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Thai Court Orders Yingluck to Pay 10 Billion Baht Over Rice Scheme Thailand’s Supreme Administrative Court has ordered former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to pay 10 billion baht (approx. $306 million) in damages linked to her government's rice-pledging scheme. The controversial programme, which aimed to support farmers by purchasing rice at above-market prices, was later criticised for corruption and major financial losses. The ruling partially overturns a previous court decision that annulled a 2016 Ministry of Finance order. Though less than the 35.7 billion baht originally sought, the verdict reignites debate over accountability and the political fallout from Yingluck’s tenure.

Pattaya Police Launch Major Crackdown on Prostitution to Safeguard City’s Image On 21 May 2025, Pattaya Police launched a large-scale operation to tackle prostitution along the city’s beachfront, aiming to protect its reputation as a tourist destination. Led by Pol. Col. Anek Sathongyoo, over 50 officers from various departments, including Tourist and Immigration Police, arrested more than 50 individuals—both female and transgender—linked to solicitation. The crackdown responds to growing concerns over rising criminal incidents tied to prostitution, particularly at night. Specialised teams were deployed for arrests and area containment, though some suspects escaped through alleyways. Those detained were sent to Pattaya Police Station for processing and legal action. The operation reflects authorities’ renewed commitment to restoring order and safety in the city.

‘Secret Club’ Spa Busted in Khon Kaen for Operating Illegal Gay Brothel Thai police raided a so-called spa named “Secret Club” in Khon Kaen on 21 May after discovering it was an illegal brothel catering to gay clients, especially foreign nationals. Operating under the guise of a wellness spa, it had openly advertised sexual services online. Undercover officers confirmed the operation when one was offered sex for 1,600 baht, triggering a full-scale raid. Five male sex workers—four Laotian and one Burmese—were arrested, along with the Thai manager. The foreigners face fines, deportation, and work bans, while the Burmese man also faces overstay charges. The manager was charged for harbouring undocumented workers. The owner’s identity remains undisclosed.

Thai Man Goes Viral for Riding Motorbike on a Mattress in Sisaket A man in Sisaket, Thailand, has become an overnight internet sensation after a video showed him riding a motorbike while lying face-down on a mattress. The viral clip—now viewed over 11 million times—features the rider calmly gripping the handlebars as he coasts along the road in an oddly relaxed, horizontal position. While netizens flooded social media with jokes about working and sleeping simultaneously, many also raised road safety concerns. Despite Thailand’s reputation for quirky motorbike modifications, this stunt stood out for its bizarre mix of comedy and recklessness. Authorities have yet to comment, but the ‘mattress man’ is now an unlikely online icon.

Tourist Flees Krabi Locals After Ignoring Park Rules and Insulting Rangers A foreign tourist visiting Krabi sparked outrage after violating rules at Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and provoking a group of angry Thai men. The tourist entered Maya Bay, which was closed to visitors, and reacted aggressively when warned by rangers—insulting them, cutting in line, and flipping his middle finger. Captured in a viral TikTok, he’s seen fleeing from locals attempting to confront him physically. Allegedly intoxicated, the man was later charged under the National Park Act, which carries fines of up to 100,000 baht. The incident follows another rule-breaking case involving a tourist feeding monkeys. Authorities say such behaviour threatens conservation efforts and disrespects local customs.

Thailand to Tighten Cannabis Laws with Medical Certification Requirement Thailand will require all cannabis users—locals and foreigners—to present a medical certificate within the next 40 days, as part of new regulations aimed at curbing recreational use. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin announced the move, marking a shift toward stricter control after the country’s 2022 cannabis decriminalisation. The new bill will mandate licensed medical use only, potentially introducing dosage limits and penalties, including imprisonment for non-compliance. Cannabis businesses will also face new licensing requirements. The change reflects a growing push to frame cannabis strictly as a health-focused product amid rising recreational use and political tension over the drug’s regulation.

