Nyheter fra The Thaiger
My RSS Feed
- Child’s play turns to ash: Toy factory fire sparks 10 million baht loss
A fire erupted at a children’s toy warehouse shortly after the owner left, causing damage estimated at over 10 million baht, though fortunately, the blaze did not spread to adjacent warehouses. The incident occurred at approximately 6.30pm yesterday, April 29, at Tiny Lion Co., Ltd., located in Mueang Samut Sakhon district, Samut Sakhon province. The …
The story Child’s play turns to ash: Toy factory fire sparks 10 million baht loss as seen on Thaiger News.
Child’s play turns to ash: Toy factory fire sparks 10 million baht lossLegacy A fire erupted at a children’s toy warehouse shortly after the owner left, causing damage estimated at over 10 million baht, though fortunately, the blaze did not spread to adjacent warehouses.
The incident occurred at approximately 6.30pm yesterday, April 29, at Tiny Lion Co., Ltd., located in Mueang Samut Sakhon district, Samut Sakhon province. The company specialises in distributing children’s toys and developmental equipment made from plastic via online platforms. Emergency services from various local municipalities and nearby areas, totalling over 20 fire trucks, were dispatched to the scene.
The warehouse, comprising two large adjacent buildings on an area exceeding one rai, saw the fire intensify within the first building due to the large quantity of plastic toys stored inside. Firefighters tackled the blaze from all directions to prevent it from spreading to neighbouring structures.
Fortunately, the absence of strong winds allowed firefighters to control the fire within approximately one hour. However, the intense flames caused partial collapse of the warehouse roof. Despite extinguishing the fire, the incident commander ordered firefighters to continue dousing the area to prevent potential reignition.
Nattapat Phuwaphinan, the 30 year old owner of the warehouse, mentioned that she had rented the facility for about two years. She had just locked up and was driving home when she received a call from a neighbouring factory informing her of the fire. She quickly returned to find the blaze raging.
The warehouse contained a new stock of toys intended for online sales on platforms such as Lazada and Shopee. Thankfully, the fire was contained to one warehouse and did not spread to the adjacent building, which was also fully stocked. At the time of the incident, one worker was present in the warehouse but managed to escape unharmed, reported KhaoSod.
The cause of the fire is pending investigation by forensic experts, who will determine the precise origin. Additionally, structural engineers will assess whether the warehouse can be repaired and used again. Meanwhile, the Na Di subdistrict municipality has declared the affected area off-limits until the investigation is complete.
The story Child’s play turns to ash: Toy factory fire sparks 10 million baht loss as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Thailand Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894459 - Thai agriculture minister boosts lychee farming in Nakhon Phanom
Agriculture Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat yesterday visited a major lychee farm in Nakhon Phanom province to observe the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing high-value agricultural products and services. Accompanied by Anongnat Jakaew, the agriculture minister’s secretary, and a team of officials, she engaged with local farmers to understand their challenges. The Uthai Rasmilichit Nakhon Phanom …
The story Thai agriculture minister boosts lychee farming in Nakhon Phanom as seen on Thaiger News.
Thai agriculture minister boosts lychee farming in Nakhon PhanomLegacy Agriculture Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat yesterday visited a major lychee farm in Nakhon Phanom province to observe the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing high-value agricultural products and services.
Accompanied by Anongnat Jakaew, the agriculture minister’s secretary, and a team of officials, she engaged with local farmers to understand their challenges.
The Uthai Rasmilichit Nakhon Phanom 1 lychee variety is a significant economic crop for the province, with potential as a high-value agricultural product. This aligns with the agriculture ministry’s goal of ensuring a better standard of living for farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural resources.
Currently, the lychee cultivation area spans approximately 2,969 rai, yielding around 2,500 tonnes annually. Each tree, aged between eight to 10 years, produces between 50 and 180 kilogrammes of fruit.
