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Snake Handler Saves Satun Family from Giant King Cobras A prominent snake handler, Bang Ya Bongla King, rescued a family in Satun province after two giant king cobras built a nest and laid 29 eggs near their rubber plantation. The snakes, measuring 4 metres and 3 metres, had halted the family's rubber-tapping activities since March. Assisted by rescue volunteers, Bang Ya successfully relocated the snakes and their eggs, allowing the family to safely return to work. The incident sparked community excitement and relief, highlighting the complex relationship between local livelihoods and wildlife. Similar cobra relocations previously occurred in Songkhla, emphasising ongoing challenges with wildlife coexistence.

Phuket Fire Destroys Motorbikes, Damages Burger King Sign An early morning electrical fire in Phuket caused chaos today as flames engulfed two motorbikes and damaged the signage of a Burger King on Kata Road, Karon. Believed to have started from an electrical short circuit on a power pole around 5.35am, the blaze quickly spread, destroying two bikes and damaging two more. Although no injuries were reported, the incident reignited safety concerns about Phuket’s overcrowded utility poles tangled with cables. Emergency responders swiftly extinguished the fire, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause and extent of the damage.

Bangkok Building Collapse: Death Toll Rises to 23, 71 Missing A tragic building collapse in Bangkok's Chatuchak district has claimed 23 lives, with 71 people still missing two weeks after a powerful 8.2-magnitude earthquake near Mandalay, Myanmar triggered the disaster. Rescue operations continue amid challenging conditions. Heartbreakingly, one father has stood vigil for 13 consecutive nights, awaiting news of his 17-year-old daughter, whose first day of work coincided with the tragedy. Volunteers provide basic amenities to families near the site as the incident highlights the devastating human toll of disasters.

Thai Youths Warned Against Racy Songkran Selfies and Alcohol Pics Thai authorities have issued a firm warning to young people ahead of the Songkran water festival, cautioning against posting inappropriate selfies and alcohol-related images online. Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukul Pruksanusak emphasised that posting revealing or suggestive photos, alcohol promotion, or immoral content could lead to severe penalties, including jail terms and substantial fines. Authorities stress the importance of celebrating respectfully, reflecting traditional Thai values, and caution that one inappropriate upload could result in serious legal consequences. The warning highlights the fine line between festive fun and legal violations during Thailand’s popular celebrations.

Chinese Couple Arrested for Explicit Public Photo Shoot in Pattaya Pattaya police have arrested a Chinese tourist couple after they were caught filming an explicit photoshoot on a public pavement in broad daylight. Mr Jiang, 67, and Miss Ping, 35, were reported by community security volunteers and quickly detained by Tourist Police. Jiang, a photographer, admitted staging nude shoots at various global tourist spots and claimed ignorance of Thai law, apologising for causing offence. The couple now faces legal proceedings, highlighting the need for tourists to respect local laws and customs when abroad.

