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Lampang police launch horse patrols for Songkran, cut fuel costs

Lampang police launch horse patrols for Songkran, cut fuel costs

LAMPANG — 8 April 2026, Police in Lampang have introduced horse-drawn carriage patrols for the Songkran festival, combining local heritage with public safety efforts while reducing fuel consumption.

The initiative, led by Muang Lampang Police Station, deploys carriage patrols alongside conventional car and motorcycle units to maintain order, protect lives and property, and boost confidence among tourists during the holiday period.

Officers selected for the programme underwent training with the Lampang Carriage Association to learn how to handle and control horse-drawn carriages before being assigned to active duty. Patrols will focus on key routes, including Boonyawat and Thip Chang roads, as well as economic areas in the city centre.

Pol. Lt. Col. Thanee Tanjankul, deputy superintendent for prevention and suppression, personally tested the carriage patrols and led officers in field operations. He said the project aligns with policy set by provincial police chief Major General Phumiphan Nawatrakulpisut to enhance security during the festival.

Carriage patrols will operate alongside other units, providing supplementary and joint patrols, and in some areas replacing motorised patrols to help reduce fuel use amid high energy prices. Officers will also monitor sensitive locations such as gold shops, businesses and tourist sites across the city.

As part of the initiative, officers wear traditional-style police uniforms while on duty, reflecting Lampang’s unique identity as Thailand’s only province where horse-drawn carriages remain in use for tourism.

Carriages have been part of Lampang’s history since the reign of King Chulalongkorn in 1915, when they served as a primary means of transport between provinces such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Phrae. While they have largely disappeared elsewhere, Lampang has preserved the tradition and formally established its carriage association in 1952.

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The Latest: Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israeli attacks on Lebanon

The Latest: Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israeli attacks on Lebanon

IRAN — 8 April 2026, Iran, the United States and Israel agreed to a two-week ceasefire on Tuesday, an 11th-hour deal that headed off U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to unleash a bombing campaign that would destroy Iranian civilization. Hours after the announcement, Iran and Gulf Arab countries reported new attacks Wednesday, though it was not clear if the strikes would scuttle the deal.

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All sides have presented vastly different versions of the terms. Iran said the deal would allow it to formalize its new practice of charging ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump said the U.S. would work with Iran to remove buried enriched uranium, though Iran did not confirm that.

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President Donald Trump departs after speaking with reporters during a news conference in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Monday, April 6, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Pakistan and others said fighting would pause in Lebanon, which Israel has invaded to fight Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said early Wednesday that the deal doesn’t cover fighting against Hezbollah. Israeli strikes hit several dense commercial and residential areas in central Beirut Wednesday afternoon without warning, killing dozens and wounding hundreds of people.

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz again Wednesday in response to Israeli attacks against the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon.

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White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Wednesday, April 8, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

The ceasefire may formalize a system of charging fees in the Strait of Hormuz that Iran instituted — and give it a new source of revenue. Iranian attacks and threats deterred many commercial ships from passing through the waterway, through which 20% of all traded oil and natural gas passes in peacetime.

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A man sits inside a shelter watching television news after a two-week ceasefire with Iran was announced, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Wednesday, April 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)
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Thailand targets global role in semiconductors and photonics

BANGKOK — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yodchanan Wongsawat met with Michael Hurlston, CEO of global optical and laser technology leader Lumentum, to discuss strategic collaboration aimed at advancing Thailand’s semiconductor and photonics industries.

The meeting at the Ministry of Higher Education focused on strengthening Thailand’s position in the global value chain through support for advanced technologies, including AI, data centers, and modern digital infrastructure.

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Both sides exchanged views on the country’s semiconductor sector, with the ministry highlighting policies to shift from traditional manufacturing toward higher-value activities such as design, research, and applied innovation—areas in which Lumentum holds global expertise.

An MOU was signed between Lumentum, Mahanakorn University of Technology (MUT), and the Thailand Microelectronics Center (TMEC) to establish a “Triple Helix” ecosystem linking government, academia, and industry. The agreement covers workforce development, short- and long-term courses in photonics and advanced communications, research lab upgrades, internships, and industry exposure programs.

Hurlston expressed confidence in Thailand’s potential, pledging long-term partnership to develop high-skilled talent and enhance the country’s competitiveness in AI, semiconductors, and related technologies globally.

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Thai police subdue drug-fuelled man wielding knife

Thai police subdue drug-fuelled man wielding knife

NONG KHAI — 5 April 2026, Police in northeastern Thailand subdued a 32-year-old man allegedly under the influence of drugs after he threatened residents with a knife in a village, authorities said.