The lychee farm has been registered as a large-scale farm and a Geographical Indication (GI) product of Nakhon Phanom. Farmers from other provinces, including Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan, Nong Khai, Nong Bua Lamphu, and Udon Thani, have also started cultivating this crop to generate income.
Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Narumon highlighted that over the past year, the export of Thai agricultural products, particularly fruits, has generated more than 1 trillion baht in economic value.
Lychee, as a key economic fruit, has contributed to Thailand’s reputation. The agriculture ministry expresses pride in the efforts of Thai farmers and aims to support them comprehensively.
She visited the large-scale Nakhon Phanom 1 lychee growers to offer encouragement. This special variety, recognised for its GI standard, has gained international acclaim.
The ministry intends to further support farmers through initiatives such as providing land title deeds and addressing water resource issues.
The Department of Irrigation has been tasked with examining solutions for water pumping stations to enhance water distribution for agriculture.
Pictures courtesy of Thai Post 
In terms of soil development, the Department of Land Development is preparing fertilisers and other resources to aid farmers in optimising their agricultural efficiency. The goal is to increase the production of high-value agricultural goods, ensuring farmers’ income stability and career security.
Regarding rubber farmers, Narumon assured them of stable rubber prices. The ministry is coordinating with the private sector to establish fair buying and selling practices.
Efforts are underway to restore rubber prices to previous levels and potentially increase them in the future. For crops outside the ministry’s jurisdiction, coordination with relevant agencies will be pursued to minimise any potential impact on farmers, reported KhaoSod.
The story Thai agriculture minister boosts lychee farming in Nakhon Phanom as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Eastern Thailand Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894446 - Myanmar woman admits to burying newborn in Songkhla
A 20 year old woman from Myanmar admitted to burying her newborn after secretly giving birth at her residence in Songkhla province. Hospital staff were alerted to her condition when she arrived at a local hospital exhausted, with vaginal bleeding and milk discharge, prompting an investigation. Yesterday, April 29, a social worker from Hat Yai …
The story Myanmar woman admits to burying newborn in Songkhla as seen on Thaiger News.
Myanmar woman admits to burying newborn in SongkhlaLegacy A 20 year old woman from Myanmar admitted to burying her newborn after secretly giving birth at her residence in Songkhla province. Hospital staff were alerted to her condition when she arrived at a local hospital exhausted, with vaginal bleeding and milk discharge, prompting an investigation.
Yesterday, April 29, a social worker from Hat Yai Hospital reported the incident to Police Colonel Veerasak Detpramuanpol at Thung Lung Police Station. Upon questioning, the woman confessed to delivering a premature baby and burying it near her accommodation in Phatong subdistrict, Hat Yai district, Songkhla.
Pol. Col. Veerasak coordinated with forensic officers and emergency services to examine the site identified by the woman. Underneath a tree near the workers’ housing, they discovered a blood clot wrapped in fabric, alongside small bones of a foetus approximately five to six months in gestation. These were sent to Songklanagarind Hospital for forensic examination.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman’s supervisor, having noticed her absence from work for several days, visited her home and discovered her weak and bleeding, with milk discharge. Concerned for her well-being, the supervisor called emergency services, leading to her hospitalisation at Hat Yai Hospital.
The woman recounted that she had been in a relationship with her partner for one year, but they had since parted ways. On the evening of April 21, she experienced abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding.
After delivering the premature foetus, she wrapped it in cloth, placed it in a plastic bag, and buried it under a tree near her accommodation, reported KhaoSod.
Law enforcement is continuing to investigate the case and will proceed with legal action as necessary.
In similar news, a karaoke bar employee, who allegedly did not realise she was pregnant, is reported to have given birth in a bathroom and placed the deceased newborn in a plastic bag before discarding it in a trash bin.
The story Myanmar woman admits to burying newborn in Songkhla as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Crime Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894460 - How to hack Thailand’s May holidays for a 10-day break
Get ready to pack your bags—May is shaping up to be a jackpot month for long holidays, and if you play your cards right, you could be lounging for 10 days straight. Hot on the heels of April’s Songkran break, May brings another wave of public holidays that offer golden opportunities for extended rest, road …
The story How to hack Thailand’s May holidays for a 10-day break as seen on Thaiger News.
