A Thai undertaker’s dramatic protest — bringing a corpse to a petrol station — has highlighted the fuel crunch gripping Thailand and Southeast Asia as a result of soaring energy prices tied to the ongoing US‑Israel‑Iran war, which has disrupted global oil supplies via the Strait of Hormuz.


Thai Undertaker's Ordeal Reflects Fuel Crunch to Iran War 

Conservation and development work at a famous reclining Buddha statue site revealed a gold treasure comprising 33 ancient ornaments of gold, silver, and bronze. Thailand’s Fine Arts Department said in a statement that the discovery was made inside the Wat Thammachak Sema Ram temple complex. On April 21, 2025, workers were removing moisture from over four feet below the sandstone statue when they struck a ceramic container. The earthenware vessel, which wasn't fully built, contained the metal ornaments "including gold rings, silver earrings, and various bronze pieces." One of the items is a screw-hoop bronze earring, which is similar to discoveries made at the Phu Khao Thong archaeological site in Ranong Province and the Tha Chana archaeological site in Surat Thani Province. This means that the bronze earring belongs to the Dvaravati period, about 1,300 years ago.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-cikai-korran-came-here-2-000-years-ago-indian-man-scribbled-his-name-in-tamil-on-8-egyptian-tombs-1773298022463">'Cikai Korran came here': 2,000 years ago, Indian man scribbled his name in Tamil on Egyptian tombs</a> Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/greek-oracle-entered-a-trance-and-told-people-their-future-turns-out-she-was-just-high-1772705915815">Oracle of Delphi told Alexander the Great his future. Turns out, the 'spaced-out' woman was lying to him</a><h2>Which artefacts were found under the reclining Buddha statue?</h2>Archaeologists took over and continued the digging work at the Phra Non archaeological site. They unearthed three more artefacts made of gold and lead/tin. One of them &nbsp;Rectangular embossed gold leaf plaque depicting a seated Buddha. It measures eight centimetres wide and 12.5 centimetres high and is in good condition. "The embossed image shows a seated Buddha with a halo around his head, large, coiled curls of hair, long ears, downcast eyes, thick lips, and a robe draped diagonally," the statement reads.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/shiva-temple-tamil-nadu-village-chola-period-banyan-tree-1769773570741">900-year-old Shiva temple cloaked by a banyan tree discovered in Tamil Nadu</a><h2>Hindu God Brahma on a Thai artefact</h2>The second item is a tin or lead embossed panel depicting a Buddha image in an arched frame. It is 11.5 cm wide and 15.5 cm high and shows a standing Buddha with a halo of small beads around his head. However, this piece is broken and missing a portion on the right, which was supposedly a figure. The figure on the left is believed to be the Thai expression of the Hindu god Brahma.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pot-of-gold-buried-900-years-ago-unearthed-in-a-karnataka-village-now-there-is-a-fuss-over-who-owns-it-1768376950848">Pot of gold buried 900 years ago unearthed in a Karnataka village. Now there is a fuss over who owns it</a>&nbsp;The third artefact consists of three pieces of earthen lumps with metal plates embedded. They are quite damaged, making the exact count unclear. They were located behind the head of the reclining Buddha statue. Phanombutr Chantrachot, the director-general of the Fine Arts Department, says this shows that the artwork was possibly some sort of ritual offering.&nbsp;Notably, the reclining Buddha statue inside the Wat Thammachak Sema Ram temple complex is considered the country’s longest, measuring a whopping 43 feet long. It is also the oldest, as it was created around 657 AD. The Phimai National Museum is now examining the artefacts and initial conservation efforts have started. &nbsp;

Archaeologists found a gold treasure under the longest and oldest reclining Buddha statue in Thailand. There are three artefacts, and one of them is believed to be the Hindu God Brahma. The discovery was made at the Wat Thammachak Sema Ram temple complex.

