ไฟไหม้รถเบนซ์ตำรวจยศใหญ่กลางสี่แยก หนีตายรอดหวุดหวิด

ทลายเครือข่าย ต่างด้าวทำงานใน จ.ระยอง ใช้วีซ่าท่องเที่ยว กองบัญชาการตำรวจท่องเที่ยว (บช.ทท.) ภายใต้นโยบายของ พล.ต.อ.กิตติ์รัฐ พันธุ์เพ็ชร์ ผบ.ตร. และการอำนวยการของ พล.ต.ท.ศักย์ศิรา เผือกอ่ำ ผบช.ทท. ได้สั่งการให้เจ้าหน้าที่เร่งกวดขันจับกุมชาวต่างชาติที่ลักลอบเข้ามาทำงานผิดกฎหมาย ซึ่งกระทบต่อระบบแรงงานไทยและอาจเชื่อมโยงอาชญากรรมข้ามชาติ ภายใต้การสั่งการของ พล.ต.ต.พงษ์สยาม มีขันทอง, พล.ต.ต.กฤษณ์ วาฤทธิ์, พล.ต.ต.ม.ล.สันธิกร วรวรรณ รอง ผบช.ทท., พ.ต.อ.แมน รถทอง ผกก.สืบสวน บช.ทท., พร้อมทีมสืบสวน นำโดย พ.ต.ท.กฤตพร แสงสุระ, ร.ต.อ.ภัทรพล ชูชื่อ, ร.ต.อ.วรินทร์ ศรีมนัสรัตน์ ลงพื้นที่เป้าหมายในโครงการก่อสร้างพื้นที่นิคมอุตสาหกรรม อ.นิคมพัฒนา จ.ระยอง ผลการปฏิบัติ สามารถจับกุมผู้ต้องหาได้รวม 34 ราย แบ่งเป็นชาวจีน 7 ราย และชาวเมียนมาร์ 27 ราย โดยทั้งหมดใช้วีซ่าท่องเที่ยวแฝงตัวเข้ามาทำงานผิดกฎหมาย ผู้ต้องหาบางรายให้การว่า: • เข้ามาไทยได้เพียง 1 […]

Thai citizens shelter in emergency accommodation after a Cambodian rocket attack in a disputed zone. Although several governments have issued travel warnings, none has advised against visiting Thailand and Cambodia. The British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office simply warns travellers not to go within 50 kms of the border in the at-risk provinces. The most popular destinations – Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin – are hundreds of miles from the scene of any shootings or panic. Cambodia’s main attractions in Phnom Penh and the famous archaeological site at Siem Reap are similarly free from border-related violence. Few western vacationers to Thailand include border regions in their holiday itinerary, except to see the remains of 1,000 year-old temple ruins such as the magnificent Preah Vihear. These are closed anyway from either side for the duration of the conflict. Most of the land border’s 800 kms are not under dispute. There is separately a longstanding warning by British authorities not to visit three deep-south Thai provinces with Muslim secessionist movements. They are rarely visited by holidaymakers and irrelevant to the current crisis. Travellers intending to visit both Thailand and Cambodia should bear in mind that all land border crossings between the two countries are currently sealed. Although they occasionally open to let through emergency cases, such as the sick or young students, international tourists are banned from crossing. Air schedules between the two countries are reported as normal, but flights are said to be heavily booked. If the ongoing conflict were to get worse, air travel between the protagonists could be compromised in tat-for-tat name calling. Thai citizens shelter in emergency accommodation after a Cambodian rocket att Pattaya immigration lawyer Jessataporn Bunnag said, “Most western tourists coming to Thailand, including all Brits, now receive 60 days visa-exempt on arrival with the offer to extend a further month at local immigration. Thus there is no need for them to go on border hops or visa runs to neighboring Cambodia.” He added that all international visitors should fill in the online form Thailand Digital Arrival Card not more than three days before arriving. Border rows between the two neighbors go back over 100 years when disputed maps were drawn up by French colonialists who then ruled Cambodia but not Thailand. Over the years, 200 people have been killed or injured in periodic flareups at sensitive spots which mostly include temple ruins. Whilst Cambodia invariably seeks international rulings in its favour, Thailand’s position is that territorial disputes should be settled by the two parties alone. Both countries are members of the regional trading block ASEAN, but the organization almost never becomes seriously involved in disputes between members. Both the United States and China have offered to mediate the current issue, but there is unease in both countries and beyond about appealing to divergent superpowers. The most likely outcome at present seems to be a mutual withdrawal to perceived lines of control. Thailand and Cambodia have too much in common, economically and culturally, to declare war. Assuming, of course, that insanity doesn’t break out.