The following transcription features top news stories from across Thailand, as covered on Good Morning Thailand with hosts Alex and Jay. From the tragic Bangkok building collapse to the arrest of a Russian YouTuber in the Philippines, the stories highlight key developments making headlines in the region. 1. Bangkok Building Collapse: Death Toll Rises 23 dead and 71 still missing after a building collapse in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, triggered by an 8.2-magnitude quake near Myanmar. Rescue efforts continue as families hold vigil, including a father waiting 13 nights for news of his daughter. 2. Phuket Fire Damages Burger King Sign An early morning blaze in Phuket destroyed two motorbikes and damaged a Burger King sign on Kata Road. The fire, caused by an electrical short, reignited concerns over tangled utility poles. 3. Thai Youths Warned Over Songkran Selfies Authorities warn young Thais against posting racy selfies and alcohol-related content during Songkran. Offenders could face fines or jail time for violating morality and alcohol promotion laws. 4. Snake Handler Rescues Family from Giant Cobras A famous snake handler in Satun removed two massive king cobras and 29 eggs from a family’s rubber plantation. The rescue brought relief and excitement to the community. 5. Chinese Couple Arrested for Nude Photos in Pattaya A Chinese tourist couple was arrested in Pattaya for filming a public nude photoshoot. Police say the act violated Thai decency laws. The couple now faces legal action. 6. Chiang Mai Plans Record-Breaking Dance Event Over 20,000 performers will gather in Chiang Mai on April 19 to attempt the world’s largest traditional fingernail dance, celebrating the city’s 729th anniversary and promoting its cultural heritage. 7. Australian Girl Dies in Singapore School Fire A 10-year-old Australian girl has died in a fire at a Singapore cooking school. Over 20 others were injured. Investigations point to safety violations in the building. 8. US-Vietnam Trade Talks Begin as Tariffs Paused The US and Vietnam are starting trade talks after the US paused major tariffs. Vietnam also signed two aviation deals worth $860 million to strengthen ties and reduce trade imbalance. 9. Russian YouTuber Arrested in Philippines Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, a Russian prank YouTuber, was arrested in the Philippines for harassment and theft during livestreams. Authorities plan to prosecute him locally to uphold respect for their laws.

Public Outcry in Chiang Mai After G-String Dancer Performs on Raft A viral video showing a G-string-clad coyote dancer performing provocatively on a public raft along Chiang Mai's Ping River has sparked public outrage. The dancer was filmed near families and children during a community day out, prompting criticism over the act’s appropriateness in a family-friendly setting. Authorities claim the event had official approval, but raft operators denied hiring the dancer. An online disclaimer promised more modest attire in the future. With investigations underway, many argue the incident crosses a line, especially in a space meant for wholesome tourism. It marks the first such performance on the rafts, raising concerns nationwide.

Drunk Passenger Urinates on Co-Flyer During Delhi-Bangkok Air India Flight A 24-year-old Indian man, Tushar Masand, allegedly urinated on a Japanese businessman during an Air India flight from Delhi to Bangkok. Masand, reportedly intoxicated after consuming two glasses of single malt, relieved himself on the co-flyer seated next to him. Air India confirmed "unruly behaviour" but didn’t specify the act in their official statement. Masand has been banned from flying with Air India for 30 days, pending review by an independent committee. The affected passenger declined further assistance upon landing. Authorities have been notified, and India's Civil Aviation Ministry has promised action if any wrongdoing is confirmed. Similar incidents have occurred on Air India flights in recent years.

Drunk Foreigner Causes Chaos and Chases Local Man in Phuket A drunken foreigner sparked chaos near Phuket's Rang Hill on April 4 by wandering into homes and shouting incoherently, then chasing a Thai man who tried to calm him. The victim escaped unscathed, with video evidence later shared online showing the man’s erratic behaviour, including shadowboxing and lewd gestures. The incident has drawn criticism of local police for their absence and reignited debate over Thailand's free-visa policy, which some blame for a rise in foreign misconduct. Tensions were already high after a separate April 6 assault involving another foreigner and Thai motorists, prompting calls for stricter law enforcement.

Ex-Israeli Commando Arrested for Illegal Guiding on Koh Phangan A 45-year-old former Israeli commando, identified as David, was arrested on Koh Phangan for illegally working as a tour guide without a licence. Thai Tourism Police caught him leading foreign children on tours to sites like Wat Maduea Wan and Wang Sai Waterfall. He had been advertising his services via a WhatsApp group called “Nature Trips with Uncle,” charging up to 8,000 baht weekly. Authorities charged him with working without authorisation and launched broader efforts to curb illegal foreign activity ahead of Songkran, aiming to protect local jobs and maintain Thailand’s image as a safe, law-abiding destination.