The transcription below features top news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, ranging from Thailand’s move to tighten cannabis laws to a joint power grid upgrade by Malaysia and Thailand. Thailand to Tighten Cannabis Laws Thailand will soon require all cannabis users—locals and tourists—to present a medical certificate. The new law, taking effect in 40 days, aims to curb recreational use, with penalties including jail time and tighter business regulations. Yingluck Ordered to Pay 10 Billion Baht Thailand’s Supreme Administrative Court has ordered ex-PM Yingluck Shinawatra to pay 10 billion baht over losses from her government’s rice-pledging scheme. The ruling revives political debate over her controversial tenure. Pattaya Prostitution Crackdown Pattaya Police arrested over 50 people in a major beachfront crackdown on prostitution. The operation aims to protect the city’s tourist-friendly image amid rising crime linked to the sex trade. Tourist Sparks Outrage in Krabi A foreign tourist in Krabi was charged after insulting park rangers and violating national park rules. Caught on video, the man fled from angry locals after flipping them off and ignoring protected area closures. Illegal Gay Brothel Busted in Khon Kaen Police raided a spa in Khon Kaen operating as an illegal gay brothel. Five foreign sex workers and a Thai manager were arrested. Authorities say the venue openly advertised sexual services online. ‘Mattress Man’ Goes Viral in Sisaket A Thai man riding a motorbike while lying on a mattress has taken the internet by storm. The viral stunt raised road safety concerns, but netizens couldn’t get enough of his relaxed riding style. Press Groups Demand Cambodia Free Journalist Calls are growing for Cambodia to release journalist Ouk Mao, detained without a warrant while reporting on illegal logging. Advocates say his arrest signals an escalating crackdown on environmental reporters. Indonesia Faces Criticism Over Military Appointment Indonesia faces backlash after naming a convicted general to a key finance role. Human rights groups say the move undermines democracy and civilian rule, sparking concern ahead of the official appointment. Malaysia & Thailand to Upgrade Power Grid Malaysia and Thailand will modernize their cross-border power grid to meet rising energy demands and support renewables. The move supports ASEAN’s push for regional energy cooperation. Japan’s Agriculture Minister Resigns Over Rice Gaffe Japan’s Agriculture Minister Taku Etō has stepped down after saying he never buys rice—amid soaring prices. His replacement, Shinjirō Koizumi, now faces a ministry in crisis as public discontent grows.

Korat Zoo Celebrates First Giant Tortoise Hatchlings in Thailand Korat Zoo in Nakhon Ratchasima has successfully hatched 11 Aldabra giant tortoise babies — a first for Thailand. The rare hatchlings, born on May 18, are healthy and under expert care in a nursery. Zoo director Thanachon Kensingh hails it as a major conservation milestone. The offspring came from just three adult tortoises, and once grown, will become a public attraction. Native to the Seychelles, Aldabra tortoises can live up to 150 years and weigh over 250kg. This success places Korat Zoo on the global map for wildlife conservation and education.

Overstaying Russian Arrested After Hiding in Koh Phangan Temple A 30-year-old Russian man, Maksim Abroskin, was arrested on Koh Phangan after overstaying his Thai tourist visa by 194 days. Having lived in Wat Sri Thanu temple for over eight months, Abroskin survived on donations and raised concerns among locals, prompting a report to authorities. Immigration officials confirmed his illegal stay during a raid led by Surat Thani’s governor. Now in custody, Abroskin faces deportation and legal action. The case underscores Thailand’s firm stance on visa compliance, especially in tourist hubs like Koh Phangan, and highlights the role of community cooperation in immigration enforcement.

