August 2025 - The Phuket Express

*The Phuket Express is your number one source for Real, Unbiased, Impactful, and In the moment breaking news based in Phuket, Thailand. Our news*

Published: 2026-03-15 01:23 UTC Event date: developing

Phuket Landlord Discovers Trash-Filled Rental Room After Tenant Departure

A landlord in Phuket was left shocked after discovering a rental room filled with trash, following the departure of a tenant described as "beautiful." The incident occurred earlier this week in a residential building in Phuket Town, where the landlord found the room in an unsanitary state after the tenant vacated without notice. The case has since drawn attention on social media, with photos of the trashed room circulating widely.

Shooting Clip Leads to Drug Bust and Arrest of Myanmar Nationals

Phuket authorities arrested several Myanmar nationals after a video clip of a shooting incident surfaced online, prompting a swift investigation. Police launched a raid on June 10, 2025, at a property in the Kathu district, where they apprehended three suspects and seized a quantity of illegal drugs. The Phuket Provincial Police confirmed that the individuals face multiple charges relating to drug possession and firearms offenses.

Phuket Hosts First Grand Ganesh Chaturthi and Volleyball World Championship

This month, Phuket marked two major events: the island’s first Grand Ganesh Chaturthi celebration and the Women’s Volleyball World Championship. The Ganesh Chaturthi festival, held at Saphan Hin on August 15, 2025, drew hundreds of participants from the local Hindu community and tourists. Meanwhile, the Women’s Volleyball World Championship took place from August 18-24, 2025, at the Phuket Sports Arena, attracting teams from over 12 countries and boosting local tourism.

Foreign Tourists Assault Lifeguards After Defying Safety Ban

Phuket officials are demanding legal action after a group of foreign tourists assaulted lifeguards at Patong Beach. The incident occurred on August 20, 2025, when tourists reportedly ignored a swimming ban due to dangerous surf conditions and attacked lifeguards who attempted to enforce the restrictions. The Phuket Lifeguard Service has filed a formal complaint, and police are reviewing security footage to identify those involved.

Authorities Investigate Hill Excavation in Kamala

Local authorities have launched an investigation into unauthorized hill excavation in Kamala, a popular area on Phuket’s west coast. The Phuket Land Office and Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation inspected the site on August 22, 2025, following reports of illegal land clearing and environmental concerns. Officials are assessing potential legal violations and environmental impact.

What to Watch For

These incidents highlight ongoing challenges in Phuket, from property management and tourism safety to environmental protection. Authorities are expected to provide updates on the drug bust, tourist assault investigation, and hill excavation probe in the coming weeks. The success of recent cultural and sporting events also underscores Phuket’s continued efforts to attract international visitors while addressing local issues.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2025/08/