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The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Asia, as presented on Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex and Jay. The coverage includes a range of reports, from 'Brit Beaten by Thai Bar Girls Over Unpaid Bill' to 'Malaysian Police Hunt for Setia Alam Mall Shooter. Brit Beaten by Thai Bar Girls Over Unpaid Bill A British tourist in Pattaya was attacked and thrown out of a bar after refusing to pay his bill, which included a 50% markup on drinks for the women he and his friend entertained. Bar staff and women assaulted him with high heels, demanding payment. Bleeding from a head wound, he was eventually forced to leave the premises. Phuket Airport Corruption Allegations Under Investigation Phuket’s anti-corruption body is reviewing misconduct allegations against four Airports of Thailand staff over an 11.8 million baht contract for royal commemorative stickers. While internal disciplinary actions have been announced, no formal investigation has been launched yet. LGBTQ Protest in Pathum Thani After Violent Soup Attack Over 500 LGBTQ protesters rallied in Pathum Thani after a student was attacked with hot soup and forced to flee unclothed. The perpetrators, also LGBTQ, were arrested and charged with bodily harm. Activists condemned the attack, citing concerns about extortion and intimidation. Former Russian Beauty Queen Detained in Thai Immigration Center Russian beauty queen Alexandra Tikhomirova, 23, was detained in Pattaya for overstaying her visa by 10 days. She faces possible transfer to Bangkok’s overcrowded Immigration Detention Centre. Human rights advocates have raised concerns over her treatment as diplomatic efforts continue. Ugandan Woman Fakes Seizure to Evade Immigration Check-in Pattaya A 39-year-old Ugandan woman, who had overstayed her visa by 603 days, faked a seizure on Pattaya Beach to avoid an immigration check. She was caught, received medical attention, and now faces deportation. The incident highlights Thailand’s strict immigration enforcement. Thai Hostages Return Home After Release by Hamas Five Thai hostages returned home after being released by Hamas, reuniting with their families at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Officials assured support for their recovery while continuing efforts to secure the release of the last remaining Thai hostage. Malaysian Police Hunt for Setia Alam Mall Shooter Malaysian police are searching for a gunman with 11 prior criminal records who shot a cleaner at Setia City Mall before carjacking a vehicle and fleeing. The injured victim is in stable condition as authorities intensify their manhunt. Military Police Officer Kills 2, Injures 3, Then Takes Own Life A Cambodian military police officer shot and killed his in-laws and wounded three others, including his wife, before taking his own life. The attack, carried out with an AK-47, is under investigation as authorities determine the motive. Three British Nationals Arrested for Cocaine Smuggling in Bali Indonesian authorities arrested three British nationals for smuggling nearly 1 kg of cocaine hidden in food packaging. The suspects were caught at Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport, with one seen laughing at a police press conference despite facing severe drug charges. Kaohsiung Police Detain Suspected Serial Killer Taiwanese police arrested a 73-year-old man suspected of murdering three women, including his sister-in-law. CCTV footage showed him disposing of body parts in a river. DNA evidence linked him to two other missing persons, with police still searching for additional remains.

Foreigner Sparks Outrage for Doing Thai-Only Job in Phuket A viral video of a foreigner working as a masseur in Phuket has sparked outrage, as Thai law reserves such jobs for locals to protect "Thai wisdom" and employment opportunities. Critics argue that allowing foreigners to take these roles threatens Thai traditions, while others note difficulties in hiring Thai workers due to wage demands and work conditions. Last year, 721 cases of foreigners working in prohibited jobs were reported. Violators face fines of up to 50,000 baht and deportation, while employers risk higher penalties, jail time, and a hiring ban.

3-Metre Snake Found Stuck in Samut Songkhram Toilet A 3-metre-long fish-eating snake was found stuck in a toilet at a home in Samut Songkhram, requiring emergency services to break the toilet for removal. Firefighters safely extracted the snake and released it into the wild. The homeowner, unfazed, plans to use their house number (11/1) for the lottery. A firefighter urged residents to flush toilets before use to avoid similar encounters, warning that surprise snake incidents can lead to serious injuries.

Mummified Infant Bodies Found in Chilling Chiang Mai Delivery Police in Sa Kaeo uncovered a horrifying package containing two mummified infant bodies bound for Chiang Mai. The sender, 47-year-old Chai, claimed he was acting for a self-proclaimed black magician named Pol, who admitted to purchasing the bodies for 10,000 baht. Pol allegedly planned to resell them to Chinese tourists for 30,000 baht. Authorities raided Pol’s shop and are now investigating the origins of the corpses and potential human remains trafficking violations. The case has raised concerns over the illegal trade of human remains in Thailand.

