficked individuals are compelled to run deceptive digital asset “investment” schemes. These scams typically begin with unsolicited messages and false promises of friendship or romance before victims are defrauded of significant sums.

The sanctions form part of a broader coordinated U.S. response involving the FBI, the U.S. Secret Service and the Department of Justice’s Scam Center Strike Force, aimed at dismantling transnational fraud networks operating at industrial scale.

Officials said the measures are intended to disrupt the ability of these criminal networks to continue operations, protect Americans and their savings, and expose human rights abuses linked to the scam industry, including forced labour and physical and sexual violence.

Thai Airways says no permanent route cancellations

By

Khaosod English

-

24 April 2026, 14:41

Thai Airways says no permanent route cancellations

BANGKOK — 24 April 2026, Thai Airways International has confirmed it is not permanently cancelling any flight routes despite recent reductions and schedule changes affecting more than 46 services in May, its chief executive said.

Speaking at the Transport Ministry, CEO Chai Eamsiri said the adjustments, covering both domestic and international routes, including destinations in Asia and Europe such as Singapore, Japan and India, as well as Udon Thani and Khon Kaen, were aimed at aligning operations with current demand.

He said the airline continues to operate all routes and maintain overall flight coverage, with changes limited to certain frequencies and timings.

Chai attributed the move to softer passenger demand, as travellers delay bookings amid economic uncertainty and rising living costs. Some flights, particularly those close to departure dates, have seen low seat occupancy, prompting the airline to consolidate services and improve efficiency.

The airline’s approach prioritises balancing commercial viability with passenger convenience, he said. Measures include deploying smaller aircraft where appropriate and reducing flight frequency, for example, from daily services to five times weekly, before considering cancellations, which would only be temporary if implemented.

The adjustments for May represent about 4–5% of the airline’s total schedule and are short term, Chai said, adding that a “war room” has been set up to monitor demand on a daily basis and respond quickly. Flight frequencies could be restored during peak travel periods if demand rebounds.

He also cited jet fuel prices as a major cost factor, noting that prices rose from about 90 US dollars per barrel before the end of February 2026 to a peak of around 240 dollars, nearly tripling. Although prices have since eased, they remain roughly double previous levels, requiring careful cost management and fare adjustments.

Chai said lower passenger loads have increased available cargo capacity, offering an opportunity to boost revenue through high-value goods and medical shipments, where demand remains strong.

He confirmed that aircraft procurement plans remain unchanged, stressing the importance of long-term sustainability over short-term fixes.

First-quarter 2026 performance was in line with expectations, he said, but warned that a prolonged conflict in the Middle East could have a significant impact on the global aviation industry. Thai Airways will continue to monitor developments and adjust its strategy accordingly.

CKPower schedules THB 715 million dividend payout for 22 May

By

Mc Marketing

-

24 April 2026, 14:31

CK Power Public Company Limited or CKPower (SET: CKP), one of the region’s largest producers of electricity from renewables with one of the lowest carbon footprints, held its 2026 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders via electronic means (E-AGM) on April 23, 2026. The meeting acknowledged the Company’s 2025 operating performance and approved a dividend payment for the 2025 operating results at the rate of THB 0.088 per share, totaling not exceeding THB 715 million. The Record Date for the right to receive the dividend is set for May 8, 2026, with dividend payment scheduled for May 22, 2026. CKPower continues to drive its growth through the development of renewable energy across the value chain, while strengthening Thailand’s energy security. The Company is also enhancing its organizational readiness in terms of human resources, technology, risk management, and continuous innovation development, in pursuit of its goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The meeting was chaired by Dr. Thanong Bidaya, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and attended by Mr. Plew Trivisvavet, Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. Thanawat Trivisvavet, Managing Director, and the Company’s Board of Directors at Supannikar Room, 4th Floor, Viriyathavorn Building.

Ancient Khmer ruins found beneath Korat housing estate

By

Khaosod English

-

24 April 2026, 13:56

Ancient Khmer ruins found beneath Korat housing estate

NAKHON RATCHASIMA — 24 April 2026, Archaeologists have uncovered what is believed to be a centuries-old Khmer structure beneath a residential development in northeastern Thailand, prompting plans for further excavation.