Conservation and development work at a famous reclining Buddha statue site revealed a gold treasure comprising 33 ancient ornaments of gold, silver, and bronze. Thailand’s Fine Arts Department said in a statement that the discovery was made inside the Wat Thammachak Sema Ram temple complex. On April 21, 2025, workers were removing moisture from over four feet below the sandstone statue when they struck a ceramic container. The earthenware vessel, which wasn't fully built, contained the metal ornaments "including gold rings, silver earrings, and various bronze pieces." One of the items is a screw-hoop bronze earring, which is similar to discoveries made at the Phu Khao Thong archaeological site in Ranong Province and the Tha Chana archaeological site in Surat Thani Province. This means that the bronze earring belongs to the Dvaravati period, about 1,300 years ago. Also Read: 'Cikai Korran came here': 2,000 years ago, Indian man scribbled his name in Tamil on Egyptian tombs Also Read: Oracle of Delphi told Alexander the Great his future. Turns out, the 'spaced-out' woman was lying to him Which artefacts were found under the reclining Buddha statue? Archaeologists took over and continued the digging work at the Phra Non archaeological site. They unearthed three more artefacts made of gold and lead/tin. One of them Rectangular embossed gold leaf plaque depicting a seated Buddha. It measures eight centimetres wide and 12.5 centimetres high and is in good condition. "The embossed image shows a seated Buddha with a halo around his head, large, coiled curls of hair, long ears, downcast eyes, thick lips, and a robe draped diagonally," the statement reads. Also Read: 900-year-old Shiva temple cloaked by a banyan tree discovered in Tamil Nadu Hindu God Brahma on a Thai artefact The second item is a tin or lead embossed panel depicting a Buddha image in an arched frame. It is 11.5 cm wide and 15.5 cm high and shows a standing Buddha with a halo of small beads around his head. However, this piece is broken and missing a portion on the right, which was supposedly a figure. The figure on the left is believed to be the Thai expression of the Hindu god Brahma. Also Read: Pot of gold buried 900 years ago unearthed in a Karnataka village. Now there is a fuss over who owns it The third artefact consists of three pieces of earthen lumps with metal plates embedded. They are quite damaged, making the exact count unclear. They were located behind the head of the reclining Buddha statue. Phanombutr Chantrachot, the director-general of the Fine Arts Department, says this shows that the artwork was possibly some sort of ritual offering. Notably, the reclining Buddha statue inside the Wat Thammachak Sema Ram temple complex is considered the country’s longest, measuring a whopping 43 feet long. It is also the oldest, as it was created around 657 AD. The Phimai National Museum is now examining the artefacts and initial conservation efforts have started.

Archaeologists found a gold treasure under the longest and oldest reclining Buddha statue in Thailand. There are three artefacts, and one of them is believed to be the Hindu God Brahma. The discovery was made at the Wat Thammachak Sema Ram temple complex.

Hindu God Brahma seen on artefact discovered in gold treasure under reclining Buddha statue in Thailand

Thailand has ushered in a new political chapter as Anutin Charnvirakul returns to power with broad parliamentary backing. His rise reflects shifting alliances and a growing nationalist push within the country’s political landscape.

With support from key parties, Anutin is expected to focus on economic recovery, domestic stability, and strengthening Thailand’s position in the region. The development marks a significant moment in Thai politics, as the new leadership navigates both internal challenges and global pressures.

Thailand: Anutin Returns to Power with Broad Backing and Nationalist Push

Thailand’s new parliament has elected Anutin Charnvirakul as the Prime Minister, marking his return to power. This historic decision highlights the shifting political landscape in Thailand and the key alliances shaping the government. 