American-Thai Couple Loses 15.2M Baht in Hua Hin Property Scam An American man and his Thai wife lost 15.2 million baht in a Hua Hin property scam after a real estate firm sold their purchased land to another buyer. The couple, Patrick Flippin and Vipavanee Kaewmueangklang, paid in instalments, only to later discover the land was sold under a redemption agreement that was never honored. After demanding a refund, they received three cheques—two of which bounced. Now seeking justice, they refuse to claim the house without land ownership. A legal advocate suspects fraud and is pushing authorities to take action.

Thailand’s Airport Smoking Ban Faces Controversy Thailand’s Airports of Thailand (AoT) is facing backlash for proposing the return of smoking rooms at Suvarnabhumi Airport, reversing a seven-year smoke-free policy. Health experts, including Dr. Naowarat Charoenkha, warn that this move could damage Thailand’s global reputation and endanger public health. Studies have shown high levels of PM2.5 pollution in Thai airports before the ban, posing risks to passengers and staff. While global trends push for 100% smoke-free airports, Thailand risks moving in the opposite direction. Advocates urge the government to prioritize health and maintain the country’s smoke-free status.

4 Israeli Men Fined for Causing Chaos at Mae Hong Son Hospital Four Israeli men were fined 3,000 baht each for causing a disturbance at Pai Hospital in Mae Hong Son. They attempted to enter the emergency room without permission while their injured friend was being treated. When denied entry, they became disruptive, forcing security to remove them. Police charged them under Section 397 of Thailand’s Criminal Law. Hospital staff reported repeated disrespect, refusal to follow medical instructions, smoking in the hospital, and evading fees. Locals also expressed frustration over their behavior, alleging illegal work and unlicensed motorcycle use.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia, as covered in Good Morning Thailand with Alex and Jay. Topics range from Israeli tourists fined for hospital chaos to Thailand reclaiming its title as Southeast Asia’s top tourist destination. Israeli Tourists Fined for Hospital Chaos Four Israeli men were fined 3,000 baht each for disrupting Pai Hospital in Mae Hong Son. They attempted to enter the emergency room without permission and caused a scene when denied entry. Hospital staff accused them of repeated misconduct, while locals complained about their illegal work and unlicensed motorbike use. Smoking Ban U-Turn at Thai Airports Sparks Backlash Airports of Thailand (AoT) faces criticism for proposing smoking rooms at Suvarnabhumi Airport, reversing a seven-year ban. Health experts warn it could damage Thailand’s reputation and pose health risks. Advocates urge the government to maintain smoke-free policies. Mummified Infant Bodies Found in Shocking Delivery Police in Sa Kaeo intercepted a package containing two mummified infant bodies bound for Chiang Mai. The sender admitted delivering them for a self-proclaimed black magician, who planned to resell them to Chinese tourists. Authorities are investigating possible human remains trafficking. Hua Hin Property Scam Costs Couple 15.2M Baht An American man and his Thai wife lost 15.2 million baht after a real estate firm resold their purchased land. Two of the three refund cheques bounced, and the couple refuses to accept the house without land ownership. A legal expert suspects fraud and is urging authorities to act. 3-Metre Snake Found Stuck in Toilet A 3-metre fish-eating snake got stuck in a Samut Songkhram toilet, forcing emergency crews to break the fixture for removal. Firefighters safely released the snake into the wild. A firefighter advised residents to flush before use to avoid similar surprises. Foreigner Causes Uproar for Working in Thai-Only Job A viral video of a foreigner working as a masseur in Phuket sparked outrage, as Thai law reserves such jobs for locals. Authorities caught 721 cases of foreigners working in restricted jobs last year. Offenders face fines, deportation, and employers risk severe penalties. British Journalist Blacklisted in Cambodia Cambodia blacklisted British journalist Gerald Flynn over visa issues, but Flynn claims it’s retaliation for exposing environmental corruption. Rights groups warn press freedom is deteriorating under Prime Minister Hun Manet, as journalists face arrests, harassment, and even violence. Malaysia’s Proposed Event Rules Stir Controversy Malaysia’s proposed rules requiring approval for Muslims to attend non-Muslim events have sparked backlash. Critics warn the move threatens national unity, while supporters argue it upholds Islamic values. Politicians and activists have called for the religious affairs minister’s resignation. Indonesia’s President Prabowo Warns Ministers President Prabowo Subianto warned ministers to perform or be replaced. Promising zero tolerance for inefficiency and corruption, he signaled potential cabinet reshuffles to enforce accountability. Thailand Reclaims Southeast Asia’s Top Tourist Spot Thailand welcomed 35.5 million foreign tourists in 2024, reclaiming its spot as Southeast Asia’s most-visited country. Visa-free programs for Chinese and Indian travelers fueled the surge, prompting neighboring countries to ease their visa policies to stay competitive.