Pattaya’s Dining Sector Faces Collapse Without Urgent Support Pattaya’s restaurant industry is facing a severe crisis, with soaring costs and dwindling consumer spending threatening to push many businesses to collapse. Sorrathep Steve, head of the Restaurant Business Club, warns 2025 could be worse than the pandemic era unless urgent government action is taken. He’s calling for energy price controls, dining tax deductions, social security relief, and tourism incentives. Rising gas, ingredient costs, and labour shortages have led to revenue drops of over 50% for many eateries. Without intervention, Sorrathep says, Thailand risks losing a vital economic driver linked to one of its largest supply chains.

Croatian Man Caught Running Illegal Tour Business in Chiang Mai A Croatian man named Mr. Andre has been arrested in Chiang Mai for running an illegal tour business and working without a permit. Authorities say he operated a tour sales office in the tourist-heavy Chang Khlan area without proper licensing. The arrest follows weeks of surveillance and is part of a wider government crackdown on unlicensed foreign tour operators to protect local jobs. Mr. Andre faces charges that could lead to fines up to 500,000 baht. He has been handed over to police for further legal action.

Royal Thai Navy Nabs Indonesian Boats in High-Seas Sting The Royal Thai Navy has seized two Indonesian fishing boats and arrested 18 crew members for illegally operating in Thai waters near Phuket. Acting on a tip-off, the HTMS Longlom intercepted the vessels 80 nautical miles southwest of Phuket on May 19. The operation was part of Thailand’s “Seal, Stop, Save” maritime security campaign. Despite rough seas, the boats were escorted to Thap Lamu Pier, where the crew was handed over for legal proceedings. Authorities stress that illegal fishing threatens marine ecosystems, the economy, and national security, and call on locals to report suspicious maritime activity.

Bangkok Ranked Among World’s Top Tourist Scam Hotspots Bangkok has been named one of the world’s top hotspots for tourist scams, particularly involving taxis, car rentals, and fake tour bookings. A Mastercard Economics Institute report shows fraud spikes by up to 28% during peak travel seasons, with 48% of Bangkok’s cases tied to dodgy transport deals. Other Thai destinations like Phuket also see scams in hotel bookings. The report contrasts this with safer cities like Dublin and Seoul, while warning of rising global travel fraud—especially during holiday bookings. Tourists are urged to book through secure platforms and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia. Highlights include Bangkok being ranked among the world’s top tourist scam hotspots and Malaysia considering a vape ban due to health concerns. 1. Bangkok Among World’s Top Tourist Scam Hotspots Bangkok ranks among the worst global cities for tourist scams, with fraud peaking during holidays. Transport and fake tour deals top the list. 2. Croatian Man Arrested for Illegal Tours in Chiang Mai Police arrest a Croatian man in Chiang Mai for operating a tour business without a permit, amid a wider crackdown on foreign-run operations. 3. Russian Man Caught Overstaying Visa on Koh Phangan Immigration officials arrest a Russian man hiding in a Koh Phangan temple after overstaying his visa by 194 days. He faces deportation. 4. Navy Seizes Indonesian Boats in Thai Waters The Royal Thai Navy intercepts two Indonesian fishing boats near Phuket, detaining 18 crew members in a high-seas anti-poaching operation. 5. Pattaya Restaurants Face Collapse Without Aid Pattaya’s dining sector warns of collapse due to rising costs and falling revenue. Industry leaders urge immediate government support. 6. Korat Zoo Welcomes Thailand’s First Giant Tortoise Hatchlings Korat Zoo celebrates the birth of 11 Aldabra tortoise hatchlings — a conservation first for Thailand. The species is native to Seychelles. 7. Cambodia’s PM Declares Full Democratic Freedoms Hun Manet says Cambodians enjoy full freedoms under his leadership, citing rights to education, religion, and safe travel. 8. Myanmar Rebels Accuse India of Torture, Executions Myanmar resistance groups accuse Indian troops of torturing and killing 10 rebels near the Manipur border. India denies the claims. 9. Vietnam Jails 23 in Rare Earth Corruption Case Vietnam sentences 23 people, including a former deputy minister, for illegally mining rare earths, earning US$30M mainly from China sales. 10. Malaysian State Mulls Vape Ban Over Health Risks Negeri Sembilan considers banning vape sales, joining other states citing youth health concerns and rising cases of dangerous vape products.