Thailand Elects Anutin as Prime Minister | Anutin Back in Power

The United States thought it could get away with dumping its waste in an Asian country, but this time, its plan has failed. Thailand seized 284 tonnes of electronic waste that reached its port under false declarations. Authorities are planning to ship all of its back to the country of origin - Trump's America. Thai customs authorities encountered the illegal waste at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri province and have decided to give a clear message to the US that it isn't a dumping ground. Surin Warakijthamrong, head of the Department of Pollution Control, told Bangkok Post that 12 containers were sent to Thailand under a false pretext that they had scrap metal from Haiti. “Authorities have been checking the remaining containers — there are 21 in all — and we expect to find more illegal electronic waste. It will be sent back to the US under the terms of the Basel Convention,” Surin said.<h2>Thai authorities checking 21 US containers for e-waste&nbsp;</h2>Officials received a tip from the Basel Action Network, an international organisation that keeps a check on the trafficking of hazardous goods that violates the Basel Convention. Inspections were carried out and revealed that the containers had circuit boards, electronic components, computer parts, and used technological equipment. There are 21 containers in total, and all of them are being checked. Officials expect more e-waste to be found in them. This e-waste costs a lot more to recycle, and so the US ships it off to some other country. But Thailand has refused to take in the garbage and is getting ready to send it back to the US. Officials from the Pollution Control Department are carrying out an investigation.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/asos-millionaire-quentin-griffiths-dies-net-worth-and-scandals-1771561666020">Asos millionaire Quentin Griffiths falls to his death under 'suspicious circumstances': Net worth and scandals</a><h2>Basel Convention on e-waste</h2>Basel Convention rules dictate that any illegal shipment of hazardous waste must be returned to the country of origin. The cost should also be borne by the country that exported it. Thailand ratified the convention in March 2023. It was formed to control shipments of hazardous waste, which are especially dumped in the least developed and developing countries. It states that such waste should be managed in such a way that it does not pose any threat to the environment. Thailand has taken strict measures to control the entry of e-waste into the country and banned its import in 2020. It also expanded regulations in 2025, covering 463 types of e-waste.

Thailand found 284 tonnes of electronic waste sent illegally by the United States, filled in 12 containers and is not preparing to ship it back to the country of origin. More of them are being checked, and the findings can increase.

The United States thought it could get away with dumping its waste in an Asian country, but this time, its plan has failed. Thailand seized 284 tonnes of electronic waste that reached its port under false declarations. Authorities are planning to ship all of its back to the country of origin - Trump's America. Thai customs authorities encountered the illegal waste at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri province and have decided to give a clear message to the US that it isn't a dumping ground. Surin Warakijthamrong, head of the Department of Pollution Control, told Bangkok Post that 12 containers were sent to Thailand under a false pretext that they had scrap metal from Haiti. “Authorities have been checking the remaining containers — there are 21 in all — and we expect to find more illegal electronic waste. It will be sent back to the US under the terms of the Basel Convention,” Surin said. Thai authorities checking 21 US containers for e-waste Officials received a tip from the Basel Action Network, an international organisation that keeps a check on the trafficking of hazardous goods that violates the Basel Convention. Inspections were carried out and revealed that the containers had circuit boards, electronic components, computer parts, and used technological equipment. There are 21 containers in total, and all of them are being checked. Officials expect more e-waste to be found in them. This e-waste costs a lot more to recycle, and so the US ships it off to some other country. But Thailand has refused to take in the garbage and is getting ready to send it back to the US. Officials from the Pollution Control Department are carrying out an investigation. Also Read: Asos millionaire Quentin Griffiths falls to his death under 'suspicious circumstances': Net worth and scandals Basel Convention on e-waste Basel Convention rules dictate that any illegal shipment of hazardous waste must be returned to the country of origin. The cost should also be borne by the country that exported it. Thailand ratified the convention in March 2023. It was formed to control shipments of hazardous waste, which are especially dumped in the least developed and developing countries. It states that such waste should be managed in such a way that it does not pose any threat to the environment. Thailand has taken strict measures to control the entry of e-waste into the country and banned its import in 2020. It also expanded regulations in 2025, covering 463 types of e-waste.

Thailand found 284 tonnes of electronic waste sent illegally by the United States, filled in 12 containers and is not preparing to ship it back to the country of origin. More of them are being checked, and the findings can increase.

