Nongprue police arrest drug dealer in undercover sting operationLegacyIn a coordinated operation on July 27, 2025, led by Banglamung District Chief Patcharapat Sritanyanon, a 24 year old drug dealer, Thanawat Suksamai, known as Two, was arrested in Nongprue, Chon Buri. The sting operation took place in a rented room in Soi Khao Talo 8, where Thanawat was found with 37.3 grams of ketamine, 0.6 grams of crystal methamphetamine, and various drug paraphernalia, including a scale and plastic zip-lock bags. The operation, under the direction of Wanchai Wannaprom, head of the district’s administrative division, was a collaborative effort involving local officials and officers from Nongprue Police Station. Officers Kamphrai Laosaen, Nathaphop Yomjinda, Natthawat Sophonsewatsilp, and Tharit Janchareun participated in the task force. The arrest followed intelligence gathered after a drug user was detained on July 26, leading to an undercover operation aimed at Thanawat, who was noted for supplying drugs to local youths, especially those in hostess bars. An undercover agent facilitated a sting by arranging to purchase 5,000 baht (US$154) worth of ketamine from Thanawat. Initially cautious, Thanawat sought to verify the buyer but eventually agreed to the transaction. Following the exchange of drugs and marked cash, the agent signalled the task force to move in, leading to Thanawat’s arrest without any resistance. A search of his room revealed additional drugs in plain view, which were confiscated along with the marked 5,000 baht. During the interrogation, Thanawat admitted to the charges, confessing that the drugs were his. He shared that after a failed attempt at running a mala business, he resorted to drug dealing for financial reasons. He mentioned that his primary clientele comprised young bar workers and claimed that a larger drug stash belonged to a friend he could no longer reach. Expressing regret, Thanawat warned others against getting involved with drugs, reported The Pattaya News. Thanawat was subsequently handed over to Nongprue Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings. Efforts to dismantle drug networks in the Banglamung area continue, with a focus on preventing the spread of narcotics among the local youth. Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News The story Nongprue police arrest drug dealer in undercover sting operation as seen on Thaiger News.

Fire at Bangchak Oil Refinery contained after explosionLegacyA fire broke out at the Bangchak Oil Refinery in Sriracha, Chon Buri, yesterday, July 26, at roughly 12.30pm. This incident led to a loud explosion and sent thick smoke into the sky, surprising nearby residents. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or fatalities. Police at Laem Chabang were quickly informed and coordinated efforts with over 10 fire trucks from Laem Chabang Municipality and surrounding areas to address the fire. Firefighters worked diligently and managed to control the blaze in just over an hour, restoring calm to the vicinity. According to a refinery worker, the incident was preceded by a loud explosion, after which flames engulfed part of the facility. Initial efforts to put out the fire using chemical suppressants were unsuccessful, prompting an evacuation for safety. Eventually, firefighters successfully subdued the flames. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with forensic teams scheduled to examine the site to uncover the exact circumstances. Officials have reassured the public that the situation is now stable, and further updates will be provided as the investigation continues, reported The Pattaya News. Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News In similar news, a fire broke out last night at the Karon Phunaka Resort & Spa in Phuket, prompting an emergency response from staff just before guest check-in. The blaze ignited in the spa lounge’s reception area, reportedly caused by a malfunctioning air conditioning unit. Karon Police Station’s radio centre received an alert around 6.30pm on July 23. By the time police arrived, the resort staff had already managed to contain the flames. Officers found burn marks around the AC unit and scorch damage to a nearby wall. Although the fire did not spread beyond the immediate area and no injuries were reported, smoke and charred plaster marred the spa’s tranquil setting. The story Fire at Bangchak Oil Refinery contained after explosion as seen on Thaiger News.