Three Foreigners Caught in Phuket for Illegal Motorcycle Modifications Three foreigners were caught in Phuket for illegal motorcycle modifications during a police checkpoint near the Holiday Inn Resort. A 29-year-old Frenchman and two Russian nationals were stopped for installing illegal accessories and excessively loud exhaust pipes. Their motorcycles, a Yamaha TMAX, Honda CB650R, and Kawasaki Z1000, violated Thai traffic laws. They were taken to the Karon Police Station and may face fines of up to 2,000 baht for vehicle alterations and 1,000 baht for exceeding noise limits. Police have not yet disclosed the final penalties.

Thailand to Destroy Over 27 Tonnes of Illegal Drugs in ONCB Crackdown Thailand’s Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) will destroy over 27 tonnes of illegal drugs on February 5 as part of its crackdown on narcotics. The seized substances include methamphetamine, heroin, ketamine, cocaine, and ecstasy, confiscated in 151 cases over the past two months. Authorities have ensured transparency, with scientific testing conducted before incineration. The drug destruction event, declared a national priority by PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra, will take place in Samut Prakan and be livestreamed for public accountability.

Thai Man Throws Ex-Girlfriend Down Stairs, Threatens to Share Explicit Videos A Thai man, identified as Anusit, violently attacked his ex-girlfriend in Rayong, throwing her down a 1.7-metre stairwell outside her workplace, causing a hip injury. After failing to reconcile, he stalked her for days and later took to social media, offering explicit videos as a bounty for information on her whereabouts. The victim had ended their six-year relationship due to his gambling addiction and violent behavior. Despite escaping his continued harassment, it's unclear if she has taken legal action. The disturbing case has sparked outrage online.

Five Thai Hostages Freed by Hamas to Return Home on February 8 Five Thai nationals held hostage by Hamas for over a year are set to return home on February 8, pending medical clearance. One Thai hostage remains unaccounted for, and efforts to secure their release continue. Thailand has been working diplomatically with Israel, Qatar, Turkey, Iran, Egypt, and the US to facilitate negotiations. Two Thai nationals have been confirmed dead, and their repatriation has been requested. Upon arrival, the freed hostages will receive moral and financial support. Thailand's role in ceasefire talks has been acknowledged by Israeli officials.

Missing British Man Found Dead in Bangkok British man James Sangwine, 33, was found dead in Bangkok after going missing during a holiday. His family lost contact after he went out on January 20, and he was last seen heading to the Abandoned Mansion Bar & Restaurant. Sangwine was supposed to fly home on January 24 but never boarded his flight. His family launched a fundraiser to bring his body back to the UK, quickly surpassing its £15,000 target, now reaching £21,000. Friends and family remember him as a lively and loving father, West Ham fan, and storyteller. The UK Foreign Office is assisting his family while Thai police have not yet released details on his death.

Thailand's New Digital Arrival Card Sparks Confusion Among Travelers Thailand's new Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), set to launch on May 1, is causing confusion among travelers due to unclear implementation details. The TDAC will replace the TM6 entry card, requiring all foreign arrivals to submit an online form before traveling. However, Thai authorities have not yet disclosed the submission platform, how airlines will enforce compliance, or if TDACs can be completed upon arrival. There’s speculation that it might double as a customs declaration form. With less than two months before rollout, travelers and airlines await urgent clarification to avoid travel disruptions.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and the Asia region, as presented on the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. Topics range from the discovery of a missing British man in Bangkok to the rising demand for flu vaccines in Taiwan. 1. British Man Found Dead in Bangkok Thai authorities found British tourist James Sangwine dead after he went missing on January 20. His family raised £21,000 to repatriate his body, while Thai police have yet to reveal the cause of death. 2. Thai Man Attacks Ex-Girlfriend, Offers Explicit Videos for Info A Thai man threw his ex-girlfriend down a stairwell in Rayong and later posted online, offering explicit videos in exchange for her location. Netizens demand justice. 3. Hamas Releases Five Thai Hostages Five Thai hostages held by Hamas will return home on February 8 after medical clearance. One Thai remains missing as negotiations continue. 4. Thailand’s New Digital Arrival Card Causes Confusion The Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) launches on May 1, replacing the TM6 form. Unclear implementation details have left travelers and airlines seeking urgent clarification. 5. Thailand to Destroy 27 Tonnes of Illegal Drugs Thai authorities will incinerate 27 tonnes of seized narcotics on February 5 in a nationwide drug crackdown, ensuring transparency through scientific testing and live streaming. 6. Phuket Police Arrest Three Foreigners for Bike Modifications Police in Phuket arrested three foreigners for illegally modifying their motorcycles. They face fines for vehicle alterations and excessive noise violations. 7. Nightclub Fire Kills Two in Phnom Penh A fire at Phnom Penh’s Midnight Premier Club killed two and injured five. Authorities suspect welding work caused the blaze, and the club owner has been summoned for questioning. 8. Philippine VP Sara Duterte Impeached The Philippine House impeached Vice-President Sara Duterte over corruption claims and alleged threats against President Marcos. The case moves to the Senate. 9. Malaysian Influencer Disappears in Bandung Forest Eyka, a 22-year-old Malaysian influencer, vanished in a Bandung forest during a paranormal hunt. Authorities and locals are searching for her. 10. Flu Vaccine Demand Surges in Taiwan Following Barbie Hsu’s influenza-related death, Taiwan faces a flu vaccine shortage. The A (H1N1) strain is fueling outbreaks across Asia and Europe.