Your garbage, not mine: Thailand to return 284 tonnes of e-waste to America

Opposition parties in Thailand have called for a nationwide re-election following disputes over the recent polls, alleging irregularities and demanding greater transparency in the electoral process. The demand has intensified political tensions as leaders push for accountability and fair voting practices. The situation adds to ongoing uncertainty in Thailand’s political landscape, with authorities facing mounting pressure to address concerns over the credibility of the election results.


Thailand Elections: Opposition Parties Demand Nationwide Re-Election

Over 7,000 cannabis shops in Thailand close due to stricter regulations and new law. This comes after stricter laws made it harder for businesses to comply, leading to significant financial losses for operators in the country.


Thailand Cannabis Shops Face Mass Closures; New Laws Shrink Market 

Quentin Griffiths, the co-founder of online fashion retailer Asos, was found dead in mysterious circumstances under his building in Thailand. He reportedly fell from the balcony of his 17th-floor apartment in Pattaya. Police have not ruled out foul play in his death. The millionaire's body was found by emergency services right under the balcony. Upon checking his apartment, the police did not see anything amiss. Forensic tests will be carried out to detect what transpired inside his home on the day of the incident. Notably, the 58-year-old was in a financial dispute with his ex-wife, who is a Thai national. She accused him of stealing £500,000 from a company they operated together. Quentin was arrested for questioning in the matter last year. She said her husband forged documents to sell land and shares in the firm without her knowledge. He was released later, and the case was ongoing.&nbsp;A source close to the family told The Sun that they are unsure of what could have happened. "It's a real mystery. The phrase 'suspicious circumstances' has been used, but we just don't know yet," they said. A Foreign Office spokesman said: “We are supporting the family of a British national who has died in Thailand and are in contact with the local authorities.”<h2>Quentin Griffiths net worth - Asos valuation</h2>Quentin Griffiths launched Asos in 2000, and it soon became a £3billion company. As per the last figures, Asos is valued at just over £5billion, nearly double that of Marks &amp; Spencer, which stood at £2.7billion. Kate Middleton and Michelle Obama are two of its most famous clients. Griffiths started as a marketing director in 1996, and in four years launched Asos. But he only stayed with the company until 2005. By this time, its share price on the junior AIM market had tripled. He became richer by £15million from share sales in 2010, and cashed in more of them in 2013. Griffiths sued his accountants at BDO after he claimed their advice lost him more than £4million in tax on the sales of more than £10million of shares in Asos and Achica (online retailer co-founded by him).&nbsp;Griffiths moved to Thailand in 2007 after divorcing his first wife. He then married a Thai woman, and had two children with her. They have since separated. &nbsp;

Quentin Griffiths, who founded fashion label Asos, was found dead under the balcony of his apartment in Pattaya, Thailand. Police have not ruled out foul play, and an investigation has been launched. His personal life, net worth and more.

Quentin Griffiths, the co-founder of online fashion retailer Asos, was found dead in mysterious circumstances under his building in Thailand. He reportedly fell from the balcony of his 17th-floor apartment in Pattaya. Police have not ruled out foul play in his death. The millionaire's body was found by emergency services right under the balcony. Upon checking his apartment, the police did not see anything amiss. Forensic tests will be carried out to detect what transpired inside his home on the day of the incident. Notably, the 58-year-old was in a financial dispute with his ex-wife, who is a Thai national. She accused him of stealing £500,000 from a company they operated together. Quentin was arrested for questioning in the matter last year. She said her husband forged documents to sell land and shares in the firm without her knowledge. He was released later, and the case was ongoing. A source close to the family told The Sun that they are unsure of what could have happened. "It's a real mystery. The phrase 'suspicious circumstances' has been used, but we just don't know yet," they said. A Foreign Office spokesman said: “We are supporting the family of a British national who has died in Thailand and are in contact with the local authorities.” Quentin Griffiths net worth - Asos valuation Quentin Griffiths launched Asos in 2000, and it soon became a £3billion company. As per the last figures, Asos is valued at just over £5billion, nearly double that of Marks & Spencer, which stood at £2.7billion. Kate Middleton and Michelle Obama are two of its most famous clients. Griffiths started as a marketing director in 1996, and in four years launched Asos. But he only stayed with the company until 2005. By this time, its share price on the junior AIM market had tripled. He became richer by £15million from share sales in 2010, and cashed in more of them in 2013. Griffiths sued his accountants at BDO after he claimed their advice lost him more than £4million in tax on the sales of more than £10million of shares in Asos and Achica (online retailer co-founded by him). Griffiths moved to Thailand in 2007 after divorcing his first wife. He then married a Thai woman, and had two children with her. They have since separated.