How to hack Thailand’s May holidays for a 10-day breakLegacy Get ready to pack your bags—May is shaping up to be a jackpot month for long holidays, and if you play your cards right, you could be lounging for 10 days straight.
Hot on the heels of April’s Songkran break, May brings another wave of public holidays that offer golden opportunities for extended rest, road trips or relaxing staycations.
Whether you’re a government worker or in the private sector, this is your chance to maximise your time off without burning through your entire leave balance.
For government officials and civil servants:
Public holidays:
-
Sunday, May 4: Coronation Day
-
Monday, May 5: Substituted holiday for Coronation Day
-
Friday, May 9: Royal Ploughing Ceremony
-
Sunday, May 11: Visakha Bucha Day
-
Monday, May 12: Substituted holiday for Visakha Bucha Day
This means you’ll automatically enjoy:
-
A 3-day long weekend: Saturday, May 3 to Monday, May 5
-
A 4-day break: Friday, May 9 to Monday, May 12
Now here’s the real trick: take just three additional leave days on May 6, 7, and 8, and boom—you’ve got a glorious 10-day holiday from May 3-12.
For private sector employees and banks:
Bank holidays:
-
Thursday, May 1: Labour Day
-
Sunday, May 4: Coronation Day
-
Monday, May 5: Substituted holiday for Coronation Day
-
Sunday, May 11: Visakha Bucha Day
-
Monday, May 12: Substituted holiday for Visakha Bucha Day
That gives most in the private sector:
-
A 3-day break: Saturday, May 3 to Monday, May 5
-
Another 3-day weekend: Saturday, May 10 to Monday, May 12
Photo courtesy of Solopassport Want to turn it into a full-blown escape? Request four days off from May 6-9 and enjoy the same 10-day break, according to Thairath.
Of course, every company’s leave policy differs, so double-check with your HR department. But if approved, you’ve just unlocked the ultimate May getaway.
Don’t sleep on this—those May dates could be your ticket to a much-needed recharge. Book early, and thank us later.
In similar news, Thai Vietjet is heating up summer travel with a sizzling promotion—domestic flights from just 799 baht, including taxes and fees.
Whether you’re craving the beaches of Phuket, the charm of Chiang Mai, or the flavours of Hat Yai, there’s a bargain waiting. International routes are also included, with fares starting at 1,799 baht to destinations like Taipei and Phu Quoc.
The story How to hack Thailand’s May holidays for a 10-day break as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Bangkok Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894833 -
- Ninja thief with long criminal record arrested while hiding under bed
A Thai man, infamously dubbed the ninja thief, attempted to evade arrest by hiding beneath a bed in an apartment in Pathum Thani province but failed. Several victims of the ninja thief, identified as 22 year old Korraphak, sought assistance from social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet. They reported to Gun that Korraphak had committed crimes …
The story Ninja thief with long criminal record arrested while hiding under bed as seen on Thaiger News.
Ninja thief with long criminal record arrested while hiding under bedLegacy A Thai man, infamously dubbed the ninja thief, attempted to evade arrest by hiding beneath a bed in an apartment in Pathum Thani province but failed.
Several victims of the ninja thief, identified as 22 year old Korraphak, sought assistance from social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet. They reported to Gun that Korraphak had committed crimes over 20 times, yet remained at large despite complaints being filed at 13 different police stations.
According to the victims, Korraphak targeted people who sold second-hand items via social media platforms. He would contact the sellers, arrange to buy an item, then snatch the valuable possession and flee the scene on his motorcycle.
To avoid detection, Korraphak used a motorcycle either without a registration plate or with a fake one. In some instances, he used a stolen vehicle to further obscure his trail.
One of the victims, John, revealed during a press conference with Gun that he sold a camera worth 59,000 baht through his Facebook account.