The incident occurred at about 18:30 in Ban Sangkali, Kaeng Kai subdistrict, Sangkhom district.

Patrol officers responded to reports of a man behaving erratically after taking methamphetamine and brandishing a knife while shouting and intimidating villagers.

At the scene, officers found the suspect, later identified as Sitthichai, holding a machete on a public road and causing fear among nearby residents.

Police used trained tactics and control equipment to subdue and detain him before handing him over to investigators.

He faces charges of illegal use of a Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine) and carrying a weapon in a public place without reasonable cause.

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Bangkok Skytrain driver screams mid-journey, sparks panic

BANGKOK — A female train driver has been suspended after passengers reported hearing screams from the driver’s cabin on the suburban Red Line, prompting concern among commuters and widespread discussion on social media.

According to the Department of Rail Transport, the incident occurred on 7 April at around 14:30 on a train travelling from Rangsit to Don Mueang. Passengers said they heard repeated screaming from the cabin, at times continuous, causing panic. Some attempted to knock on the door but received no response before the noise eventually stopped.

Director-General Pichet Kunadhamraks said authorities were alerted via social media later that evening and immediately coordinated with the operator, SRT Electrified Train Company, to investigate.

Preliminary findings indicate the driver had been on duty from 07:00 to 15:00, with the incident occurring during her final trip of the day. Officials believe the behaviour may have been linked to accumulated stress combined with personal issues.

Despite the incident, the driver was able to operate the train safely to its final destination at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal.

The operator said it has temporarily removed the driver from duty and reassigned her to another position, while arranging comprehensive physical and mental health evaluations. It also apologised for the distress caused to passengers.

The company added that all staff undergo strict pre-duty checks, including physical and mental readiness assessments, alcohol testing, and safety inspections. No irregularities were found prior to the shift, and CCTV footage showed no use of mobile phones during operation.

The Department of Rail Transport said it is reviewing staff qualification standards, particularly mental health screening, to prevent similar incidents in the future. It also reaffirmed that the Red Line maintains high safety standards and has not recorded any major accidents in more than 15 years of operation.

 

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Three Thai crew confirmed dead after Hormuz attack, FM says

BANGKOK — Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, said on Tuesday that all three crew members of the Mayuree Naree cargo ship, which was attacked by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, have been confirmed dead.

Speaking at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families, describing the loss as “deeply saddening.”

He said he is scheduled to visit Oman on 15–16 April at the invitation of his Omani counterpart, where he will convey Thailand’s appreciation for Oman’s assistance to the crew of the Mayuree Naree.

The minister added that Thailand is closely monitoring reports of ongoing discussions between Oman and Iran, which jointly oversee the Strait of Hormuz, on measures to manage maritime traffic, ensure safety, and uphold peaceful navigation in the area.

He said Thailand hopes the talks will yield progress, noting that during a reported two-week ceasefire, there may be an opportunity for vessels stranded in the area to pass through the strait. One Thai vessel has already exited, while nine others remain awaiting clearance, including a ship carrying essential fertiliser cargo.

Sihasak said Thailand will seek Oman’s support in coordinating with Iran to allow the remaining Thai vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire period.

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AIS x ReelShort: Premium at 39 THB/month

AIS 5G advances a seamless integration of connections and content, proving its leadership in intelligent network infrastructure that drives every digital lifestyle. Through partnerships with ReelShort, the leading app in its category and a global leader in vertical short-dramas, the firm is also pioneering the vertical short-drama experience in Thailand. With content that is easy to view, quick to complete, and available anytime, anywhere, our partnership seeks to provide entertainment experiences catered to contemporary digital consumers. For both postpaid and prepaid customers, AIS also introduced the “5G ReelShort” package, which offers a VIP subscription to all ReelShort content—every title, every episode, and without ads—all with 5G connectivity at a very alluring price of just 39 THB per month (down from the regular price of THB 599 per month). With a content collection of over 2,700 films, ReelShort is a vertical short-drama platform created especially for mobile watching. The portal covers a broad spectrum of popular genres, such as romance, intense drama, CEO-themed narratives, high-impact plot twists, and popular Chinese shows. With new episodes being broadcast every day, popular shows include Bound By Honor (373 million views), True Heiress vs. Fake Queen Bee (435 million views), and Move Aside! I’m the Final Boss (311 million views). The partnership enhances AIS’s position as a provider of one of the most comprehensive vertical short-drama content options in the industry while also improving the “short, fast, fun” entertainment experience—ideal for consuming during commutes, breaks, or before bed.