Narrow escape — A high-ranking police officer fled his burning Mercedes-Benz just in time after the engine burst into flames at a major Pattaya intersection. PATTAYA, Thailand – A white Mercedes-Benz sedan erupted into flames early Thursday morning, July 25, at the Rong Mai Kheed intersection on Sukhumvit Road in North Pattaya, prompting a swift response from rescue and fire crews. The fire, reported at 2:46 AM, drew emergency responders from the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Center and Pattaya City Fire Department. Upon arrival, they found the luxury vehicle engulfed in smoke and flames pouring from under the hood. Using chemical extinguishers, firefighters were able to control and extinguish the blaze within 10 minutes. Inside the vehicle, responders discovered a high-ranking police uniform bearing the rank of Police Colonel. The unidentified driver, who reportedly serves as a senior officer in Chonburi province, managed to escape the vehicle before it was fully engulfed and was uninjured. However, he refused to provide his name or speak to the press at the scene. Fire investigators confirmed that the fire had been fully extinguished and posed no further risk of reignition. Officers from Banglamung Police Station have been tasked with investigating the cause of the fire. The case will be forwarded to the Region 2 Forensic Science Division in Chonburi for further analysis.

Swift Response — Jomtien municipal officers assist a distressed, shirtless woman found wandering Soi Boonkanchana 2, ensuring her safety and dignity. PATTAYA, Thailand – Officials from the Jomtien municipal enforcement unit responded swiftly after receiving a public report about a woman showing signs of mental distress, wandering shirtless along Boonkanchana Soi 2. Acting with care and urgency, officers brought the woman to the Jomtien municipal center to help calm her down and provide her with proper clothing. She was later referred for further support. Pattaya City Hall emphasized that municipal teams are also ready to assist intoxicated tourists who may be unable to return safely to their accommodations — including helping them and their vehicles get home safely. Authorities urged the public not to ignore such situations. Better safe than sorry — even one call could prevent serious harm to the individual or others. Incidents involving vulnerable people in distress should never be allowed to pass without intervention, as some may unintentionally endanger themselves or nearby passersby. Residents and visitors are encouraged to call the Pattaya City Hall hotline at 1337, available 24/7, to report emergencies or request assistance. Compassion in Action — Pattaya officials calm the woman and provide clothing before referring her for further care. Need Help? — Pattaya City Hall urges the public to report urgent welfare cases via hotline 1337, available 24/7.

Border Alert — Martial law imposed in parts of Chanthaburi and Trat as Thai military cites Cambodian armed incursions, according to a signed declaration by Vice Admiral Apichart Supprasert. CHANTHABURI/TRAT, Thailand — The Chanthaburi-Trat Border Defense Command officially declared martial law in selected districts of Chanthaburi and Trat provinces, citing escalating cross-border threats from Cambodia. According to the signed declaration by Vice Admiral Apichart Supprasert, Commander of the Chanthaburi-Trat Border Defense Command, the measure was invoked under Section 176 (Paragraph 2) of the Thai Constitution, in conjunction with Section 4 of the Martial Law Act of 1914, to protect national sovereignty and public safety. The districts now under martial law are: Chanthaburi Province: Mueang Chanthaburi, Tha Mai, Makham, Laem Sing, Kaeng Hang Maeo, Na Yai Am, and Khao Khitchakut Trat Province: Khao Saming District The military cited ongoing armed incursions and use of force by Cambodia along the Thai border, stating that the situation necessitates urgent deployment of military, police, civil defense forces, and citizen cooperation to defend Thai territory from external threats. This decision aligns with prior authority from the 2006 announcement by the Council for Democratic Reform under Constitutional Monarchy, which had declared martial law nationwide—later partially lifted and reapplied selectively in certain areas per royal decree dated December 31, 2007. The new martial law decree is effective immediately from July 25, 2025, until further notice.

