Law and Crime

Fire Incidents Cost Laos Over USD 14 Million in First Half of 2026

Fire incidents across Laos claimed eight lives and destroyed homes, businesses, and vehicles during the first half of 2026, leaving behind more than LAK 319.6 billion (USD 14.3 million) in damage, according to new government figures. The Fire Prevention and Suppression Police Department recorded 144 fires nationwide between January and...

Laos Seizes More Than 110 Kilograms of Suspected Wildlife Products in Luang Prabang

Lao authorities have seized more than 110 kilograms of suspected illegal wildlife products and...

Former EDL Executives, Senior Officials Get Life in Landmark Laos Corruption Cases

On 1 July, the Vientiane Capital People’s Court announced verdicts in four major corruption...

Laos Raises Tax-Free Income Threshold Under New Personal Income Tax Rules

Laos has officially raised the monthly income exempt from personal income tax from LAK...

Sekong Police Raid Scam Hub, Arrest 101 Foreign Nationals

On 22 June, Sekong provincial authorities arrested 101 foreign nationals after raiding a scam...

Wild Elephant Raids Isan Restaurant Multiple Times in Thailand

A wild elephant in Thailand has repeatedly raided a popular Isan restaurant near Khao Yai National Park, with three incidents reported within less than...

Attapeu Cracks Down on Illegal Gold Mining, Fishing

Authorities in Attapeu Province announced the results of two enforcement operations carried out from 16 to 24 February in Xaysettha district, targeting illegal gold...

Laos Audit Body Uncovers LAK 37,600 Billion in Budget Violations Over Five Years

Laos’ State Audit Organization (SAO) uncovers LAK 37,600 billion (approx. USD 1.8 billion) in budget discipline violations over the past five years, SAO’s president...

Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Fuel Sales Across Sekong, Attapeu, Champasak Amid Ongoing Shortages

Authorities across Sekong, Attapeu, and Champasak provinces have stepped up efforts to address illegal fuel sales as ongoing shortages and price hikes continue to...

Man Arrested for Murder, Dismemberment of Lao Woman in Thailand

A Lao national has been arrested at the Nong Khai border checkpoint while allegedly attempting to flee to Laos, after the dismembered remains of...

Laos Reviews Minimum Wage Increase as Living Costs Rise

Lao authorities are reviewing a proposed increase to the national minimum wage, with figures under discussion reaching up to LAK 4.1 million (USD 190)...