Earthquake in Bangkok Leaves Dozens of Buildings Closed After Safety Checks Following a recent earthquake, Bangkok officials assessed 7,649 buildings over 12 days, deeming 7,200 safe, 389 moderately damaged, and 60 structurally unsafe and closed. Inspections, led by the Department of Public Works, covered public facilities, high-rise structures, and residential buildings. Authorities issued a directive on March 31 mandating checks on large private properties, with 2,470 reports submitted out of 11,000 identified buildings. In Bangkok’s neighbourhoods, nearly all of 18,837 damage reports have been resolved. Nationwide, 7,049 buildings across 76 provinces were checked, with 58 closed. A 24-hour hotline is available for advice, and buildings are classified using a colour-coded damage status system.

British Man in Critical Condition After Russian Roulette Incident in Pattaya A British man named Michael is in critical condition after allegedly shooting himself in the forehead during a game of Russian roulette in Pattaya on April 8. The incident occurred at a condominium, where police found drug paraphernalia, used nitrous oxide balloons, and a .38 calibre revolver. Michael had reportedly used cannabis and laughing gas before suggesting the game. His Lithuanian roommate, Mr. J, claimed he declined to participate and later heard the gunshot. Emergency responders performed CPR before rushing Michael to the hospital. Police are investigating the firearm’s origin and conducting forensic tests to determine the full sequence of events.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, as covered in the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex and Jay. Highlights include a British man critically injured in a Russian roulette incident in Pattaya and a volcanic eruption in the Philippines that sent ash 2.5 miles into the sky. 1. British Man Critical After Russian Roulette Incident in Pattaya A British man is in critical condition after allegedly shooting himself during a game of Russian roulette in Pattaya. Drugs and a revolver were found at the scene. Police are investigating. 2. Drunken Foreigner Causes Panic in Phuket A foreigner sparked chaos near Rang Hill, Phuket, by trespassing, shouting incoherently, and chasing a Thai man. The incident raised criticism of Thailand’s visa policy and lax enforcement. 3. Bangkok Closes 60 Buildings After Quake Safety Checks After a recent earthquake, Bangkok officials inspected over 7,000 buildings, shutting down 60 deemed unsafe. Damage assessments continue across Thailand. 4. Ex-Israeli Commando Arrested for Illegal Tour Guiding A former Israeli soldier was arrested on Koh Phangan for illegally guiding children on nature tours. Authorities are cracking down on unlicensed foreign workers ahead of Songkran. 5. Public Outrage Over G-String Dancer on Chiang Mai Raft A viral video of a dancer in a G-string performing on a family raft in Chiang Mai has caused national outrage. Officials are investigating and promise stricter oversight. 6. Drunk Passenger Urinates on Co-Flyer During Air India Flight An intoxicated Indian man urinated on a fellow passenger during a flight from Delhi to Bangkok. He’s been banned from flying with Air India for 30 days pending investigation. 7. Cambodian General Removed Over TikTok Scandal A Cambodian brigadier general was dismissed after a TikTok video showed him behaving inappropriately. The act was deemed damaging to the military’s image. 8. Indonesia to Host 1,000 Injured and Orphaned Palestinians Indonesia will temporarily shelter 1,000 injured and orphaned Palestinians from Gaza. The move is part of a humanitarian initiative coordinated with Middle Eastern nations. 9. Xi Jinping to Visit Malaysia Amid Trade Tensions Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Malaysia from April 15–17 as regional economies face rising US tariffs. The visit aims to strengthen China-Malaysia relations. 10. Philippine Volcano Erupts, Sends Ash 2.5 Miles High Kanlaon Volcano erupted on Tuesday, launching ash into the sky and prompting school closures. No injuries were reported due to prior evacuations.

Pattaya Leads Songkran Tourism as Other Cities Struggle While many Thai tourist spots face low hotel bookings this Songkran, Pattaya is booming. Despite nationwide concerns—such as sluggish Chinese tourism and the recent earthquake—Pattaya is expecting up to 500,000 visitors daily, with 4-star hotels nearly full. Events like Wan Lai Pattaya are drawing huge crowds, helping generate billions of baht. In contrast, Chiang Mai and Bangkok are seeing steep booking declines, down 67% and 31% respectively. Meanwhile, Phuket and Hat Yai also show strong numbers, thanks in part to Malaysian tourists. Pattaya’s cultural focus and vibrant festivities have made it the standout destination.