Due to unrest along the Thai-Cambodian border, several tourist sites across seven provinces are temporarily closed or not recommended for visits. (File Photo) PATTAYA, Thailand – Due to the ongoing conflict and unrest along the Thai-Cambodian border, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has issued an urgent advisory for travelers. Several tourist attractions across seven provinces bordering Cambodia are temporarily closed or currently not recommended for visits due to safety concerns. Affected Areas by Province Ubon Ratchathani Province Avoid: Phu Chong – Na Yoi National Park (Na Chaluai District) — While not officially closed, travel to this park is discouraged. Kaeng Lamduan (Nam Yuen District) — Visiting is not recommended. Chong An Ma Checkpoint (Nam Yuen District). Surin Province Avoid: Prasat Ta Muen Group (Phanom Dong Rak District) — Including Prasat Ta Muen Thom, Prasat Ta Muen Tod, and Prasat Ta Muen. Prasat Ta Kwai (Phanom Dong Rak District). Prasat Ban Pluang (Prasat District). Prasat Phum Pon (Sangkha District). Chong Chom (Kap Choeng District). Phanom Swai Forest Park (Mueang Surin District). Border areas in Phanom Dong Rak District.   Sisaket Province Avoid: Khao Phra Wihan National Park (Pha Mo I Daeng) (Kantharalak District). Chong Sa-ngam (Phu Sing District). Border areas of Kantharalak and Phu Sing districts. Buriram Province Avoid: Chong Sai Taku (Ban Kruat District). Ta Phraya National Park (Lahan Sai District). Border areas of Ban Kruat and Lahan Sai districts.   Sa Kaeo Province Avoid: Ban Khlong Luek Checkpoint and Rong Kluea Market (Aranyaprathet District). Prasat Sdok Kok Thom (Khok Sung District). Border areas of Aranyaprathet and Khlong Hat districts. Chanthaburi Province Avoid: Ban Laem Checkpoint (Pong Nam Ron District). Ban Phak Kad Permanent Border Checkpoint. Border areas of Pong Nam Ron and Soi Dao districts.   Trat Province Avoid: Ban Hat Lek Border Checkpoint (Khlong Yai District). Ban Muen Dan Checkpoint (Bo Rai District). Ban Ma Muang Checkpoint (Bo Rai District). Updated 24 July 2025: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will continuously monitor the situation and provide updates on tourist attractions and safety conditions in the affected areas. Travelers are strongly advised to stay informed, avoid high-risk zones, and follow local authorities’ guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Tourists may look to Vietnam as an alternative, but few find a true match for Pattaya’s vibrant nightlife, lively beach scenes, colorful festivals — or even the warm smiles and seductive charm of the bar girls. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – As frustrations grow over rising bar fines, taxi fare hikes, and changing visa policies in Thailand, some tourists and long-term visitors are considering alternatives like Vietnam. However, those expecting to find “another Pattaya” across the border may soon be disappointed. Vietnam has attracted a steady flow of curious travelers, including retirees who have relocated after years in Thailand. Early reports from these newcomers are cautiously optimistic—highlighting a slower pace of life, fewer regulations, and generally lower living costs. Yet many who tried living in Vietnam have returned unimpressed. Despite its unique charm, the nightlife, convenience, and vibrant energy found in Pattaya are simply unmatched. Pattaya’s lively beach scenes, bustling events, and vibrant fairs offer a sensory mix that few destinations — including Vietnam — can match. From colorful festivals and international concerts to buzzing night markets and beachfront fireworks, the city pulses with life around the clock. Add in the famously warm smiles, the seductive charm of the bar girls, irresistible street food, and thumping beats from late-night venues, and it’s easy to see why this city has remained magnetic for decades. For better or worse, there is only one Pattaya — and for many, nowhere else comes close. Meanwhile, dissatisfaction is growing across Pattaya’s tourist economy, signaling clear areas where improvements are urgently needed. Lady drinks in some bars now cost over two hundred baht each, placing heavy pressure on working girls to meet high sales quotas just to make a living. The traditional beer bar model—once known for its affordability and friendly atmosphere—is increasingly seen as outdated and unfair, affecting both customers and staff alike. In popular areas like Soi 6 and Buakhao, soaring bar fines—sometimes going over the top before midnight—only add to visitors’ frustrations, while some venues quietly offer lower rates, revealing a market struggling with uneven demand and desperation. If the Thai government and local authorities want to reverse this trend and restore confidence among foreign tourists, urgent steps must be taken to regulate pricing fairly, support workers’ livelihoods, and ensure Pattaya remains a welcoming and affordable destination. To make matters worse, the baht’s strength against foreign currencies like the euro and pound has dulled Thailand’s affordability. The return to 30-day tourist visas for many Europeans is further pushing visitors to reconsider their options. This has left many feeling less welcome, especially as policy changes seem to favor BRICS-aligned countries while Western tourists are merely tolerated. Still, not everyone is ready to jump ship. Some suggest skipping the bar scene entirely — opting for a few brisk walks to shed the beer belly, practicing self-discipline, and saving that stack of grey notes for something else. With motorbike taxi fares climbing, even getting around town feels pricier than it used to. Suggestions like closing certain beer arcades to motorbikes after 8 p.m. and introducing fairer taxi meters hint at simple, practical ways the city could start winning back tourist loyalty. Yet deeper challenges remain — rising numbers of budget travelers from conservative countries, the growing saturation of kebab shops and barber salons, and lingering confusion over cannabis laws and alcohol regulations all add to the fatigue. Visa headaches, war jitters near the Cambodian border, and nightly news stories don’t help Pattaya’s image either. Some say it’s already too late and that Pattaya needs a complete reset—better business models, fairer wages, and more realistic pricing—to stay vibrant and appealing. Others believe the city still has the potential to reclaim its charm and bounce back. Though places like Vietnam or the Philippines may not offer the same experience as Pattaya, every effort counts to keep tourists eager to fly in and visit. Ultimately, supply and demand will decide the future. For now, despite its challenges, Thailand remains the best option for many who have tried their luck elsewhere. The complaints are loud — about prices, policies, and crowds — yet the flights to Pattaya keep coming. Whatever its flaws, the city still knows how to cast a spell. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin)