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Mr. Lertchai Kodsup, Chief Mobile Business Officer of AIS, said: “This partnership with ReelShort reflects AIS’s direction in building a Digital Ecosystem that seamlessly integrates both networks. We believe that having access to content that genuinely suits our customers is just as important to a satisfying digital experience nowadays as having a high-quality internet connection. With a distinct advantage in mobile-first content, ReelShort is a global leader in the vertical short-drama industry. In addition to a constant flow of new series and frequent content upgrades, its library offers over 2,700 vertical programs with Thai dubbing and subtitles. This partnership strengthens AIS’s position as a genuine leader in digital content by giving its customers easy, comprehensive, and reasonably priced access to top-notch content aligned with contemporary lifestyles that demand quick, simple-to-watch entertainment anytime, anywhere.

Mr. Joey Jia, CEO of Crazy Maple Studio which owns ReelShort, said: “Southeast Asia is one of the most exciting and competitive mobile entertainment markets globally. Launching with a true industry powerhouse like AIS allows us to bring premium, mobile-first storytelling to millions of Thai consumers. Thailand is just the beginning of ReelShort’s much broader regional expansion strategy.”

The collaboration between AIS and ReelShort represents more than just the release of a new package. It demonstrates AIS’s aim to improve its digital content ecosystem by connecting intelligent network infrastructure with global entertainment platforms, resulting in accessible, smooth, and high-quality entertainment experiences for every moment of modern life.

Customers now can subscribe to the “5G ReelShort” add-on package to enjoy VIP access to all ReelShort content—unlimited viewing with no ads—along with 5G connectivity at only 39 THB per month. The package is available for both postpaid and prepaid customers. For more information, please visit: https://www.ais.th/consumers/entertainment/streaming-app/reelshort

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Getting to Know Under-Eye Bag Surgeons in Thailand

Under-Eye Bag Surgery Doctors in Thailand

Under-eye bags and sagging are often the main culprits that make your face look tired, exhausted, and older than your actual age. Solving this problem through surgery is a proven way to restore brightness and significantly reduce your perceived age. If you are looking for the under-eye bag surgeons in Thailand to transform your eyes and bring back your youthful look, today we have gathered information and selected the under eye bag surgery surgeons in Thailand for you. Rest assured that each of them is a specialized under-eye bag surgeon with treatment techniques tailored to resolve all your concerns effectively.

Under-Eye Bag Surgery Doctors in Thailand, Updated for 2026

Under-Eye Bag Surgery Doctors in Thailand

For 2026, there are several clinics and doctors who excel at managing under-eye fat effectively. Let’s see which under-eye bag surgeons have earned the trust and impressive reviews from real patients.

1. Dr. Phuwit from ALINE Clinic

Dr. Phuwit Kongchayanan, or Dr. Phuwit, is a specialized facial plastic surgeon from ALINE Clinic in Nakhon Ratchasima. Besides being renowned as a highly skilled open structural rhinoplasty doctor, he also shines in under-eye bag surgery. He offers two techniques: an inner-incision approach that leaves no visible scars and requires no stitch removal, and an outer-incision technique that flawlessly hides the scar under the lower lash line. Utilizing the Fat Repositioning technique, he directly addresses sagging issues. He is undoubtedly one of the under-eye bag surgery doctors whom patients in Korat and nearby provinces consistently trust and visit.

2. Dr. Lin from inZ Hospital

Dr. Wanwisa Tansiricharernkul, or Dr. Lin, an ophthalmologist at inZ Hospital, is famous for her scarless under-eye fat removal technique. Her standout feature is that patients experience almost no pain and very minimal swelling and bruising post-surgery. Most importantly, there is no long recovery time needed—patients can return to their daily routines right away. The result is a naturally younger and brighter-looking face, without the worry of the fat accumulating again.

3. Dr. Atom from Surkin Clinic

Dr. Thanchat Jienmaneechotchai, or Dr. Atom from Surkin Clinic, is a specialized Oculoplastic surgeon and is widely considered one of the oculoplastic surgeons in Bangkok, Thailand. He utilizes a unique inner-incision (no outer scar) surgical technique. He rearranges the fat from the inside without any sutures protruding outward. This helps reduce the tear trough and prevents the eyes from looking hollow or pulled after surgery. Additionally, his special techniques ensure minimal swelling, quick recovery, and beautiful, long-lasting results.