Quentin Griffiths, who founded fashion label Asos, was found dead under the balcony of his apartment in Pattaya, Thailand. Police have not ruled out foul play, and an investigation has been launched—his personal life, net worth and more.

Asos millionaire Quentin Griffiths falls to his death under 'suspicious circumstances': Net worth and scandals

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has accused Thailand of occupying Cambodian territory, escalating tensions between the neighboring countries. Meanwhile, Hun Manet is visiting Washington, D.C. for a meeting with former President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” initiative.


Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute: Ceasefire Since December Remains 'Fragile'

Thailand’s caretaker Prime Minister announces a coalition deal with the Pheu Thai Party, as Bumjaithai joins the new government plan. Anutin Charnvirakul urges swift government formation to ensure stability amid ongoing political negotiations. Here’s the latest update on Thailand’s shifting political landscape.


Thailand Politics: Bumjaithai Seals Coalition Deal With Pheu Thai, Govt Formation Underway 

Several people were injured after a gunman opened fire at a school in Thailand’s Songkhla province. Police confirmed the suspect has been apprehended, and an investigation is underway to determine the motive behind the attack.

Thailand School Shooting: Several Injured, Suspect Nabbed 

A gunman attacked Patongprathankiriwat School in Songkhla's Hat Yai district, injuring at least three amid fears of higher casualties, per Thai media and Xinhua reports. Deputy Superintendent Wichian Soboon confirmed the suspect's custody after he stormed the premises Wednesday afternoon, holding students and teachers hostage.



Breaking: Thailand Shooting: Gunman Storms Thai School, Multiple Feared Dead |

Thai authorities arrested a 36-year-old Vietnamese man at Bangkok airport for smuggling six pieces of rhino horn and 12 kilograms of unidentified meat. The seizure highlights ongoing wildlife trafficking challenges in Southeast Asia and strict enforcement at international ports.


Thailand Arrests Vietnamese Man for Smuggling Rhino Horn, 12kg Meat Seized at Bangkok Airport

Thailand’s Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul says his party performed better than expected as conservative forces surge in the polls. With Bhumjaithai predicted to secure over 200 seats, Charnvirakul has signalled readiness for coalition talks following Sunday’s vote.


Thailand's Charnvirakul Ready For Coalition Talks?

Thailand Elections: PM Anutin Charnvirakul Readies For Coalition Talks?

Thailand Elections: Anutin Charnvirakul Signals Coalition Talks as Conservatives Surge 

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul has expressed readiness for coalition talks following recent election results. Charnvirakul acknowledged that the party received more support than expected, positioning them as a key player in forming the next government. Political analysts note that these negotiations could shape Thailand’s domestic policies, including economic recovery, public health, and infrastructure projects.

Thailand’s Anutin Charnvirakul Eyes Coalition Talks After Election Surprise

Millions of voters are casting ballots in Thailand in a snap general election held after a period of political instability that has seen three prime ministers in three years. The poll was called by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the country’s third leader since 2023. No party is expected to win an outright majority, making the formation of a coalition government likely. Opinion polls show the reformist People’s Party leading ahead of the vote, with its performance closely watched after it secured 151 seats in the 2023 election. Economic concerns have dominated the campaign, including sluggish growth, high household debt and rising living costs. The election also includes a referendum on rewriting Thailand’s military-backed constitution. Unofficial results are expected late Sunday, with vote counting set to conclude by night.


