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E-Cigarette Crisis in Thailand Becomes a National Agenda Civil networks have elevated the e-cigarette issue to a national agenda due to the alarming rise in youth vaping. The matter was discussed in a seminar hosted by the Senate Committee on Social Development, with representatives from the government, private sector, and academia attending. Studies reveal that 43% of primary school students (ages 9-12) have experimented with vaping, with a significant increase among girls. Concerns were raised about nicotine addiction, academic struggles, and mental health effects. Calls for stricter regulations on vape sales continue as the crisis intensifies.

The following transcription presents news stories from across Thailand, featured in the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Jay. Topics range from the e-cigarette crisis becoming a national agenda to a Thai adult content creator's retirement and scam warning. E-Cigarette Crisis in Thailand Becomes a National Agenda Thailand is addressing a surge in youth vaping as civil networks push for stricter regulations. A seminar held by the Senate Committee on Social Development highlighted concerns over nicotine addiction, mental health issues, and academic struggles. Studies reveal that 43% of primary school students have tried e-cigarettes, with rising numbers among young girls. Police Pose as Delivery Riders to Arrest Drug Smugglers Nakhon Ratchasima police carried out a sting operation disguised as delivery riders, leading to the arrest of two drug smugglers. The suspects, caught trafficking 400,000 methamphetamine pills worth 6 million baht, cited financial struggles as their motive. The operation raises ethical concerns over law enforcement impersonating private employees. Foreigners Demand More Public Toilets in Phuket A public urination controversy in Phuket has sparked debate over the availability of public restrooms. Viral images of two foreigners relieving themselves led to fines and criticism from Thai social media users. Foreigners argue that the island’s limited restroom facilities contribute to the problem, calling for better infrastructure. Thai Adult Content Creator Retires, Warns of Scammers Popular Thai content creator “J. Jett” has announced her retirement and cautioned fans about scammers impersonating her online. Fraudulent accounts have been using her name and images to promote fake livestreams. The news has disappointed her followers while also raising concerns about online identity theft.

Man Arrested After 18 Years for Crime Involving a Minor A 37-year-old man, Apichat, was arrested in Lop Buri after evading authorities for 18 years. In 2006, he invited a 17-year-old girl, Bee, on a trip to Bang Saen Beach, later convincing her to continue drinking at his home, where he was accused of inappropriate conduct. A warrant was issued for his arrest, but he fled the area. On February 2, police finally tracked him down. Apichat has since confessed and is now in police custody for legal proceedings.

Civil Servant Arrested for Filming Police in Restroom A civil servant from Udon Thani was caught secretly filming two police officers in a restroom at a petrol station in Khon Kaen on February 1. Upon inspection, police found numerous restroom videos on his phone, along with a list of online group members and evidence in his vehicle. Identified as a Tambon Administration Organisation director, he had been selling the footage on X, Line, and Telegram for 250 baht per member. He confessed to doing this for over a year and now faces charges related to obscene content distribution.

Explosives Found Near Election Unit in Chumphon Three grenades and nearly 100 machine gun rounds were discovered just 50 metres from an election unit in Chumphon province on February 1. A worker accidentally kicked a suspicious bag while cutting palms, revealing the explosives. Authorities secured the area and called in the EOD unit, which found three South Korean-made practice grenades and 82 rusted machine gun rounds. The explosives were safely detonated at the site. Police are investigating their origin, as the area has previously hosted Cobra Gold military exercises.

Phuket Tourist Bus Plunges Into Ravine, Injuring Nine A tourist bus in Phuket plunged about 20 metres into a ravine off Karon Hill on 1 February, injuring nine people—five men and four women from China, Germany, Russia, and Thailand. Emergency teams rushed them to Patong Hospital for treatment. According to preliminary dash-cam evidence, the driver, identified as 49-year-old Mr. Wira, lost control at high speed, veered off the road, destroyed the crash barrier, and tumbled into the ravine. Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the accident.

Thai Hostages Freed by Hamas Set for Repatriation Five Thai hostages recently freed by Hamas after 15 months in captivity are set for repatriation from Israel. Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and Chief of Defence Forces General Songwit Noonpakdee arrived in Tel Aviv on February 1 to oversee their return. The released hostages are undergoing medical evaluations at Al-Shamir Medical Centre, with assessments expected to take 8-10 days. Thailand is coordinating with Israel on compensation and repatriation efforts. Maris expressed gratitude to Israel, Qatar, Egypt, Iran, and Turkey for their roles in securing the hostages’ release.

Thai Senator’s Death Penalty Proposal Sparks Debate Thai Senator Amat Ayuken sparked controversy by proposing the death penalty for drug offenders, with executions televised to deter crime. Citing Singapore as a model, he argued that harsher laws would reduce drug-related offenses. While ten senators supported his stance, others, including Senator Angkana Neelapaijit, condemned it as a violation of human rights. Critics argued that enforcing existing laws and targeting major drug networks would be more effective. Despite opposition, some members of the public backed the idea, with calls to extend severe penalties to other serious crimes.