Thailand Relaxes Alcohol Laws, Sparking Public Safety Concerns Thailand has relaxed its alcohol laws as of 13 May, easing licensing rules to support small brewers and boost economic growth, particularly in rural areas. The move is expected to help local craft producers expand and compete internationally. However, the Alcohol Watch Network has voiced strong concerns, warning that easier access could lead to more alcohol-related deaths, traffic accidents, and public health costs. With Thailand already reporting one of Asia’s highest road death rates, critics urge the government to monitor the impact closely and ensure safety measures keep pace with economic liberalisation.

Pattaya Named Among ASEAN’s Safest Cities for 2025 Pattaya has earned a spot among ASEAN’s Top 10 Safest Cities for 2025, ranking 9th with a Safety Index score of 53.9, according to global database Numbeo. Known more for its nightlife than safety, the city’s inclusion signals a dramatic image shift driven by enhanced infrastructure, policing, and family-friendly tourism efforts. Chiang Mai topped the list, followed by Singapore and Davao. Bangkok also made the top 10. The recognition supports Thailand’s broader tourism push, with nearly 13 million visitors already in 2024 and ambitious targets for year-end arrivals and revenue. A stronger safety reputation could be key to reaching them.

Thai Mother Arrested for Forcing 11-Year-Old Daughter into Prostitution A 13-year-old girl in Hua Hin has revealed she was forced into prostitution at age 11 by her mother and aunt to pay for drugs and daily loan debts. The abuse came to light after she confided in her father, who contacted the Pavena Foundation. Both the girl and her younger sister have been taken into protective care. The mother has been arrested and confessed to arranging multiple encounters with a 50-year-old man for cash. She faces charges of human trafficking and child exploitation. Police are pursuing the aunt and the man involved as the investigation continues.

Australian Caught with 22kg of Crystal Meth at Bangkok Airport Australian national Tran Huybao Khang, 28, was arrested at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport after authorities discovered 22kg of crystal meth—known as "ice"—in his luggage. Caught before boarding a flight to Melbourne, Khang's bags were flagged by the airport’s X-ray system. The drugs, worth around 6.6 million baht locally and up to 23 million baht in Australia, are believed to be linked to an international drug syndicate. The bust highlights Thailand’s intensified efforts to crack down on smuggling via air routes, with investigations now underway into the network behind the shipment.

Ex-Air Hostess Arrested in Sri Lanka with £1.5M Worth of Cannabis Former British air hostess Charlotte May Lee, 21, has been arrested in Sri Lanka after customs officers at Colombo Airport discovered 46kg of high-grade Kush cannabis—worth £1.5 million—in her luggage from Bangkok. Authorities say it’s the airport’s biggest Kush bust and suspect organised crime involvement. Once employed by TUI and recently working as a lash technician, Lee had been celebrating her birthday in Thailand before returning abroad. Her arrest shocked friends and family, who described her as hardworking and upbeat. The UK Foreign Office is offering consular support as the investigation unfolds.

UK Teen Faces Life in Georgian Prison Over Cannabis Smuggling UK teenager Bella Culley, 18, reported missing during a solo trip to Thailand, has been found in Georgia—under arrest for allegedly smuggling 14kg of cannabis products. She was caught at Tbilisi airport with 12kg of marijuana and 2kg of hashish and now faces charges that carry a possible sentence of 20 years to life. Currently held in pre-trial detention until July 1, Culley appeared visibly distressed in court and is reportedly pregnant. Her family has travelled to Georgia, but hasn't yet been allowed to visit her. British and Georgian legal teams are now involved in the high-stakes case.