Chiang Mai Eatery Draws Backlash for “Skinny Discount” Promotion Chiang Mai Breakfast World has sparked global controversy with its “skinny discount” promotion, offering up to 20% off meals for diners who can squeeze through narrow metal bars. The viral challenge, shared by travel bloggers Amina and Alex, has drawn millions of views and ignited criticism for promoting body-shaming and unhealthy ideals. While some defend it as light-hearted fun, others deem it fatphobic and discriminatory. Despite the backlash, the restaurant maintains high TripAdvisor ratings. The incident echoes similar past stunts in Asia, fuelling a wider debate on body image and marketing ethics.

Thai Airways Places Major Boeing Order to Expand Fleet Thai Airways is set to modernise and expand its fleet by acquiring 45 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, boosting its total aircraft from 85 to 116 by 2027 and targeting 150 by 2033. CEO Chai Eamsiri says the deal, finalised at the Singapore Airshow, supports both the airline’s growth and Thailand’s strategy to ease the US trade deficit by importing American products. Deliveries begin in 2027, with advanced GEnx engines powering the jets. THAI will also lease or hire-purchase 35 more aircraft to improve financial efficiency and flexibility in response to global market demands.

British Tourist Arrested for Overstaying Visa in Thailand A 45-year-old British woman was arrested at Phuket International Airport on April 7 for overstaying her Thai visa by 207 days. Immigration officers detained her at the international terminal while she was attempting to leave the country. Her identity has not been disclosed, and the reason for her prolonged stay remains unclear. Authorities have not confirmed whether she had previously contacted immigration to resolve her status. The case underscores Thailand’s strict enforcement of immigration laws and the consequences of long-term overstays.

Thai Stock Market Suffers Sharp Drop Amid US Tariff Fallout Thailand’s stock market plunged on April 8, with the SET Index dropping 42.30 points (3.76%) amid fears of a global trade war sparked by new US tariffs. The sell-off, led by major firms like Gulf Energy and Kasikornbank, followed a three-day trading break. In response, the Stock Exchange of Thailand introduced temporary restrictions on short selling and narrowed trading bands to curb volatility. The US has imposed a 36% tariff on Thai goods, pressuring investor confidence already weakened by falling profits and economic uncertainty. The SET is down nearly 20% this year, hitting a five-year low.

American Academic Denied Bail Under Thailand’s Royal Defamation Law American scholar Dr Paul Chambers, known for his research on Thai military-civilian relations, has been denied bail after being charged under Thailand’s strict lese majeste law (Section 112) and the Computer Crime Act. Arrested following a complaint by the Third Army Region, he is accused of defaming the monarchy and spreading false information harmful to national security. The arrest, made without a prior subpoena, has drawn criticism from rights groups and politicians who view it as an attack on academic freedom and freedom of expression in Thailand.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented on the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. Highlights include an American academic denied bail under Thailand’s royal defamation law and the Philippines declaring April 9 a national holiday to honour World War II veterans. American Academic Denied Bail Under Thai Royal Defamation Law Dr Paul Chambers was denied bail after being charged under Section 112 and the Computer Crime Act. Rights groups call it an attack on academic freedom. Thai Stock Market Plunges on US Tariff Concerns The SET Index dropped 3.76% after the US imposed a 36% tariff on Thai goods. Short-selling was temporarily restricted. British Tourist Caught Overstaying Thai Visa by 207 Days Immigration arrested a British woman at Phuket Airport for overstaying. Her identity and reasons for the long stay remain unclear. Thai Airways Orders 45 Boeing Dreamliners to Expand Fleet Thai Airways will boost its fleet from 85 to 116 aircraft by 2027. The move supports growth and US trade deficit reduction goals. Chiang Mai Eatery Slammed for “Skinny Discount” Stunt A viral promotion offering discounts to thin diners sparked global backlash over body-shaming. The restaurant still holds high ratings. Pattaya Tops Songkran Tourism as Other Cities See Slump Pattaya expects 500,000 daily visitors during Songkran, while Chiang Mai and Bangkok report major drops in hotel bookings. Indonesian Markets Crash, Rupiah Hits Historic Low Indonesia’s stock index dropped 9.2%, halting trade. The rupiah fell to 16,850 per dollar after US tariffs sparked market panic. Vietnamese Student Visas to US Reach 10-Year High The US granted 18,600 visas to Vietnamese students in FY2024—a 27% jump. They now make up 22,000 of 1 million foreign students. Cambodia to Build $70M Park in Phnom Penh PM Hun Manet approved a 70-hectare public park in Kob Srov to promote green spaces, recreation, and climate resilience. April 9 Declared Philippine Holiday to Honour WWII Veterans The Philippines marks the Day of Valor, commemorating the Fall of Bataan and the Bataan Death March with national events.