The latest edition of Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex, covers major stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia. Highlights include a Phuket tourist bus crash that left nine injured, the discovery of explosives near an election unit in Chumphon, and the upcoming repatriation of Thai hostages freed by Hamas. Other reports feature a controversial death penalty proposal for drug offenders, Indonesia’s new four-day workweek initiative, and Phnom Penh’s launch of a pedestrian-friendly ‘Walk Street.’ Additionally, authorities have cracked down on criminal activities, from online scams in the Philippines to a civil servant secretly filming police officers in Thailand. 1. Phuket Tourist Bus Crash Injures Nine A tourist bus in Phuket plunged into a ravine off Karon Hill, injuring nine people from China, Germany, Russia, and Thailand. The driver reportedly lost control at high speed. Authorities are investigating. 2. Explosives Found Near Election Unit in Chumphon Three grenades and nearly 100 machine gun rounds were discovered near an election unit in Chumphon. The explosives were safely detonated, and police are investigating their origin. 3. Freed Thai Hostages Set for Repatriation Five Thai hostages released by Hamas are set for repatriation. Thai officials are in Israel overseeing their return, with medical evaluations ongoing. Diplomatic efforts continue for compensation and resettlement. 4. Civil Servant Arrested for Filming Police in Restroom A civil servant was caught secretly filming police officers in a restroom and selling the footage online. He confessed to doing this for over a year and now faces legal charges. 5. Man Arrested After 18 Years on the Run A 37-year-old man was arrested in Lop Buri after evading authorities for 18 years. He had fled following allegations of misconduct involving a minor in 2006. He has since confessed. 6. Thai Senator’s Death Penalty Proposal Sparks Debate A Thai senator proposed the death penalty for drug offenders, with televised executions as a deterrent. While some support the idea, human rights groups strongly oppose it. 7. Indonesia Introduces Voluntary Four-Day Work Week Indonesia has implemented a voluntary four-day workweek for state-owned enterprise employees, aiming to improve work-life balance. The initiative is under evaluation for wider adoption. 8. Phnom Penh Launches ‘Walk Street’ Along Riverside Phnom Penh’s new ‘Walk Street’ project opened along the Riverside. It offers a pedestrian-friendly space every weekend, and officials hope it will boost tourism and local engagement. 9. Man Arrested for Slapping Wife Over Chicken Rice Errand A man in Malaysia was arrested after a viral video showed him slapping his wife for returning late from buying chicken rice. He later fled but was found sleeping in his car. 10. 100 Arrested in Philippine Online Scam Raid Philippine authorities raided an online scam operation, arresting 100 suspects for running a fraudulent lending scheme. Victims were harassed, and some were driven to suicide. Investigations continue.

British Drug Dealer Busted and Back in Cuffs After Thailand Trip A British national, previously convicted for drug-related offenses, was arrested upon his return from Thailand. The individual had fled the UK to avoid serving a prison sentence and had been residing in Thailand for an extended period. Upon re-entering the UK, authorities apprehended him at the airport, acting on an outstanding warrant. The suspect is now set to serve the remainder of his sentence, with additional charges possible for breaching bail conditions and evading justice. This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts of international law enforcement agencies to track and apprehend fugitives attempting to escape legal consequences by relocating abroad. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cross-border cooperation to ensure that individuals cannot evade justice by fleeing jurisdictions.

Elite vs. DTV: Is Thailand's Privilege Visa Losing Its Edge? Thailand's Elite Visa program, designed to attract affluent foreigners through long-term residency options, is facing scrutiny as the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) gains popularity. The Elite Visa offers various packages with benefits such as expedited immigration procedures and exclusive services, appealing primarily to retirees and high-net-worth individuals. However, the emergence of the DTV, tailored for remote workers seeking flexibility, has introduced competition. The DTV provides more affordable and adaptable options for digital nomads, including tax incentives and the ability to work legally within the country. Critics argue that the Elite Visa's high costs and rigid structures may deter potential applicants, especially younger professionals. In response, Thai authorities are evaluating the current visa offerings to ensure they remain competitive and align with global trends in remote work and expatriation. Discussions include potential revisions to the Elite Visa program to incorporate more flexible terms and benefits that cater to a broader demographic.

Israeli Man Arrested in Pattaya for Using Counterfeit US Dollars In Pattaya, Thai authorities apprehended an Israeli national accused of circulating counterfeit US currency. The suspect allegedly used fake $100 bills at various local establishments, prompting complaints from business owners who noticed discrepancies upon currency inspection. Following an investigation, police traced the counterfeit bills back to the individual, leading to his arrest. During the apprehension, officers reportedly discovered additional counterfeit notes in his possession. The suspect faces charges related to currency forgery and fraud, which carry severe penalties under Thai law. This incident has raised concerns among local businesses about the prevalence of counterfeit currency and the need for vigilant verification practices. Authorities have urged merchants to use counterfeit detection tools and report any suspicious activities promptly to prevent similar occurrences.