The discovery, described locally as a sandstone “prasat” ruin, was made on privately owned land in Ban Mai subdistrict, Mueang district. The landowner has granted permission for officials to investigate a 27-square-wah plot.

The Fine Arts Department’s Office 10 in Nakhon Ratchasima has deployed an archaeological team to conduct careful excavations to avoid damaging artefacts. Initial findings indicate stone formations consistent with an ancient temple structure, now undergoing scientific verification.

Local residents say the site has long been regarded as sacred. Retired official Prayut Theppariwat, 76, who lives nearby, said oral histories describe the area as once containing a deep cave believed to hold valuables, with a large reservoir, or “baray”, formerly located nearby.

Another resident, 84-year-old Ranjuan Chaekoh, a former landowner, said villagers traditionally paid respects at the site before farming, believing it would bring protection and good fortune. The area was later sold and developed, and the structure was only revealed when excavation work uncovered stone remains.

The site gained wider attention after being shared on social media earlier this year, highlighting concerns that remnants of a Khmer-era monument, estimated to be 900 to 1,000 years old, risked being lost amid urban expansion.

Experts believe the structure may be linked to a larger religious complex, with evidence such as pottery fragments and what is thought to have been a large water reservoir nearby.

Officials said further excavation is planned to better understand the site’s origins and historical significance.

Pedestrians hurt in Pattaya crash involving motorcycle

By

Khaosod English

-

24 April 2026, 13:32

Pedestrians hurt in Pattaya crash involving motorcycle

PATTAYA — 24 April 2026, A Chinese man and a Thai woman were injured when a motorcycle lost control and struck pedestrians while crossing a road in Pattaya early on Friday, police said.

The incident occurred at 3:10 on Pattaya South Road in Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province. Police and rescue workers responded to reports of a collision involving a motorcycle and pedestrians.

At the scene, officers found a grey Honda Wave 125 motorcycle overturned with significant front-end damage. The rider, an unidentified man believed to be aged between 20 and 30, was found unconscious with a head injury and multiple wounds. He was given first aid before being rushed to a nearby hospital.

A black Ford pickup truck registered in Bangkok was also at the scene with damage to a rear tyre. The driver, Suthanon Praha, 44, remained to give a statement.

Police said a Chinese man and a Thai woman who were crossing the road sustained minor injuries, including chest pain, and were treated at the scene.

According to the pickup driver, the motorcycle was travelling at speed in the opposite direction when the pedestrians began crossing. The rider appeared to lose control while attempting to avoid them, swerved abruptly and struck the rear of the pickup before hitting the Thai woman and crashing.

Police have documented the scene and are reviewing nearby CCTV footage while questioning those involved to determine the exact cause of the accident.

‘Very handsome’: Wang Yi’s compliment sparks smiles in meeting with Thai PM

By

Khaosod English

-

24 April 2026, 13:17

BANGKOK – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on 24 April welcomed Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Government House, where both sides held talks aimed at strengthening Thailand–China relations, highlighted by a light-hearted exchange in which Wang complimented the Thai leader’s appearance.

At 11:00, Anutin, who also serves as interior minister, together with Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas, received Wang at the Thai Khu Fah Building during his official visit to Thailand as a guest of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Upon arrival, Anutin and Wang shook hands warmly before Wang, speaking in Chinese, told the Thai prime minister he looked “very handsome.” Anutin smiled and replied, “You are more handsome than me,” prompting laughter from Wang.

The two leaders then posed for photographs before proceeding to a closed-door meeting at the second-floor reception room, where they discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation.

Following about one hour of talks, Anutin and Wang later stepped out together and proceeded to a private lunch arranged by the Thai side. The prime minister personally drove Wang in a private electric vehicle, with Foreign Minister Sihasak seated in the back.

During the meeting, Thailand also hosted refreshments including durian, coconut bamboo rice, and traditional Thai desserts.

The delegation departed Government House at around 12:00.

Hot News

LATEST NEWS