Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin calls for continued high-level surveillance after anthrax infections confirmed in Mukdahan. PATTAYA, Thailand – Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has ordered intensified surveillance and response measures following the confirmation of three anthrax cases in Mukdahan province, including one fatality. The remaining two patients are currently being treated at Mukdahan and Dontan hospitals. A total of 636 individuals were identified as having contact with the patients, with 538 already completing the 7-day observation period for skin and gastrointestinal symptoms. The remaining 98 are still under monitoring but are being treated preventatively with Doxycycline for 7 days. Minister Somsak emphasized that close monitoring must continue even beyond the pathogen’s incubation period to ensure public confidence and safety. Anthrax, a zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, is not known to spread from human to human but can be contracted through contact with infected animals or contaminated environments such as soil and water. The spores are highly resilient, capable of surviving extreme conditions for decades, especially in areas where infected animal carcasses have been buried. Authorities have warned the public to consume only properly cooked beef and to avoid raw or undercooked meat. In addition, Phrae province has reported an outbreak of Streptococcus suis infection, commonly referred to as “raw pork disease.” So far, 14 people have fallen ill and 2 have died, with most cases linked to the consumption of raw pork dishes like larb moo. The ministry is urging those with symptoms such as high fever and muscle pain—especially with a history of consuming or handling raw pork—to seek immediate medical attention and inform doctors of their dietary risks. The disease can cause permanent hearing loss and other severe complications. Somsak confirmed that inter-agency cooperation is ongoing to contain the outbreak and reassure the public that the spread can be controlled. Regular updates will be provided as the situation evolves. Three anthrax cases detected, including one death, with 636 people tracked for potential exposure — 98 still under watch.

Romance or Rip-Off? Pattaya’s foreign-Thai love stories spark fiery debate. (File photo – Jomtien Beach in May) PATTAYA, Thailand – In Pattaya, a city globally known for its beaches, nightlife, and romantic entanglements, a debate is raging both online and on the ground: Are foreign-Thai relationships built on love—or are they just another economic transaction? What began as a cultural curiosity has evolved into a polarizing topic, especially among long-term foreign residents and regular tourists. Some expats claim to have found genuine love in Thailand. Others paint a more cynical picture—of relationships that start with affection and end in financial exploitation, with courts and systems offering little protection for foreign partners. “Yes, many corrupt Thai women and their families target older men and steal. Thailand needs to do something. It’s shameful how the Thai people think it’s okay to do this,” wrote one former expat who claims to have lived in Thailand for six years and witnessed more than 100 cases of alleged financial betrayal in just one city. Others, however, are not so quick to sympathize with foreign men caught in such situations. “It takes two hands to clap, bozo,” one commenter retorted. “How about you old farangs stop being such horny s-expats that pounce on anything that wears a skirt?” The dynamic is not new, but in recent years—with rising social media exposure and increasing migration of both retirees and short-term visitors—the stories have become more visible, often with a dark twist. “If you’re that gullible, then you deserve everything you get,” wrote another. “A fool and his money are soon parted.” While some blame age-gap relationships, others note that experience doesn’t always equal safety. “The older the woman, the greater her scamming skill and level of contempt—if that’s the path she chooses,” said one user, suggesting that manipulation can come in many forms, and not always from the younger party. Cultural expectations, language barriers, visa restrictions, and legal limitations all add to the tension. Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand, and many relationships falter when finances, property, or retirement funds come into play. “Farangs are not citizens,” one post bluntly stated. “Thailand is a host, and you are simply a guest. Get that through your head.” Some suggest the entire situation could be avoided with a little more realism and a lot less naiveté. “Things that can be rented—don’t buy. If it flies, floats, or f—s…,” joked one long-time observer of expat life in Pattaya. Still, the debate continues. Is it exploitation, mutual convenience, or just heartbreak with a tropical backdrop? “Let’s face it, the issue is as old as time,” concluded one voice. “It’s just that it happens more in Thailand.” As for whether anything will change? Most commenters seem to agree: not likely. The ecosystem in Pattaya—of fantasy, escape, and blurred lines—remains as alive as ever.