Korraphak informed John that a delivery rider would be sent to collect the item and complete the payment. Korrapha then posed as the rider, snatched the camera, and fled on his motorcycle.
Photo via Facebook/ กันจอมพลัง ช่วยสู้ Another victim, Bee, shared that she arranged to sell her iPhone 15 to Korraphak. Upon meeting, he asked to test a feature of the phone and immediately ran off with it once Bee handed it over. She gave chase, but he pushed her to the ground, rendering her unconscious.
Photo via Facebook/ กันจอมพลัง ช่วยสู้ Other victims reported similar incidents in which Korraphak employed the same deceptive tactics. He later sold the stolen items through online platforms. While some victims came across their belongings online, they were powerless to reclaim them.
Photo via Facebook/ กันจอมพลัง ช่วยสู้ Gun coordinated with the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau (IDMB) and the superintendents of the police stations where the incidents were reported. Their collaboration led to Korraphak’s arrest earlier today, April 30.
Photo via Facebook/ กันจอมพลัง ช่วยสู้ A video shared by Gun showed officers entering his apartment, initially finding no one inside except for his pet cat. Officers searched the bathroom and the balcony. One officer lifted the bed’s wooden sheet and discovered Korraphak hiding underneath.
Korraphak was taken into custody. However, legal proceedings against him have yet to be concluded due to the number of his alleged crimes.
The story Ninja thief with long criminal record arrested while hiding under bed as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Central Thailand Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894837 - Thailand electricity bills to drop as summer rates slashed
Good news for energy-strapped Thai households and businesses—your next electricity bill might finally give your wallet a break. The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is expected to unveil a revised electricity tariff rate today, April 30, that will bring down costs for millions across the country. The adjustment, known as the Fuel Tariff (Ft) rate, is …
The story Thailand electricity bills to drop as summer rates slashed as seen on Thaiger News.
Thailand electricity bills to drop as summer rates slashedLegacy Good news for energy-strapped Thai households and businesses—your next electricity bill might finally give your wallet a break.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is expected to unveil a revised electricity tariff rate today, April 30, that will bring down costs for millions across the country. The adjustment, known as the Fuel Tariff (Ft) rate, is likely to drop from 4.15 baht to 3.99 baht per unit for the May to August billing period.
Poonpat Leesombatpiboon, Secretary-General and spokesperson for the ERC, will deliver the official announcement following a proposal submitted by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT). The move is part of ongoing efforts to ease the cost of living and reduce the financial pressure of energy expenses on the public.
“The reduction reflects the government’s commitment to energy cost relief,” the ERC stated in a press release. “It also delays EGAT’s recovery of the substantial fuel and power purchase costs it has absorbed to shield consumers.”
Had the rate remained unchanged at 4.15 baht per unit, set for the January to April period, EGAT would have started recovering its mounting cost burden. That burden, known as the Accumulated Factor (AF), currently stands at 14.59 billion baht, or 20.33 satang per unit.
Photo courtesy of The Nation The AF covers various expenses, including the difference between actual and collected natural gas prices from state suppliers, which EGAT had to manage between September and December 2023.
EGAT’s total outstanding cost absorption is estimated at 70 billion baht. By the end of August, this is projected to fall to 60.47 billion baht, excluding an additional 15.08 billion baht still pending from gas pricing discrepancies during the same 2023 period, reported The Nation.
The upcoming press briefing, titled Results of the Consideration of the Proposal to Adjust the Electricity Tariff according to the Automatic Tariff Adjustment Formula (Ft) for May to August, according to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand’s measures to reduce the energy cost burden on the public, will be held at 1pm on Wednesday, April 30, at the ERC’s offices in Bangkok.
Dr Poonpat will address media representatives and provide full details on the rate adjustment and its implications for consumers.