Baby monkey boom delights visitors at Chon Buri zooLegacyKhao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri has announced the successful birth of five healthy squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus), adding to its troop and bringing the total population of the species at the zoo to 23. Zoo director Narongwit Chodchoy confirmed the good news this week, calling the multiple births a sign of the zoo’s high standards of animal care. “The mothers are very protective, so we haven’t been able to determine the sex of the babies just yet,” he said. “They’ll cling to their mothers’ backs for about a month before becoming more independent.” Known for their acrobatic agility and striking mask-like facial features, squirrel monkeys are a favourite among zoo visitors. Their bodies typically measure around 30 centimetres in length, with tails reaching about 40 centimetres—longer than their torsos. These lively primates are often found leaping through treetops in large groups in the wild. The newborns can already be seen—albeit clinging tightly to their mothers—in the Wildlife Wonderland section of the zoo, where daily visitors can catch a glimpse of the new arrivals. The timing couldn’t be better. Bangkok Post reported that on Monday, July 28, a national holiday marking His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s birthday, the zoo will offer free entry for children under 12 years old or shorter than 135cm. Narongwit hopes the special promotion and new arrivals will draw even more families to experience the zoo’s growing animal family. “These births reflect our team’s dedication to providing excellent care and creating an environment where animals can thrive,” he said. Photo courtesy of Global News The zoo has been on a hot streak with adorable animal additions. Last year, it gained international buzz after the birth of Moo Deng, a rare pygmy hippopotamus that became a viral sensation. Whether it’s a tiny hippo or a troop of tree-hopping baby monkeys, Khao Kheow Open Zoo continues to swing into the global spotlight—one adorable animal at a time. The story Baby monkey boom delights visitors at Chon Buri zoo as seen on Thaiger News.

Topless woman rescued on Pattaya street in distress dramaLegacyPattaya officials sprang into action after a woman in visible mental distress was spotted wandering shirtless down a busy Jomtien street. The unsettling scene unfolded on Bun Kanchana Soi 2, where concerned residents alerted authorities after noticing the woman behaving erratically without a top on. Responding with speed and sensitivity, officers from the Jomtien municipal enforcement unit located the woman and escorted her to the municipal centre for immediate care. “She appeared disoriented and deeply distressed. Our team provided clothing and helped calm her before arranging further support,” said a Jomtien official. The woman was later referred to relevant agencies for additional medical and psychological assistance. Her identity has not been disclosed. The incident has prompted Pattaya City Hall to remind residents and tourists that help is just a phone call away — particularly for vulnerable persons who may be suffering from mental health issues, intoxication, or other impairments. “Municipal teams are trained and ready to assist not only locals but also intoxicated tourists who may struggle to return safely to their hotels,” said a spokesperson. “Sometimes just one call can prevent serious harm to the person or to others around them.” Officials urge the public not to walk away when they see someone clearly in need — whether it’s a confused person on the street or a drunk tourist struggling to get home, Pattaya Mail reported. “Even if someone appears to be just intoxicated, they could be in danger. Intervention could save a life,” the City Hall statement read. City teams can also help with transport, ensuring that stranded or impaired tourists — and even their vehicles — make it back safely without incident. The public is encouraged to use the Pattaya City Hall 24-hour hotline: 1337, to report such cases or request assistance. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. The story Topless woman rescued on Pattaya street in distress drama as seen on Thaiger News.

Top cop’s Mercedes goes up in flames in PattayaLegacyA high-ranking police officer narrowly escaped disaster in Pattaya after his Mercedes-Benz burst into flames on a major road. In the early hours of yesterday, July 25, a luxury car went up in smoke at the notorious Matchstick Factory Intersection on Sukhumvit Road, drawing dramatic scenes of flashing lights, thick black smoke and a wall of fire. Emergency responders from the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Centre and Pattaya City Fire Department raced to the scene following reports at 2.40am yesterday. When they arrived, the front end of the silver Mercedes was already engulfed in flames, with smoke billowing into the sky. Initial efforts by bystanders to extinguish the fire using nearby water sources failed due to the heat and intensity of the blaze. Fire crews, bolstered by additional backup units, battled the flames for more than 10 minutes before finally bringing the inferno under control. “The fire was concentrated in the engine bay, and the smoke was too thick to approach at first,” said one emergency responder at the scene. Inside the scorched vehicle, investigators found a police uniform and other personal items confirming that the car belonged to a senior-ranking officer. Miraculously, the officer managed to exit the vehicle just moments before the fire spread beyond the bonnet, The Pattaya News reported. “There were no injuries. The officer is safe and is cooperating fully with our investigation,” said a spokesperson from Bang Lamung Police Station, which is handling the case. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown. Police and fire investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby businesses and will conduct a full forensic examination of the vehicle once it cools. Speculation has already begun online, with social media users questioning whether a mechanical fault or external factor may have triggered the blaze. Locals familiar with the Matchstick Factory Intersection noted the irony of the location’s name given the fiery scene, though authorities were quick to downplay any symbolism. The officer, who has not been publicly identified, was reportedly en route home at the time of the incident. His identity is being withheld pending the outcome of the investigation. The story Top cop’s Mercedes goes up in flames in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