This transcription features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, covering topics from the arrest of a UK teen in Georgia for cannabis smuggling to mass protests by Indonesian gig workers over high platform fees. UK Teen Arrested in Georgia Over Cannabis Smuggling An 18-year-old British woman reported missing in Thailand has been found detained in Georgia, accused of smuggling 14kg of cannabis. She faces up to life in prison. Ex-Air Hostess Caught with £1.5M of Cannabis in Sri Lanka A former British air hostess was arrested at Colombo Airport after customs found 46kg of Kush cannabis in her luggage. Authorities suspect organized crime links. Australian Arrested with 22kg of Meth at Bangkok Airport An Australian man was caught with 22kg of crystal meth before boarding a flight to Melbourne. Thai officials suspect ties to an international drug syndicate. Thai Mother Arrested for Forcing Daughter into Prostitution A Hua Hin mother has been arrested for forcing her 11-year-old daughter into prostitution. The case came to light after the girl confided in her father. Pattaya Named Among ASEAN’s Safest Cities for 2025 Pattaya ranks 9th in ASEAN’s Safest Cities for 2025, reflecting major improvements in safety, infrastructure, and family-friendly tourism. Thailand Eases Alcohol Laws, Sparks Safety Concerns New alcohol regulations aimed at helping small brewers raise concerns from public health groups, citing risks of increased road deaths and accidents. Cambodia Marks 50 Years Since Khmer Rouge’s Rise Cambodia held a Day of Remembrance to mark 50 years since the Khmer Rouge’s rise, honouring victims through performances and survivor testimonies. Indonesian Gig Workers Protest High Platform Fees Drivers across Indonesia protested against GoJek and Grab, demanding a 10% cap on commission fees amid rising fuel and vehicle maintenance costs.

Thailand Eyes 10-Year Visa and 99-Year Land Leases to Boost Economy Thailand is proposing a 10-year tourist visa and 99-year land leases to attract long-term foreign residents and boost its economy. Announced by Deputy PM Pichai Chunhavajira, the plan aims to revitalise tourism, attract investment, and stimulate sectors like tech, EVs, and logistics. The proposals, tied to broader infrastructure and digital upgrades, are part of a strategy to counter global economic pressures. Further discussions will define responsibilities and funding. The government hopes these long-term measures will position Thailand as a top destination for international work, living, and investment.

Phuket Prepares to Host Major Pride Parade Celebrating LGBTQ+ Rights Phuket will host City Pride 2025 on June 28, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community under the theme Wave of Generations. Organised by the Phuket City Municipality with support from government, private, and community sectors, the event will feature a 500-person rainbow parade starting at Queen Sirikit Park and ending in Old Town. Highlights include art installations, interactive zones, and a concert by top artists. The event promotes diversity, equal rights, and tourism, reinforcing Phuket’s image as an inclusive and welcoming destination. Over 800 parking spaces have been arranged to accommodate attendees.

Bangkok MRT Worker Trapped in Landslide During Construction Accident A construction worker is missing after a landslide at the MRT Orange Line site on Lan Luang Road in Bangkok on May 19. The worker fell into a 19-metre-deep pit and was buried under soil, prompting an urgent rescue operation by the Ruam Katanyu Foundation. The incident occurred at the future Lan Luang MRT station, part of a project expected to be completed by 2030. Officials from the Mass Rapid Transit Authority have pledged a full investigation while maintaining that safety protocols were in place. The rescue mission is ongoing with no further updates yet released.

Tourists and Transgender Group Clash in Violent Pattaya Beach Brawl A violent brawl broke out on Pattaya Beach around 4:15 a.m. on May 19 between a group of transgender individuals and several foreign tourists, reportedly Israeli nationals. The fight began after a dispute over a 3,000 baht transaction for sexual services turned sour when the tourists, appearing intoxicated, demanded a refund. A bottle attack escalated the situation, which was caught on video. A local delivery rider trying to intervene was also assaulted. Police arrived to break up the fight and have since launched an investigation, reviewing CCTV footage and questioning both parties to determine legal outcomes.