Would the Thai government listen if expats asked: “What more must Pattaya do to attract high-value travelers?” PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya has long been a magnet for sun seekers, retirees, nightlife lovers, and beachgoers. But as Thailand aims to pivot towards attracting “high-value tourists” — those who spend more, stay longer, and behave better — the question arises: is the government ready to listen to the foreign community already living here, many of whom have been observing the city’s transformation for years? If they did listen, they’d hear plenty — and not all of it would be easy to digest. One expat suggests: “Maybe challenge the three-tier pricing at most tourist attractions, get motorbikes and traffic laws under control, actually arrest and confiscate drunk drivers’ cars, tourist or local, get pedestrian crossings and general parking in the city under control. Red traffic lights mean stop, so stop and strongly fine those that don’t! Spring clean the city and put flower planters everywhere so it looks inviting. Eradicate brown envelopes. Sorry, just writing down some pipe dreams for the boys in brown shirts.” It’s a scathing, if sincere, call for reform, expressing frustration at inconsistent law enforcement, corruption, and visual blight in areas expected to appeal to affluent travelers. Another voice adds sarcasm, with a stinging edge: “Loud Indian music piped everywhere 24/7 would attract more quality tourists.” Some comments get more specific about the perceived shift in visitor demographics: “Quit bowing down to the Chinese and offer the western countries more incentives to come here.” “Soi Buakhao area in Pattaya is too crowded with old poor Europeans and Brits. Doesn’t look nice.” “Place is now full of Indians who all appear to have no money?” “Overtourism and exploiting Western tourists has backfired.” One story underscores the issue of misaligned urban planning with investment: “A fast-food brand built a new franchise on Beach Road in Jomtien. It’s really nice, obviously very expensive to build. The area around it has been a stinky hole ever since it opened. The beachfront has no walkways; it’s all construction garbage and dirt. There’s nothing to entice people to get some food and then go spread a mat on the sidewalk. It’ll probably close before Pattaya gets around to finishing the walkway.” Then there’s the safety and image issue — repeatedly highlighted by concerned residents: “Who wants to come to Pattaya? All I see is prostituting, alcoholics, fights, stabbings and murders daily on the news — not to mention muggings, thefts, and corruption. Who really thinks it’s a good place to bring family and friends? Or yes, let’s invite groups of guys who love drugs, alcohol and prostitution then complain respectful tourists won’t come. WAKE UP THAI GOVERNMENT — not everything is about weed.” And what about immigration and visa policies? “Enforce laws and immigration rules. Drop tourists’ visa back to a less abusive place. Limit the daily barrage of embarrassing incidents.” “Also, a one-month visa exempt is more than enough. If you want to stay longer, just get a visa… it’s easy and not expensive.” “There’s a few countries I’d change to 30 days a year honestly. It seems like the same groups cause most of the issues.” Some commenters acknowledge that the problem may go beyond Thailand’s control: “I think there are less tourists from the West etc… this is therefore not something that Thailand can fix. The West is focused on reducing tourism.” And then there’s sheer cynicism: “More chance of platting fog than getting a robust strategy implemented.” “They get what they deserve treating foreigners badly.” “Sure, it’s all because of mistranslations. Got to be the reason.” “You’re frequenting the wrong neighborhood.” While not every opinion is constructive — and some teeter into xenophobic territory — the core message is clear: the foreign community wants a cleaner, safer, better-managed Pattaya, with fairer pricing and proper law enforcement. They’re asking for more than luxury malls and light shows. They want accountability, order, and a city that respects its visitors and residents alike. The question remains: Is anyone in government really listening — or are these just digital cries into the void?