Wrong-way rider causes crash near SattahipLegacyA three-motorbike collision unfolded on Highway 331 near Sattahip late on Thursday, leaving one man seriously injured and another rider lucky to walk away. The accident occurred at around 10pm on July 24 when 49 year old Boonchalerm Singngoi, riding a white-and-red Honda Wave 125i, reportedly entered the highway from the Khao Mai Kaew market – but heading in the wrong direction. Travelling against oncoming traffic, Boonchalerm collided head-on with 52 year old Amnat Noi-ocha, who was riding legally on his grey Honda Nice. The impact was so violent that both motorcycles were sent crashing across the road. Rescue teams from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation in Pattaya were quickly dispatched to the scene, along with volunteers who provided urgent medical aid. Amnat sustained serious injuries, including a deep laceration on his left leg, a torn eyelid, and a head wound. He was stabilised at the scene before being rushed to a nearby hospital. Just minutes later, the danger escalated further. A third rider, 28 year old Sirilak Bupphasiri, arrived on the scene, unaware of the debris scattered across the road. Riding a red Honda Click, she failed to avoid the wreckage and collided with the already crashed Honda Nice, reported The Pattaya News. Fortunately, Sirilak sustained only minor injuries and did not require hospitalisation. Her motorbike, however, suffered visible damage in the secondary crash. Police officers from the local station are now investigating the sequence of events. Authorities are reviewing nearby CCTV footage and gathering witness testimonies to determine the precise cause of the incident. Legal action is expected to follow based on their findings. At this stage, officers have not confirmed whether alcohol, drugs, or excessive speed played any part in the crash. The section of Highway 331 where the incident occurred is reportedly known for frequent accidents, especially at night when visibility is reduced and some drivers flout traffic laws. The story Wrong-way rider causes crash near Sattahip as seen on Thaiger News.

Cops bust Chon Buri grocery store fronting drug ringLegacyIn a dramatic crackdown on drug trafficking in Chon Buri, Bang Lamung Police joined forces with local officials to raid a seemingly ordinary grocery store that was secretly operating as a hub for illegal narcotics. The bust, which took place in Village 5 of the Takhian Tia area, led to the arrest of five suspects and the seizure of a significant quantity of methamphetamine. The operation kicked off when officers stormed the store and detained 55 year old Nookon Boonsala from Sisaket province. Police found 290 methamphetamine tablets hidden on the premises. Authorities say the store was being used as a front to mask its involvement in drug distribution. Following the initial raid, Police Colonel Sarawut Nuchanart, Superintendent of Bang Lamung Police Station, ordered a wider investigation. Under the command of Police Lieutenant Colonel Pakorn Muensi-ngern and Police Lieutenant Thongthawat Phonlakorn, officers traced the supply chain and uncovered links to a major local dealer identified only as “M.” The expanded operation resulted in the arrest of four more suspects: 40 year old Ek Wiramud, who was found with 368 meth pills, 43 year old Bang-on Ruenrot (3 meth pills), 42 year old Suphannika Thaenduang (220 meth pills and 0.75 grammes of crystal meth), and 33 year old Adisak Boonmuang (50 meth pills). The police recovered 638 meth pills and just under a gramme of crystal meth in total. During questioning, all suspects reportedly admitted to possessing the drugs and confessed they were dealing primarily to teenagers and factory workers in the area. The drugs were typically sold in batches of three to five bags at roughly 3,300 baht each, The Pattaya News reports. Police believe the network is part of a broader operation and are now working to track down the main dealer and remaining associates. Police have pledged continued raids and strict enforcement to root out the drug trade in Takhian Tia and the surrounding areas. The story Cops bust Chon Buri grocery store fronting drug ring as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya slashes spaghetti wires in major city makeoverLegacyPattaya is finally tackling one of its biggest eyesores—those tangled telecom cables hanging from power poles—by cutting them down in a citywide cleanup drive. Yesterday morning, July 24, Pattaya City Mayor Poramet Ngampichet led the launch of the 2025 Telecommunications Cable Organisation Project, aimed at removing disused wires and improving both public safety and visual appeal. The initiative, carried out under the supervision of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) Pattaya Branch, began with a formal kick-off event chaired by Assistant Governor of PEA Region 2 Somak Wongwaiphanich. Attendees included Bang Lamung District Chief Phatcharaphat Sritanyanon, senior city executives, telecom firms, cable providers, and other agencies. “This project supports the government’s push to enhance urban aesthetics by removing cluttered, abandoned wires that make the city look untidy,” said Somak. “As part of the Ministry of Interior, the PEA is working closely with Pattaya City to streamline and manage telecommunications cables.” The opening phase focuses on a 1.4-kilometre stretch of Sawang Fa Road, near the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation. A total of 60 utility poles will be cleared, with 16 telecommunications companies participating. As part of the project, cable markers will also be installed to identify each provider’s lines. Mayor Poramet praised the joint effort between Pattaya City, the PEA, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), and all involved. “We’re not just cleaning up the skyline,” he said. “This project also boosts public safety and protects property by reducing the risk of cable-related incidents.” Alongside the overhead removal, Pattaya continues to push forward with its long-term plan to bury power and telecom lines underground. Of the nine planned underground routes, six or seven have already been completed. Two more sections—Jomtien Second Road and the Naklua area, from the Dolphin Roundabout to the Bang Lamung District Office—are next in line. This will bring the total to 11 underground corridors aimed at modernising infrastructure, improving safety, and creating a cleaner cityscape, The Pattaya News reports. The story Pattaya slashes spaghetti wires in major city makeover as seen on Thaiger News.