The story Thailand electricity bills to drop as summer rates slashed as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Economy Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894815 - AOT opens 30 billion baht airport land for private investment
The Airports of Thailand (AOT) is inviting private investment to develop 2,500 rai of land surrounding six major airports, with an estimated project value nearing 30 billion baht. The initiative aims to transform these areas into new economic hubs and enhance service quality and safety. Pavina Chariyathitipong, Acting President of AOT and Deputy Executive Vice …
The story AOT opens 30 billion baht airport land for private investment as seen on Thaiger News.
AOT opens 30 billion baht airport land for private investmentLegacy The Airports of Thailand (AOT) is inviting private investment to develop 2,500 rai of land surrounding six major airports, with an estimated project value nearing 30 billion baht.
The initiative aims to transform these areas into new economic hubs and enhance service quality and safety. Pavina Chariyathitipong, Acting President of AOT and Deputy Executive Vice President of Engineering and Construction, announced the AOT Property Showcase: The Six Pillars of Opportunity event.
This event seeks to collaborate with investors to explore business opportunities in commercial spaces around Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports.
The development spans 46 plots, totalling over 2,512 rai, with a projected investment of more than 28.8 billion baht, available for long-term lease agreements of up to 30 years on both leasehold and freehold land.
The investment opportunities include logistics centres, warehouses, hotels, conference centres, shopping malls, hospitals, sports facilities, residential projects, and modern smart cities, all strategically located near major roads and airports and integrated with national infrastructure.
Photo courtesy of KhaoSod These areas are poised to become new business and tourism hubs, aligning with the government’s vision to position Thailand as an Aviation Hub in Asia.
The project is expected to significantly contribute to establishing a new economic centre across various regions in the country, creating both direct and indirect employment, enhancing the foundational economic value, and improving the competitive capacity of Thai airports globally. AOT owns 73% of the leasehold land from the Treasury Department and the remaining freehold land.
At Suvarnabhumi Airport, four plots totalling 548 rai are earmarked for development within the airport’s prime area, close to public transport and major roads. These are ideal for a Medical Hub & Wellness Centre, Convention Hall & Exhibition Centre, Hotel & Residential Area, and a Logistics & Transportation Hub.
Photo courtesy of ACI Asia Pacific Don Mueang Airport features a commercial space of 12,000 square metres with a three-storey parking facility, supporting over 1,000 parking spaces, with plans for hotel and additional parking facility development.
Chiang Mai Airport offers three prime plots totalling 19 rai, located on the Chiang Mai – Hang Dong road, within 13 minutes of the terminal, suitable for a Hotel & Residential Area, Office & Business Centre, or a Commercial & Lifestyle Complex.
Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai Airport provides a significant 762 rai plot within the airport vicinity, five minutes from the terminal, ideal for a Hotel & Residential Area, Office & Business Centre, Commercial & Lifestyle Complex, Premium Outlet, or Logistics & Transportation Hub.
Photo courtesy of Domestic Flights Thailand Phuket Airport features seven prominent plots totalling 192 rai, close to the main road leading into Phuket city, six minutes from the terminal, supporting diverse development activities such as a Hotel & Residential Area, Convention Hall & Exhibition Centre, or a Medical Hub & Wellness Centre.
Hat Yai Airport offers four main plots and 15 subplots totalling 502 rai, available for development inside and outside the airport, five minutes from the terminal, suitable for a Hotel & Residential Area, Office & Business Centre, Commercial & Lifestyle Complex, or Logistics & Transportation Hub.
Sirot Doungrat, Deputy Executive Vice President of Business Development and Marketing at AOT, stated that rental rates will range from 4 baht to 240 baht per square wah per month. AOT promises necessary infrastructure, flexible business models, and direct facilitation without intermediaries. AOT will also conduct Property Tours to provide potential investors with a comprehensive understanding of the site, projects, and rental rates, fostering informed investment decisions, reported KhaoSod.