Confused foreign tourist sparks shoplifting scare in PattayaLegacyA department store in South Pattaya was thrown into chaos after an outburst by a foreign tourist sparked a theft scare. Pattaya City Police rushed to the scene yesterday, May 5, after alarmed staff and shoppers reported a suspected shoplifter behaving erratically. But when officers arrived, they found the man, a foreign tourist, wasn’t stealing, just struggling with a mental health crisis. Witnesses said he was shouting and aimlessly wandering around the store, prompting fears of criminal intent. However, no theft took place, Pattaya News reported. Officers quickly assessed the situation and determined the man was in need of medical attention rather than handcuffs. Rescue teams were called in to transport him to Pattaya Hospital for urgent psychiatric care. “This case highlights the need for thorough investigation to avoid misunderstandings,” said Police Colonel Anek Sarathongyoo, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police, who reassured locals of their continued commitment to public safety. Picture courtesy of Pattaya Police Foreign bad behaviour in Pattaya is nothing new. Last week, two British men ended up paying 15,000 baht in compensation after a road spat turned nasty outside a Pattaya convenience store. The duo nearly collided with a Thai motorcycle taxi rider, who initially let it slide. But tensions reignited when one of the Brits lobbed rubbish at him from the car window. The rider followed them to the shop, and a heated scuffle broke out. Footage of the incident went viral after being posted by local page เจ๊มอย v+ (Jamoi v+). Police confirmed both foreigners were British nationals. Meanwhile, in another cause of foreigners behaving badly, a lusty Chinese couple were caught red-handed, and red-faced, after being spotted having full-on sex on a public footpath near the infamous Walking Street. The raunchy pair even filmed the act for pornographic content, later telling police they’d done it in “several other countries” too. A horrified security guard took snaps of the steamy session and alerted Mueang Pattaya Police, who swiftly shut down the street-side smut. The couple are now facing charges for public indecency and illegal filming. For emergencies, contact Pattaya City Police on 082-7999-111 or dial 191, available 24/7. The name and nationality of the foreign man involved in the department store incident have not been released. The story Confused foreign tourist sparks shoplifting scare in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

Ice and menace: Pattaya methamphetamine bust causes mayhemLegacyA tip-off from fed-up locals led to a major methamphetamine bust in Pattaya this week but things turned truly wild when a raving suspect attacked civilians, claimed to be a cop’s son, and sparked a full-blown panic in the streets. Pattaya City police yesterday May 5, swooped on a known drug hotspot in Jomtien Soi 3 after residents provided photos and reports of rampant drug activity in the area. The sting, spearheaded by Police Colonel Anek Sarathongyoo and executed by Police Lieutenant Anek Prasitboon, Deputy Inspector of Investigations, saw undercover officers purchase 0.20 grammes of crystal meth, known locally as “ice,” from 28 year old suspected dealer Sutee Petchamlerd. Once the transaction was complete, officers moved in and arrested Sutee on the spot. A search revealed he was carrying an extra 0.59 grammes of ice and a meth pill. But the crackdown didn’t stop there. Police conducted random drug tests on bystanders nearby, resulting in four more people testing positive for meth use: 42 year old Narachan Thongpha, 37 year old Atthaphon Sriphako, 27 year old Thanawat Makaew, and 39 year old Charin Saengao. Two others were also arrested for possession: Sayan Namkam, 45, caught with 0.65 grammes of ice Anantawut Phrombut, 32, found with 0.49 grammes of ice All seven were hauled off to Pattaya City Police Station for further questioning and legal action, Pattaya News reported. Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News Days earlier, chaos also erupted in the same neighbourhood. On May 2 at 4.36pm, Lieutenant Colonel Prasit Boonprasit, head of the Pattaya City Police Drug Suppression Unit, led another operation in Jomtien Soi 3 following reports of a crazed man attacking people and booting cars, all while screaming that his dad was a police officer. The incident caused mass panic, with terrified residents scrambling to avoid the raging man. CCTV footage traced his vehicle back to the area, where police suspected a deeper link to local drug trafficking. What they uncovered confirmed their fears, a major meth operation and two suspects tied to the chaos. During the dramatic arrest, one dealer lashed out and injured a police officer, but both were eventually subdued. “These arrests send a clear message,” said Police Lieutenant Anek. “We encourage the public to continue reporting drug activity. You can call 191 or our hotline at 082-7999-111 at any time.” The story Ice and menace: Pattaya methamphetamine bust causes mayhem as seen on Thaiger News.

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