Pattaya Police Deny British Tourist’s Bribery Claims, Promise Review Pattaya police have dismissed a British tourist’s bribery claims as “largely untrue” while promising a full review. Andrew Hopkins, 55, alleged he was jailed for 36 hours in poor conditions and forced to pay 15,000 baht for his release. However, Pattaya Police Chief Pol. Col. Nawin Theerawit stated that Hopkins, drunk at the time, was initially fined 100 baht for damaging a barrier but later arrested again for causing disturbances. The police insist due process was followed, with CCTV evidence and documented belongings, while the case is now under further scrutiny to maintain Pattaya’s reputation.

Israeli Fugitive Wanted for Stabbing Arrested in Pattaya A 27-year-old Israeli fugitive, wanted for a violent stabbing in Tel Aviv, was arrested in Pattaya after Thai immigration police discovered he had overstayed his visa. Identified only as T, he was listed on an Interpol Red Notice for luring a victim to an apartment, where he and an accomplice smashed a bottle over the victim’s head and stabbed him multiple times. T fled Israel using a fake passport and hid in Pattaya last year. Thai authorities have revoked his visa and are coordinating his extradition, reinforcing Thailand’s crackdown on international fugitives.

Toxic Smog Disrupts Bangkok Flights as PM2.5 Levels Soar Bangkok’s toxic air pollution has reached hazardous levels, forcing flight diversions and triggering health warnings. On February 2, thick smog reduced visibility to 150 meters, diverting flights from Don Mueang Airport. PM2.5 levels hit 64.7 µg/m³, nearly double the safe limit. Authorities blame traffic, industry, and crop burning for worsening conditions, with stagnant air trapping pollutants. In response, the Bangkok government urged mask use, remote work, and free public transport. Critics argue more long-term solutions, like promoting EVs and stricter regulations, are needed to combat Thailand’s annual pollution crisis.

Three Foreigners Attack Phuket Tuk-Tuk Driver Over Parking Dispute A Thai tuk-tuk driver, Narin, was violently attacked by three foreign men in Phuket following a parking dispute outside Jungceylon Mall at 3 AM on February 2. The altercation began when Narin asked a foreign motorcyclist to move his vehicle, but the man refused and called two friends for backup. The trio then strangled Narin and struck him in the head with a glass bottle, breaking his nasal bone and requiring six stitches. The suspects remain at large, with dashcam footage circulating online. Thai netizens are divided, calling for stricter law enforcement while also highlighting ongoing parking issues.

Thai Beautician Battles British Heirs for £400K Inheritance A Thai beautician, Kanokporn Nattachai, is battling the sons of her late British lover, Roger Burrage, for a share of his £400,000 estate in the London High Court. She claims Burrage promised her financial security and that she loaned him £200,000 for his business. His sons, Simon and David Burrage, reject her claim, arguing she already received gifts, including a luxury Hua Hin villa. They insist their father’s 2006 will left everything to them. The case hinges on whether Burrage’s verbal promises hold legal weight. A ruling on a security-for-costs order is pending, with a final decision yet to come.