Thailand Votes After 3 Leaders in 2 Years 

Thailand's Democrat Party staged a strong comeback in the February 8, 2026 general election, regaining ground in Bangkok's 33 seats and their traditional Southern base after dismal 2023 results.


Thailand Elections 2026: Democrat Party Regains Strength in Bangkok

Thailand is going to hold snap elections amid political uncertainty after having three prime ministers in under three years. Border tensions with Cambodia and a high-stakes three-way contest dominated final campaign rallies in Bangkok ahead of polling day.


Thailand Heads to Snap Polls, Border Tensions And Power Struggle Dominate Campaign 

Thailand gears up for its high-stakes general election on Sunday, February 8, 2026, following the House dissolution on December 12, 2025, with former PM Abhisit Vejjajiva returning via the Democrat Party.



Thailand Braces for Feb 8 Poll Showdown: Abhisit Back in Fray

Thailand is preparing to vote in a high-stakes general election, with a fierce contest unfolding among progressive, populist and conservative parties. The vote is being closely watched as it is expected to shape the country’s political direction amid deep divisions over reform, governance and the role of traditional power centres.


Thailand Prepares for High-Stakes Election as Parties Battle for Power | Gravitas

Thailand has scheduled snap general elections for February 8, 2026, following the dissolution of parliament after the 2024 court ruling that disbanded the Move Forward Party; the progressive People's Party (its successor) currently leads polls amid border tensions with Cambodia.


Thailand Snap Vote: People's Party Leads Ahead of Feb 8 Polls

Thailand is set for snap elections on February 8, with a triangular contest between Bhumjaithai, Pheu Thai, and the People’s Party. Early polls indicate the People’s Party is in the lead. Watch for detailed analysis of party strengths, voter trends, and what this election could mean for Thailand’s political future.

Thailand Snap Polls Feb 8 People’s Party Leads Triangular Fight

Thailand has given a contraceptive vaccine to wild elephants for the first time in an effort to control their ballooning population, a conservation official said on Wednesday.

Thailand Deploys Contraceptives for Elephants; Blood Test to be Conducted Every Six Months

At least 16 Indian youth have been trafficked after being lured abroad with false job offers and taken to the Myanmar–Thailand border, according to reports.


Indian Youth Trafficked Abroad: 16 Lured To Myanmar, Thailand Border Reports Say

At least two people were killed after a highway construction crane collapsed near Bangkok, raising serious safety concerns as authorities revealed the same construction firm was linked to a separate crane failure a day earlier that left 32 people dead.

Thailand crane crash: Highway construction crane collapses in Bangkok suburbs kills two 

Thailand is set to hold direct elections for prime minister, with recent polls indicating a closely fought contest. The vote is being closely watched both domestically and internationally, as it could shape Thailand’s political future and regional stability. Stay tuned for updates on Thailand elections, candidates, and polling trends.

Thailand to Hold Direct PM Elections as Polls Show Close Contest

Tensions escalate along the Thailand–Cambodia border as Phnom Penh accuses Thailand of illegally annexing a border village. Cambodian authorities have condemned the move, calling it a violation of sovereignty, while the situation raises fresh concerns over regional stability. The dispute highlights long-standing border sensitivities between the two Southeast Asian neighbours.

Thailand-Cambodia Conflict: Cambodia Slams 'Thai Illegal Annexation' in Border Village 

Thailand and Cambodia said they have signed a ⁠ceasefire ​agreement to end weeks of fierce fighting along their border that has killed more than 100 people and displaced more than half a million civilians in both countries.

Thailand and Cambodia Agree on Ceasefire to End Weeks of Deadly Fighting 

Thailand on Dec 25 defended its military’s demolition of a Hindu statue along the border with Cambodia, saying the removal was carried out to assert control in a disputed frontier area.

Thailand-Cambodia Clash: Thailand Says Hindu Statue Removed to Control Border Area

thailand

Thailand, News on Thailand, stories on Thailand, articles on Thailand, Thailand stories at Wion, Thailand news, Thailand latest news