The men also had illegal firearms, tools to modify pistols and narcotics in their possession.

Chaos erupted at the Siam Paragon mall in Bangkok close to peak hours, with hundreds fleeing as gunshots rang out.

Police say the teenager had been receiving psychiatric treatment, but had skipped his prescribed medicine on the day of the incident.

This includes pursuing more free trade agreements.

The verdict was the first of 14 lese majeste cases against the activist, one of hundreds of people who have been charged under the law, among the strictest of its kind in the world.

Tourism is a crucial driver of Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, best known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Fresh foreign investment would boost Thailand's flagging economy, which is expected to grow by 2.8% this year, less than previously projected, due to weaker exports.

Chaithawat Tulathon, a former political magazine editor, will head Move Forward, which won the most seats in parliament on a wave of youth and urban support over its anti-establishment policies.

Srettha Thavisin says he spoke with Musk about EV manufacturer Tesla and his rocket and satellite company SpaceX, including its internet venture Starlink.

Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to decriminalise cannabis, but in the absence of specific measures, the government had to hastily issue rules to prevent its unchecked use, particularly among children.

Marine scientists say some areas in the Gulf of Thailand have more than 10 times the normal amount of plankton, turning the water a bright green and killing off marine life.

Srettha and his government have promised to revive the economy with a series of policies including suspending debts for farmers, raising minimum wages and providing handouts via digital wallets.