Here is a look at the top NATIONAL Thailand stories, chosen by our Pattaya News/TPN National team, from last week, Monday, August 18th, to Sunday, August 24th 2025.
They are not in any particular level of importance but are listed in the order of date of publication.
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Banglamung Police arrested Mr. Yu Shizhone, a 41-year-old Chinese national, in a sting operation in Chonburi’s Huai Yai area.
Chinese National Arrested Near Pattaya for Illegal Trade of Ketamine Laced Vapes
When Mr. Yu sensed a trap, he attempted to flee in a white Toyota Yaris but was apprehended near a pharmacy in Takhian Tia, approximately one kilometer from the sting location.
2. In the early hours of Friday two Chinese men allegedly broke into a luxury villa in Pattaya, Thailand, holding a Thai woman hostage in an apparent attempt to ambush and extort her Chinese husband.
Despite extensive searches, the suspects remain at large.
3. A man believed to be Indian, aged between 30 and 40, nearly drowned at Cozy Beach in Pattaya after suffering severe cramps while swimming.
Indian Man Rescued from Drowning at Pattaya Beach, Remains in Critical Condition
Police initially suspect the incident was caused by muscle cramps while swimming in the sea.
4. Emergency services rushed to the scene on Sunday afternoon (August 17th) at 4:10 P.M. after an ultralight aircraft crashed onto a main road near the Phuket Airpark in Khlok
One Person Dies after Ultralight Aircraft Crash on Road in Pa Khlok
He was later identified as a 40 year-old Thai male flight instructor and a manager of the Phuket Airpark.
5. A Russian man went missing, and later was sadly found deceased, after reportedly pushing his girlfriend to safety before being swept away by strong waves off the coast of Phuket.
Body of Missing Russian Found After Rescue of Girlfriend from Water at Beach in Thalang
The Russian man, identified as Mr. Denis, 35, had entered the water with his girlfriend, Ms. Kamil, 24, also a Russian national.
6. A Russian tourist was rushed to a local hospital after being bitten by a monkey and collapsing at Khao To Sae, a popular hilltop viewpoint.
Russian Tourist Bitten by Monkey at the Toh Sae Viewpoint in Phuket Town
Mr. Krit Thepbamrung, tourist volunteer, said such incidents are not uncommon. “Many visitors underestimate the risks of interacting with wild monkeys,” he explained. “Approaching them or offering food can trigger defensive or aggressive behavior.”
7. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), through the Marine Police Division, launched a targeted operation at Chalong Pier in Phuket, resulting in the arrest of three Indian nationals for illegally working aboard a luxury yacht.
Three Indian Nationals Arrested for Illegally Working on Luxury Yacht in Phuket
Mr. Kumar Abhishek (29), Mr. Honey (34), and Mr. Armanjot (20)—were found to be working without valid work permits. They admitted to being hired by a fellow Indian national, identified only as Mr. Rikhi, to cook Indian cuisine onboard for a daily wage of 700 baht each.
8. The Bureau of the Royal Household has issued an official statement on the condition of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Thepwadi.
Royal Household Gives Health Update on Her Majesty Princess Bajrakitiyabha
Her Royal Highness has been under medical care at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital since December 15, 2022, after suffering a sudden loss of consciousness caused by a heart condition.
9. Suspended Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra appeared at the Constitutional Court in Bangkok on Thursday to testify in a high-stakes case that could lead to her removal from office.
Suspended Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Testifies at Constitutional Court Amid Ethics Probe
The controversy erupted over a June 15th conversation, leaked by Hun Sen.
10. Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was cleared of royal defamation charges in a high-profile lese majeste case, marking a big victory for the influential political leader and his family’s enduring dynasty.
The 76-year-old, who faced up to 15 years in prison, left the court smiling, briefly telling reporters the case was “dismissed” without further comment.
That’s all for this week, as always thanks for your support.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