Flashing zebra crossing turns heads in PattayaLegacyPattaya has rolled out a new traffic safety innovation that’s turning heads and slowing traffic. On Wednesday, July 23, the city launched a high-tech pedestrian crossing system on Second Road near Soi 6 in North Pattaya, designed to make road crossings significantly safer. The crossing features a push-button system that activates flashing lights, alerting oncoming vehicles to slow down or stop. This small but impactful change aims to reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents, particularly in high-traffic areas popular with tourists. “Crossing the road used to be risky because cars wouldn’t stop,” said Sompong Phurimanak, a local vendor near the crossing. “Now, with these flashing lights, drivers will hopefully stop.” The system has already received positive feedback from locals and tourists, who say the improved visibility and added warning signals make a noticeable difference in road safety. According to Pattaya City officials, this crossing is the first of several planned installations. The city intends to roll out similar smart zebra crossings in other busy locations, including Beach Road and Walking Street, as part of a broader initiative to enhance public safety and promote a more pedestrian-friendly environment, The Pattaya News reported. “Our goal is to make Pattaya a safer and more walkable city,” said a spokesperson from Pattaya City Hall. “We’re focusing on tourist-heavy areas and roads with a high volume of foot traffic.” While some residents have expressed doubts about whether drivers will consistently obey the new system, city officials have assured the public that traffic police will be stationed in key areas to enforce the rules and issue fines to motorists who fail to yield. The initiative is part of Pattaya’s ongoing efforts to modernise its infrastructure and adopt smart city technologies. By improving pedestrian safety, officials hope to enhance the overall visitor experience and set a new standard for road safety across Thailand. The story Flashing zebra crossing turns heads in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya expats rattled by driving licence clampdownLegacyA new rule quietly rolled out by Land Transportation offices in Bang Lamung (Pattaya) and Rayong has triggered widespread confusion and anxiety among the foreign community. As of July 17, foreigners holding visas valid for less than one year will only be granted two-year driving licences—whether applying for the first time or renewing. The rule, which is not yet a national policy, has set social media alight with speculation that popular annually renewable visas—such as retirement or marriage-based extensions—may now disqualify expats from obtaining a five-year licence. However, all may not be lost. Speaking to Pattaya Mail, one retiree on a one-year extension of stay confirmed he had successfully renewed his five-year driving licence just last week. He explained that his current visa is valid until August 2026—over a year ahead of his renewal date—a detail that might be the key factor in his approval. “Most retirees renew their visas early, so technically they hold more than one year of validity at the time of application,” he said. “That could be what makes the difference.” Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Authorities have not publicly clarified why the regulation is currently being enforced in only two provincial branches, while other Land Transport offices nationwide appear unaffected. Some speculate the move aims to restrict Destination Thailand Visa holders—whose stays may last just six months—from claiming the full five-year licence. Also excluded from long-term licence eligibility are holders of: Tourist visas 60-day visa exemptions Short-term non-immigrant visas (3 months) Pattaya Mail urged calm, warning that translation discrepancies may be contributing to the chaos. The phrases “less than one year” and “more than one year” may be misinterpreted or poorly explained during implementation. Until official guidance emerges, expats are advised to check the expiry date on their visa extensions and apply for renewals early if planning to update their driving licences. For now, the best course of action seems to be staying calm and informed—and resisting the urge to panic over every forum rumour. The story Pattaya expats rattled by driving licence clampdown as seen on Thaiger News.