Suspects Surrender After Violent Attacks Over FiveM Game Conflicts Four individuals have surrendered to Thai police following violent altercations stemming from disputes within the online gaming community, specifically related to the FiveM modification of Grand Theft Auto V. The conflicts, which originated from in-game disagreements, escalated into real-world violence, including physical assaults and property damage. The suspects, all avid gamers, reportedly targeted fellow players over perceived slights and competition within the game. Upon surrendering, they confessed to their involvement in the attacks, citing intense emotions and personal vendettas as motivators. Authorities have charged them with assault and vandalism, emphasizing the seriousness of translating virtual disputes into physical confrontations. This case highlights the potential dangers of online interactions spilling over into real life and serves as a cautionary tale about managing digital conflicts responsibly. Law enforcement officials are urging the gaming community to seek peaceful resolutions to disputes and to utilize in-game reporting mechanisms to handle grievances.

Indian-Thai Man Accuses Delivery Rider of Spying, Threatens to Kill Him A confrontation in Bangkok escalated when an Indian-Thai individual accused a food delivery rider of espionage and issued death threats. The incident began when the man noticed the rider loitering near his residence, leading him to suspect surveillance. An argument ensued, during which the man threatened the rider's life, alleging he was gathering information for malicious purposes. Bystanders intervened to de-escalate the situation, and law enforcement was called to the scene. Both parties were taken to the local police station for questioning. The accuser faces potential charges of issuing threats and harassment, while the delivery rider was released after providing his account. Authorities are investigating the motives behind the accusation and have reminded the public to exercise caution and avoid jumping to conclusions without evidence.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand, as presented on Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Jay. Topics range from the arrest of an Israeli man for using counterfeit US dollars to a UK drug dealer's capture after returning from Thailand. Israeli Man Arrested for Counterfeit US Dollars Thai police arrested an Israeli man in Pattaya for using fake $100 bills at local businesses. Officers discovered more counterfeit notes during his arrest. Under Thai law, he now faces serious fraud and forgery charges. Authorities urge businesses to stay vigilant and report suspicious transactions. Bangkok Man Accuses Delivery Rider of Spying A Bangkok resident accused a food delivery rider of spying on him and threatened to kill him. The confrontation escalated until bystanders intervened. Police detained both men for questioning, releasing the rider while the accuser now faces possible harassment charges. Thailand’s Elite Visa Faces Competition from Digital Nomad Visa Thailand’s Elite Visa, once popular among wealthy expats, is now challenged by the rising Digital Nomad Visa (DTV). The DTV offers work rights, tax benefits, and flexibility, making it a preferred choice for remote workers. Thai authorities are considering updates to keep the Elite Visa competitive. Gaming Rivalry Turns Violent, Four Suspects Surrender Four suspects turned themselves in after an online gaming dispute over the FiveM mod of GTA V led to real-world violence. The attacks resulted in injuries and property damage. Police charged them with assault and vandalism, warning gamers to resolve conflicts peacefully. UK Drug Dealer Arrested After Returning from Thailand A convicted British drug dealer was arrested upon landing in the UK after hiding in Thailand to avoid serving his sentence. Authorities detained him at the airport due to an outstanding warrant. He now faces additional charges for fleeing justice.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented on Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex. The coverage ranges from a viral video of a Thai man kicking a motorcyclist, which led to police action, to the controversy surrounding Cambodian rapper G-Devith’s latest song. 1. Viral Video of Thai Man Kicking Motorcyclist Sparks Police Action A viral TikTok video of a pedestrian kicking a motorcyclist who ran a red light in Bangkok led to the rider’s arrest. The motorcyclist, 26-year-old Jadesada, faces five charges, including reckless driving and riding without a license. 2. Reckless Pickup Nearly Causes Disaster in Phuket Collision with 18-Wheeler A pickup driver in Phuket narrowly escaped disaster after cutting in front of an 18-wheeler near Cherng Talay Police Station. CCTV footage shows the truck dragging the pickup down the road before stopping. No injuries were reported. 3. Thai-Irish Couple Reports Swiss Man After Restaurant Altercation A Thai-Irish couple in Prachuap Khiri Khan filed a police complaint against a Swiss man over a restaurant altercation. The dispute stems from ongoing tensions regarding unleashed dogs on Ban Suan Luang Beach. 4. British-Thai Teen Involved in Fatal Pattaya Road Crash A 19-year-old British-Thai man crashed his Toyota Fortuner into a motorbike in Pattaya, killing one woman and seriously injuring another. CCTV confirmed the high-speed collision. Authorities are reviewing evidence for possible reckless driving charges. 5. Jailed Chinese Tycoon Accuses Thai Officials of Mistreatment Detained Chinese businessman She Zhijiang claims Thai officials mistreated him after he spoke to Al Jazeera. Authorities deny the allegations, stating he was transferred for rule violations and continues to receive standard inmate rights. 6. Thailand’s Aviation Sector Nearing Full Recovery, