Mukdahan border crackdown on avocado smuggling nets tonnes of contraband

12 Sept 05:45 Key points summarised by AI

Mukdahan border security forces intensified a crackdown on a major avocado smuggling network along the Mekong River, following complaints of over 40 tonnes illegally funnelled daily.
Rangers and the Mekong Riverine Unit intercepted multiple operations, apprehending suspects offloading crates from boats and seizing thousands of kilograms of illicit avocados.
The smuggled avocados, originating from Vietnam and China, pose a significant threat by disrupting domestic agricultural prices and impacting Thai farmers.
Authorities have seized over 35 tonnes of illegal avocados this year, with all confiscated goods destroyed to comply with strict plant disease prevention measures and import regulations.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.