Mayor tackles illegal waste dumping by Chinese firm in Chon BuriLegacyIn Chon Buri, the mayor of the Nong Chak subdistrict is taking firm action against a Chinese company caught illegally dumping waste in a prohibited area. The waste was returned to the factory’s entrance, and legal proceedings are underway. Today, July 24, Doctor Chawinkraiwit Singthotong, Mayor of Nong Chak subdistrict municipality, inspected a large amount of waste after reports indicated that a food vendor from a local factory was responsible for the illegal dumping in Moo 2, Nong Chak subdistrict, Ban Bueng district, Chon Buri province. Consequently, the mayor instructed municipal staff to load the waste back onto a truck and return it to the factory from which it originated. A local journalist visited the Nong Chak subdistrict municipal office to investigate the situation and spoke with Mayor Singthotong. The mayor confirmed that he had been monitoring the illegal dumping of waste from the factory for some time following several complaints from residents in Moo 2, Nong Chak subdistrict. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Upon investigation, he discovered multiple areas where dumping had occurred. Municipal workers were initially tasked with clearing the waste, but complaints continued to surface. Further scrutiny revealed that a food vendor, supplying meals to factory employees, had been disposing of waste without permission from municipal officials. As the vendor serves around 15,000 workers, the waste produced is significant. This unauthorised disposal violates public health regulations from 2017 and cleanliness laws from 1992. To address the issue, the mayor plans to summon all food vendors operating within the factory to devise a comprehensive solution to the problem, reported KhaoSod. In similar news, police have uncovered a clandestine industrial dumping site in Prachin Buri, holding more than 8,000 tonnes of hazardous waste and exposing a vast illegal recycling operation allegedly run by foreign nationals in violation of Thai law. The discovery was made during a coordinated raid by the Industry Ministry and its “Sudsoi Team,” a special taskforce directed by Industry Minister Akanat Promphan. The story Mayor tackles illegal waste dumping by Chinese firm in Chon Buri as seen on Thaiger News.

Buffalo bust as Yaba duo in Chon Buri caught in the actLegacyA drug crackdown in rural Chon Buri left two suspected dealers out of luck, one of them nabbed hiding in a buffalo shed with a pocketful of Yaba. Police in Koh Chan district, Chon Buri, swooped on two alleged drug traffickers in a targeted operation yesterday, July 23, part of the Ministry of Interior’s hardline No Drugs – No Dealers blitz. The sting, carried out at 1.30pm, was launched following a flurry of complaints from locals about rising drug activity in the area. Acting Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai ordered the crackdown, which was overseen by Chon Buri Governor Thawatchai Srithong. Koh Chan district chief Kanyakorn Kulphornrat assigned Chief Security Officer Thanawut Sitalakaew to lead the charge alongside local police and the District Volunteer Defence Corps Unit 11. The first suspect, 45 year old Siam Phongsaard, was caught red-handed in a buffalo shed in Village 7 with four methamphetamine pills, commonly known as Yaba. Moments later, the second target, 35 year old Attapol Duangchuen, was arrested at his home in Village 5, where officers uncovered a far bigger stash: 738 Yaba pills, 1.1 grammes of crystal meth, also known as ice, and two mobile phones believed to be linked to drug sales. Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News Pattaya News reported that Siam has been charged with possession and consumption of Category 1 narcotics, while Attapol faces more serious charges of possession with intent to distribute, plus illegal use of methamphetamine. Both suspects have been detained at Koh Chan Police Station as legal proceedings get underway. The operation marks another strike in Thailand’s growing war on drugs. Just last month, in a show of solidarity, Pattaya residents took to the streets to mark World Drug Day with a major anti-drug march led by Bang Lamung District Chief Patcharapat Srithanyanon. The campaign, under the banner Building Thai Strength, Stopping the Drug Threat, drew huge support, and served as a reminder that communities across the Kingdom are no longer willing to roll the dice when it comes to drugs. The story Buffalo bust as Yaba duo in Chon Buri caught in the act as seen on Thaiger News.