News
State Workers Lose 18 Million Baht in iCon Group Scam

A Devastating Loss for Two State Workers
Two state enterprise employees have come forward as victims of the notorious iCon Group scam, collectively losing a staggering 18 million baht. Alongside 102 other victims, the pair filed complaints with the authorities, hoping to bring justice to their financial ordeal.
How It All Began: False Promises and Misleading Advertisements
Piromna’s Story – Lured by a Low-Cost Online Course
Piromna, a 32-year-old state worker, recounted how her journey with the scam began during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. She came across an enticing advertisement for a course on creating online content, priced at just 29 baht. Seeing the opportunity as affordable, she quickly enrolled.
Initially, the course seemed legitimate, focusing on content creation. However, as the lessons progressed, they started introducing product sales, particularly collagen and coffee. Enticed by promises of better health and immunity, Piromna purchased products for personal use and even ordered a central stock worth 24,000 baht to sell. However, the expensive products had low demand, and her anticipated earnings never materialized.
Pitipat’s Story – A Cooperative Loan Gone Wrong
Pitipat, a 49-year-old colleague, shared a similar experience. After seeing a TV advertisement for a 95-baht video creation course, she signed up. The course led her to a Zoom training session where participants were urged to join The iCon Group, especially if they lacked products to sell.
Believing in the promise of 100% profit, Pitipat took out a cooperative loan from her workplace, totaling 300,000 baht. Motivated by claims that the profits could become a legacy for her descendants, she invested 250,000 baht in products like vitamin C and coffee. Unfortunately, the high price of these items meant they didn’t sell, leaving her with unsellable stock and mounting debt.
The Financial and Emotional Toll
Piromna’s Struggles to Recover
Over two years, Piromna tried her best to distribute and sell the products. However, the steep prices meant customers were hard to find. Despite her efforts, the anticipated income never materialized. The financial strain took its toll, and Piromna eventually joined the 102 other victims in reporting the fraud to the authorities.
Pitipat’s Emotional Breakdown
Pitipat’s losses were even more significant. With her house now filled with expired products and debts piling up, she fell into a deep depression. She even contemplated suicide as a result of the overwhelming stress. Fortunately, her friends and family offered her support during this difficult time, though some people in her life contributed to her distress.
Seeking Justice – Filing the Police Complaint
For both Piromna and Pitipat, reporting the scam to the police was their final hope for financial restitution. They presented evidence of money transfers and related documents, hoping that authorities would take action against the perpetrators.
Pitipat Reflects on the Scam
Looking back on the experience, Pitipat described it as the most expensive lesson of her life. “I believed in the potential profits from selling the products, so I took out a cooperative loan. Now, I’m left with a house full of expired products and crippling debt,” she shared. “But the support of friends and family has kept me going.”
Conclusion: The Importance of Vigilance in Online Ventures
The story of Piromna and Pitipat serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online business opportunities, especially those promising quick profits. The iCon Group scam highlights the importance of thorough research and skepticism when dealing with unknown entities. As the victims await justice, their experience underscores the need for stronger consumer protection in the digital age.
News
Strengthening National Security: New Authority for Supreme Commander

The Prime Minister has granted the Supreme Commander new authority to tackle transnational threats, marking a significant step in enhancing national security. This initiative aims to bolster efforts against emerging cross-border challenges, including organized crime and cyber threats.
Enhancing Security Measures
Combating Organized Crime
The Supreme Commander’s new authority will focus on combating call center gangs and other forms of transnational crime. This move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen law enforcement capabilities and protect citizens from evolving threats.
Strategic Coordination
International Cooperation
The initiative also involves strategic coordination with international partners to share intelligence and best practices in combating transnational crime. This collaboration is crucial for staying ahead of sophisticated criminal networks that operate across borders.
Technological Advancements
Cybersecurity Enhancements
In addition to traditional crime-fighting methods, the Supreme Commander will leverage advanced technology to enhance cybersecurity. This includes investing in digital tools to monitor and disrupt cyber threats, ensuring the safety of national infrastructure and personal data.
Public Awareness and Engagement
Community Involvement
To maximize the effectiveness of these efforts, there will be a focus on public awareness and community engagement. Educating the public about the risks of transnational crime and encouraging participation in reporting suspicious activities are key components of this strategy.
News
Celebrating Five Decades of Thai-Chinese Diplomatic Relations

Strengthening Cultural Bonds
Cultural Events and Performances
Thailand and China are marking a significant milestone in their diplomatic relations with a grand celebration of their 50-year ties. The event, held at the China Cultural Centre in Bangkok, featured a captivating performance by the renowned Symphony Choir of China. This cultural exchange aimed to deepen the understanding and friendship between the two nations, symbolizing their enduring partnership through music. The celebration highlighted the importance of cultural, economic, and educational exchanges in strengthening their bilateral relations.
Enhancing Bilateral Cooperation
Economic and Cultural Exchanges
The 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations is being commemorated with a series of events and activities designed to promote bilateral cooperation. These include cultural performances, exhibitions, and special promotions that reflect the vibrant cultural heritage of both countries. The official logo for the anniversary, featuring a Naga and a Dragon, represents the shared aspirations of Thailand and China towards a community with a shared future, emphasizing stability, prosperity, and sustainability.
Golden Jubilee Celebrations
High-Level Visits and Cultural Activities
This year’s celebrations are particularly significant, with high-level visits planned between the two nations. Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang is scheduled to visit Thailand, coinciding with the 5th Mekong-Lacang Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting. Additionally, cultural representatives from various Chinese provinces will visit Thailand, further enriching the cultural exchange between the two countries. The Tourism Authority of Thailand is also organizing Chinese New Year celebrations, reflecting the deepening cultural ties and cooperation between Thailand and China.
Strengthening Economic Ties
Bilateral Agreements and Trade
Thailand and China have signed 14 bilateral agreements, reinforcing their cooperation in strategic sectors such as economy, investment, energy, and customs. These agreements aim to enhance trade efficiency, particularly for key agricultural exports like durian, and promote scientific collaboration and technological advancements. The emphasis on strengthening economic ties underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering a prosperous and sustainable partnership.
News
Thailand Braces for Severe Weather: Storm Alert Issued

A storm alert has been issued for Bangkok and surrounding areas, effective from Thursday. This warning comes as a moderate high-pressure system from China is expected to extend over the Northeast and the South China Sea, bringing significant weather changes.
Weather Conditions and Precautions
Understanding the Storm System
The approaching storm system is anticipated to bring thunderstorms, strong winds, and potential hail to upper Thailand. Residents are advised to be cautious of these sudden weather changes, avoiding open areas, tall trees, weak structures, and advertising billboards. Farmers should also take necessary precautions to protect their crops from potential damage.
Preparing for the Storm
The storms are expected to follow a period of intense heat, with temperatures in the Central and Northeast regions possibly reaching 40°C. Southerly and southeasterly winds are currently affecting the lower North, Northeast, Central, and East, leading to isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds. It is crucial for residents to stay indoors during the heatwave and be prepared for the storms by having safety gear ready.
Regional Weather Outlook
Bangkok and Surrounding Areas
Bangkok and its vicinity will experience hot days with isolated thunderstorms. Temperatures are expected to range from 25-28°C to a high of 34-37°C. While the storms may cover only a small portion of the city, residents should remain vigilant and prepared for any weather hazards.
Other Regions
In the southern region, partly cloudy skies with thunderstorms in about 10% of the area are expected. The East will see haze paired with heat, while the South will experience easterly breezes with temperatures fluctuating between 22-36°C. The sea conditions will generally be calm unless thunderstorms occur, which could increase wave heights.
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