TikTok Star Slammed for Ignoring Injured Dog After Crash A car crash involving transgender TikTok star Nungty in Chiang Mai has sparked online controversy after she and her friend denied responsibility for an injured stray dog. A witness, Supithan, filmed the confrontation and accused them of ignoring the dog, focusing only on car damage. Nungty insisted she checked on the dog and waited for insurance, claiming she didn’t know what else to do. Netizens are split—some criticise Nungty’s lack of compassion, others defend her actions or question Supithan’s filming. Supithan later brought the dog to a clinic, but its condition remains serious with potential long-term disability.

Factory Bus Crashes in Ayutthaya, Injuring Over 20 Workers A factory shuttle bus in Ayutthaya veered off the Asia Highway and crashed into a ditch on April 7, injuring 21 workers—20 women and one man. The bus, which served employees from Rojana Industrial Park, overturned shortly after leaving the factory. Witnesses and a rear dashcam captured the bus swerving before the crash. Rescue workers used ladders to evacuate passengers from the submerged vehicle. Police are investigating the incident and seeking the driver for questioning as legal proceedings begin.

German Muay Thai Trainee Arrested in Phuket for Motorcycle Theft A German man was arrested in Chalong, Phuket, for allegedly stealing a motorcycle from a Thai national on April 5. Police quickly tracked and apprehended the suspect, recovering the stolen bike and a suspected stolen iPhone 16 Pro Max. The man, who had been living in Soi Ta-iad and training at a local Muay Thai camp, is now in custody facing legal proceedings. Authorities are investigating whether he’s linked to other crimes. Chalong Police praised the swift action and urged the public to stay alert and report suspicious activity.

Thai Man Jumps from Police Station After Actress Accuses Him of Fraud A Thai man jumped from the third floor of a Bangkok police station after being accused by actress Rinyarat “Kana” Watchararojsiri of fraud. Kana claims he tricked her into marriage, posing as a secret government and royal advisor, and defrauded her of money and luxury gifts. She discovered the truth after his legal wife contacted her. The man denied the allegations and, during police questioning, attempted suicide by jumping from the station. He was hospitalized, and police are still investigating the case, which may involve lese majeste charges.

Russians Now Hold 1 in 4 Foreign Work Permits in Phuket A new report from the Phuket Provincial Employment Office reveals that Russians now hold 25% of all foreign work permits in Phuket, with 3,926 out of 15,620 total permits. This highlights a growing shift from tourism to long-term living and working among Russians on the island. Other top nationalities include workers from the Philippines, China, and the UK. Most foreigners are employed in hotels, F&B, education, consulting, and tourism. The report has renewed discussions about labour integration and economic planning as Phuket’s expat workforce continues to diversify.