Drunk French Tourist Crashes Into Patong Cop, Arrested Immediately A drunk French tourist, Mohammed Jeafar, crashed his motorcycle into a Patong traffic police officer early this morning, injuring both men. The incident occurred at 7:14 AM on Phra Metta Road. The officer, Pol. Sgt. Maj. Phradon Sawangsaengsai, was taken to the hospital, while Jeafar, who was riding a black Honda ADV 160, was arrested after a breathalyser test showed a 0.58 alcohol level—well over the legal limit. He now faces legal action as police call for stricter enforcement of drink-driving laws in Phuket to curb reckless tourist behavior.

The transcription below features news from Thailand and the wider Asia region, as covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. Stories range from a drunk French tourist crashing into a Patong police officer to Malaysia announcing a 50% toll discount for festive seasons. 1. Drunk French Tourist Crashes into Patong Police Officer A French tourist was arrested after crashing his motorcycle into a Patong traffic officer early this morning. The officer sustained injuries and was hospitalized, while the tourist, who was over the legal alcohol limit, now faces legal action. Authorities call for stricter enforcement of drink-driving laws in Phuket. 2. Pattaya Police Reject British Tourist’s Bribery Allegations Pattaya police deny a British tourist's claims that he was jailed and forced to pay a bribe, calling the accusations “largely untrue.” However, officials have launched a review while maintaining that due process was followed. 3. Bangkok Flights Disrupted by Toxic Smog Severe air pollution in Bangkok forced flight diversions, and visibility dropped to 150 meters. With PM2.5 levels nearly double the safe limit, authorities urge mask use and remote work, while critics demand long-term pollution control measures. 4. Israeli Fugitive Arrested in Pattaya Thai immigration police arrested a 27-year-old Israeli fugitive wanted for a violent stabbing in Tel Aviv. He had overstayed his visa and was using a fake passport. Authorities have revoked his visa and are coordinating his extradition. 5. Three Foreigners Attack Phuket Tuk Tuk Driver A Phuket tuk-tuk driver was attacked by three foreign men after a parking dispute outside Jungceylon Mall. The suspects remain at large, with dashcam footage circulating online and calls for stricter law enforcement. 6. Thai Beautician Battles British Heirs Over £400K Inheritance A Thai woman is fighting in London’s High Court for a share of her late British partner’s £400,000 estate. She claims he promised her financial security, but his sons argue she already received significant gifts. 7. Cambodia Prepares to Receive U.S. Deportees Cambodia is ready to receive deportees under U.S. immigration policies. Many of those facing removal originally arrived in the U.S. as refugee children and now face returning to an unfamiliar homeland. 8. Indonesia Repatriates Ailing French Death Row Inmate Indonesia is repatriating French death row inmate Serge Atlaoui, who has spent nearly 20 years in prison. He was sentenced to death for drug-related offences but insists he was unaware of any illegal activities. 9. China Retaliates Against U.S. Tariffs China has imposed tariffs on U.S. coal, LNG, and crude oil while launching an antitrust probe into Google. Analysts warn of rising trade tensions and potential economic fallout. 10. Malaysia Announces 50% Toll Discounts for Festive Seasons Malaysia will introduce a 50% toll discount during all major holidays in 2025, replacing the previous toll-free initiative. The move aims to balance public benefit with government cost-cutting efforts.

Thai Sex Content Creator Retires and Warns Fans of Impersonation Scam Popular Thai adult content creator “J. Jett” has announced her retirement and warned followers about scammers impersonating her online. Despite starting in the industry with her parents’ awareness, she decided to step away in April 2023. Recently, scammers have been using her name and images to promote fraudulent livestreams. The announcement has disappointed her fanbase but also raised awareness about online identity fraud.

Foreigners Demand More Public Toilets After Phuket Urination Controversy Public urination in Phuket has sparked debate after images of two foreign men relieving themselves in public went viral. Thai social media users criticized the tourists, while foreigners argued that a lack of public toilets forces such situations. Phuket, a major tourist destination, reportedly has only 100 public restrooms for millions of visitors. Under Thailand's Public Cleanliness Act, the two individuals face a fine of up to 2,000 baht. The debate continues over whether Thailand should improve facilities or tourists should be more responsible.

https://youtube.com/shorts/-kWtaIs6_ug?feature=share Police Pose as Delivery Riders to Arrest Drug Smugglers in Thailand In a creative sting operation, Nakhon Ratchasima police disguised themselves as delivery riders to apprehend two drug smugglers trafficking 400,000 methamphetamine pills worth 6 million baht. The suspects, a Thai man and a Lao woman, confessed, citing financial struggles as their motive. The operation raises ethical questions about law enforcement impersonating delivery service employees, a tactic that may not be legal in other countries.