The story AOT opens 30 billion baht airport land for private investment as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Aviation Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894449 - Ratchaburi man, 79, shoots son-in-law amid inheritance dispute
A 79 year old Ratchaburi man allegedly shot and killed his son-in-law following a recurring property inheritance dispute believed to be the motive. The incident took place yesterday, April 29, in Ratchaburi province, where Police Colonel Phasaphong Monta of Pak Tho Police Station received a report concerning the fatal shooting. Upon arrival at a house in …
The story Ratchaburi man, 79, shoots son-in-law amid inheritance dispute as seen on Thaiger News.
Ratchaburi man, 79, shoots son-in-law amid inheritance disputeLegacy A 79 year old Ratchaburi man allegedly shot and killed his son-in-law following a recurring property inheritance dispute believed to be the motive.
The incident took place yesterday, April 29, in Ratchaburi province, where Police Colonel Phasaphong Monta of Pak Tho Police Station received a report concerning the fatal shooting.
Upon arrival at a house in Moo 5, Yang Hak subdistrict, officers discovered the body of 72 year old Nat Phetmanee, dressed in a blue T-shirt, grey trousers, and boots. He was found dead with a severe gunshot wound to the head.
Standing nearby was Boonmee Chaluaysrimueang, the owner of the house, who surrendered to police holding a shotgun and several rounds of ammunition. A shell casing was also found at the scene and collected as evidence before Boonmee was taken for questioning at Pak Tho Police Station.
The victim’s wife, who is also the suspect’s daughter, recounted that she and her husband had gone to the farm that morning to assist her father with pesticide spraying. They planned to leave later for Ratchaburi Hospital.
After returning home to pack for their trip to Ratchaburi City, she noticed her father angrily following them on a motorbike. Assuming it was his usual temper, she went inside the house while her husband remained outside.
Suddenly, she heard a gunshot and rushed outside to see her father holding the gun, who told her, “Your husband is dead.” She was left in shock and called the police.
It is suspected that the incident stemmed from ongoing family tensions, particularly due to the father’s reluctance to have anyone interfere with his property, fearing it might be taken away. This apprehension had previously caused friction between him and his wife, who eventually left the house to avoid conflicts, potentially contributing to his stress, reported KhaoSod.
Nopparat Jansamang, assistant village chief of Moo 5, Yang Hak, who also attended the scene, mentioned that after the shooting, the suspect returned to the farm to retrieve agricultural equipment without attempting to flee. Police have detained him for further investigation as they proceed with legal action.
Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The story Ratchaburi man, 79, shoots son-in-law amid inheritance dispute as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Crime Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894464 - Chinese men accuse Thai official of extortion and illegal watch seizure
Two Chinese nationals accused Thai Customs officials of extortion and unlawful luxury watch seizure at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok on August 4 last year. The alleged corruption by the Thai officials came to light after the news-focused X (formerly Twitter) account, Red Skull, shared the story on April 28. The account reportedly obtained the details from …
The story Chinese men accuse Thai official of extortion and illegal watch seizure as seen on Thaiger News.
Chinese men accuse Thai official of extortion and illegal watch seizureLegacy Two Chinese nationals accused Thai Customs officials of extortion and unlawful luxury watch seizure at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok on August 4 last year.
The alleged corruption by the Thai officials came to light after the news-focused X (formerly Twitter) account, Red Skull, shared the story on April 28. The account reportedly obtained the details from a man whose two Chinese friends were allegedly victims of the incident.
According to Red Skull, the two Chinese men arrived in Thailand with two Rolex watches they had bought in Macao. Their intention was to take the watches to the Erawan Shrine, near the popular shopping mall CentralWorld, to conduct an auspicious ceremony according to their beliefs.
However, the men were stopped by Customs officials, who informed them that they had illegally brought the watches into the country without declaring them or paying the required taxes.
The officials allegedly demanded a fine of 300,000 baht in cash, which was reportedly paid in a bathroom, raising suspicions.
Furthermore, the watches were not returned. The men were allegedly coerced into signing documents transferring ownership of the watches to the country.
When the Chinese nationals later requested the return of their watches, the officials reportedly refused and instead instructed them to repurchase the items at prices set by the Thai Customs Department.
