Suthon, known as "Uncle Jae", a 68-year-old man, lived alone in a rented room for 1,500 baht (approximately USD 40) per month in San Pa Tong district, Chiang Mai province. He earned a living doing odd jobs, making around 350 baht (approximately USD 9.50) daily. His life took a dramatic turn on 1/12 when three lottery tickets he purchased won the jackpot, totaling 18 million baht (approximately USD 488,000).

As news of his win spread, relatives from across the country converged on his cramped rental room. Many offered to take him in and care for him, but internal family disputes quickly emerged as they could not agree on where the "new millionaire" should reside.

The situation escalated further when representatives from two different banks also arrived at his residence, attempting to persuade him to deposit his winnings with them. Arguments ensued over which bank he should choose. Ultimately, Suthon was escorted to a bank branch in Lamphun city center to complete the prize claim procedures.

Suthon, 68, holds his winning lottery ticket, 12/2025. *Photo: Khaosod*.

Chaiyavej Boonthima, the head of Ban Piang village, stated that the Chiang Mai social welfare office had previously approved 40,000 baht (approximately USD 1,085) to build a charity home for Suthon. However, upon learning of his sudden fortune, officials decided to reallocate these funds to individuals facing more severe hardship.

According to Chaiyavej, Suthon's current landlord offered to sell him the rented house for over 2 million baht (approximately USD 54,200). The village head advised Suthon to purchase the property as a long-term rental investment and to manage his expenditures wisely to avoid being exploited.

By Nhat Minh (According to Thethaiger)