Pattaya Beach Road is a major spot for road crossing challenges, as foreign tourists—often in groups—take their chances while some rushing motorbikes show little respect for the well-designated zebra crossings. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Navigating Pattaya’s streets often feels like a gamble, especially with motorbikes weaving unpredictably through traffic. Despite ongoing efforts to improve pedestrian safety, many remain wary as riders frequently ignore rules meant to protect everyone. Helmetless riders, for example, face fines of 2,000 baht, yet enforcement can be inconsistent. It’s common to see motorbikes speeding the wrong way down one-way streets or overloaded with passengers. These behaviors mainly involve locals, but tourists often bear the brunt of fines, sparking frustration and calls for fairer policing. Many argue that cracking down more rigorously on local offenders would set a better example and improve safety for all. Safety measures like flashing pedestrian crossing lights have been introduced, but their effectiveness is often short-lived. Drivers frustrated by traffic jams routinely cut across zebra crossings even when tourists or pedestrians are on them, ignoring the rules and putting lives at risk. Sidewalks are frequently used by vehicles to bypass congestion, further endangering those on foot. Without consistent enforcement of these laws, such safety initiatives risk becoming mere formalities. The problem isn’t limited to motorcyclists; jaywalking pedestrians also add to the chaos. Without firm, impartial law enforcement on both sides, the dangerous cycle continues, making road crossings in Pattaya a nerve-wracking challenge. Pattaya Beach Road is especially problematic, with groups of foreign tourists often taking their chances while motorbikes rush by, showing little respect for clearly marked zebra crossings. Sadly, it’s not unusual to see pedestrians get hit even at lawful crossings, with the green walk signals clearly on their side. Holidays meant to be relaxing can suddenly turn miserable when a member of a group or family is injured in a road accident — often due to unfamiliar traffic habits. What should be carefree hotel leisure can quickly become hospital admissions. Until authorities commit to enforcing traffic laws fairly and consistently — holding all riders and drivers accountable — pedestrians will be left to navigate the chaos, hoping caution is enough to keep them safe. Pedestrians still at risk as inconsistent traffic enforcement leaves chaos unchecked — until all riders and drivers are held equally accountable, those on foot are left to rely on caution alone to survive the streets.

Despite border clashes, Pattaya and Thailand’s top destinations remain safe and fully open to visitors. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued a travel advisory urging travelers to stay updated on developments along the Thai–Cambodian border, where armed clashes have intensified in recent days. While tensions continue in the eastern border provinces, Thai authorities emphasized that the rest of the country remains safe and fully open to travelers. Tourists have begun expressing concern, urging both nations to agree to an immediate ceasefire. “We want to visit Thailand, but not with travel advisories hanging over us,” one international visitor said. “Ceasefire, and tourists will go. You want war, you’ll have to pay the price of tourists not going.” In light of the situation, airlines are closely monitoring demand and may deploy larger aircraft to accommodate Thai citizens returning from Cambodia. Travelers who wish to change their flight dates or times are advised to contact their airlines directly. The CAAT also reminds passengers to ensure all travel documents are prepared in advance to streamline airport procedures. As of July 24, all border checkpoints between Thailand and Cambodia have been closed due to the escalating conflict. Cross-border land transport is temporarily suspended, except for humanitarian efforts and repatriation missions. Meanwhile, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has reassured international visitors that popular tourist destinations—including Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Krabi—are unaffected by the unrest and continue to operate as usual. Pattaya, in particular, remains calm and safe, with local authorities maintaining heightened awareness and readiness while welcoming tourists without disruption. The Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh is providing updates for citizens in Cambodia, and travelers are encouraged to follow official guidance and stay informed. “Ceasefire, and tourists will go” — Foreign travelers call for peace as border tensions threaten Thailand’s image.