4. Dr. Nui from Teeraporn Clinic

Dr. Nui Jutima, an ophthalmologist at Teeraporn Clinic, is another expert who comprehensively solves eye contour issues, making her one of the cosmetic surgeons under eye bags in Bangkok, Thailand. For under-eye bag removal, she uses the clinic’s special technique to hide the surgical incision on the inside. This allows for the maximum removal of excess fat without leaving any visible scars on the outer skin. If you have prominent under-eye bags or a lot of fat accumulation, consulting with her is a highly recommended option.

Summary

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Under-eye bags that make your face look tired can easily be fixed. Simply choose to consult and receive treatment from the under eye bag surgery specialist in Thailand who has genuine expertise and a deep understanding of the eye area’s structure. Since each doctor has different techniques and specialties, we recommend making an appointment for a preliminary evaluation. This will help you decide on the most suitable treatment plan and achieve the most satisfying results.

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Thai PM evades questions on refinery, fuel probe

Thai PM evades questions on refinery, fuel probe

BANGKOK — 8 April 2026, Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul declined to comment on several energy-related issues on Tuesday, offering only a brief reaction to questions from reporters.

Asked whether the United States–Iran two-week ceasefire signalled a positive development, Anutin responded with a nod.

When questioned about Energy Minister Ekkanat Promphan’s claim that two oil refineries had not cooperated in reducing refining margins, Anutin smiled but did not answer.

He also declined to respond when pressed on whether the refineries would be called in for further talks, as well as on a Department of Special Investigation (DSI) operation earlier in the day to inspect an oil depot in Lam Luk Ka district, Pathum Thani, over suspected fuel stockpiling.

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Inside a huge compound on Thailand-Cambodia border where 10,000 workers scammed people globally

Thai soldiers inspect a work station at the scam compound in O'Smach, Cambodia, Tuesday, April 7, 2026. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

O’SMACH, Cambodia (AP) — I have often used the word industrial-scale in my own writing to describe the scam compounds that dot this region in Southeast Asia.

But the weight of that phrase truly sunk in at the O’Smach Resort complex that we visited on Tuesday. Thailand’s military, which conducted a tour for the media, said that the whole area encompasses around 197 acres (80 hectares), equivalent to 150 American football fields.

It wasn’t my first time at a scam center, but its scale dwarfed anything I had seen before.

From my base in the region, I have followed this issue for the past few years, watching its scale only grow larger and larger.

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A Thai soldier guards outside the scam compound in O’Smach, Cambodia, Tuesday, April 7, 2026. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Scam compounds have mushroomed across Southeast Asia since the pandemic. Inside these industrial-scale complexes, workers attempt to lure unsuspecting targets from countries all across the world in sophisticated online-based scams. The latest estimates from the U.N. office on Human Rights are that around 300,000 workers are caught up in the industry regionally.

Thailand’s military invited journalists back to the huge scam complex it seized in December during its border conflict with Cambodia. The military said it took the area in response to the Cambodian side using it as a base of operations for launching attacks.

The complex was called the O’Smach Resort, owned by Cambodian politician Ly Yong Phat, who faces U.S. sanctions for rights abuses in the very same complex. It’s unclear, however, whether the new construction also belongs to Ly. Throughout the massive grounds of the self-contained town, there were signs of construction. Piles of bricks and construction cranes sat waiting for workers to finish the job.

The military also took us to the premises where workers likely scammed Americans. FBI data released on Tuesday shows that Americans lost near $21 billion to scams in 2025 alone.

On the desks inside a four-story office building were still snacks from the previous users, as well as scripts and notes in Chinese on each aspect of the scam. American SIM cards were scattered about as well.

There was an elaborate backstory to target the Americans. One of the scripts on the desk was 24 pages of an in-depth character sketch of a woman named Mila who had earned a lot of money on the gold options trading market.

But the script went further. Mila had lost her husband to leukemia when their daughter was just a baby. It constructed memories of her childhood, such as her getting bullied by other girls, and then her parents sending her to South Africa to live with her uncle in order to be in a healthier environment.

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SIM cards are pictured at the scam compound in O’Smach, Cambodia, Tuesday, April 7, 2026. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

There are 157 buildings, 29 of which housed the scam companies and their offices. The rest included massive dorm complexes, and more luxurious accommodations that included apartments and three-story villas. The military officials said they estimated that at least 10,000 people were living there.

There was also a variety of Chinese restaurants, catering to people who wanted spicy Hunan cuisine, or southern Shaxian cuisine, or hot and sour rice noodles, a Sichuanese classic.

While Thailand and Cambodia have vowed to tackle the scamming problem, its scale is far more global.

“Every country of the world has to join together to solve this problem, (we) cannot do it alone with Cambodia and Thailand,” said Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sornchaidee, who was one of the officials leading the tour.

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