The two men claim that they attempted to file a complaint with the department but it was not accepted. They subsequently filed a complaint with the Administrative Court of Thailand, though no progress was made.
Red Skull also shared screenshots of a WeChat conversation between one of the Chinese men and an alleged Thai official. In the chat, the supposed official requested cash payments and reassured the man that everything would be fine once payment was made.
The Chinese man reportedly replied that he and his friend lacked the money and preferred to go through legal channels without paying a bribe. However, the alleged official continued to urge payment, promising a smooth resolution.
In response, the Thai Customs Department issued an official statement on April 29 via its Facebook page, insisting that its officials acted lawfully and followed regulations.
Photo by uskarp via Canva According to the statement, the Chinese tourists proceeded through the Nothing to Declare channel despite carrying two brand new luxury watches, indicating an intent to evade tax.
Officials reportedly escorted them for further inspection. One of the Chinese nationals was allegedly speaking on the phone throughout the encounter.
Photo by pimonpim via Canva A man claiming to be a government official later approached customs staff, urging them to drop the legal proceedings and allow the men to pay the tax before release. The department stated that its officials refused the request and continued with standard procedures.
At one point, one of the Chinese men asked to use the toilet and was granted permission. A second Thai man, also claiming to be a government official, allegedly intervened again to seek the release of the two travellers but customs staff reportedly declined.
Photo by mbbirdy via Canva The department maintained that the Chinese men voluntarily offered the watches as state property to end the legal proceedings and were not coerced or threatened.
As of now, no further investigation has been launched into the identities of the individuals claiming to be government officials. The Administrative Court of Thailand has yet to state the matter.
The story Chinese men accuse Thai official of extortion and illegal watch seizure as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Bangkok Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894760 - Man and homemade boat vanish after crash in Nonthaburi canal
A 51 year old man, who had crafted a two-section boat for racing, took it out for a leisurely ride in a canal and tragically disappeared along with the vessel. Witnesses reported seeing the boat speeding and crashing into a pier. Yesterday, April 29, at 2pm, police from Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi province, responded to …
The story Man and homemade boat vanish after crash in Nonthaburi canal as seen on Thaiger News.
Man and homemade boat vanish after crash in Nonthaburi canalLegacy A 51 year old man, who had crafted a two-section boat for racing, took it out for a leisurely ride in a canal and tragically disappeared along with the vessel.
Witnesses reported seeing the boat speeding and crashing into a pier. Yesterday, April 29, at 2pm, police from Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi province, responded to a report of a boat crash near Wat Salikho pier in Bang Phlap subdistrict.
The rescue team from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation was called to search for the missing driver and boat. Upon investigation, it was found that the crash occurred at a private residence’s metal pier, which bore collision marks and remnants of the boat.
Roj, who operates a commercial two-section boat and witnessed the incident, recounted that while he was dropping off passengers, he saw the boat approach the pier at an angle and crash violently, causing it to gradually sink. He attempted to assist, but it was too late, as both the boat and its driver vanished underwater.
Nuttawut, a 30 year old man, identified himself as the son of the missing man. He explained that the two-section boat was made by his father for racing purposes, reported KhaoSod.
On the day of the incident, his father intended only to take the boat out for a casual ride, not to test its racing capabilities. Police have obtained CCTV footage capturing the boat’s collision with the pier. It is suspected that the driver lost consciousness and sank with the boat. Legal proceedings and further investigation will follow.
Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In similar news, a holiday speedboat carrying British tourists on a scenic island-hopping trip took a terrifying turn when it crashed into trees in southern Thailand, causing panic among passengers.
The accident happened on January 3, during a trip between Koh Lipe and Koh Lanta. Alarming video footage captured the moment passengers screamed and held onto their seats as the boat veered off course, careened onto land, and tore through a mangrove forest.
The story Man and homemade boat vanish after crash in Nonthaburi canal as seen on Thaiger News.
30 April 30 2025Thailand Newshttps://thethaiger.com/?p=894466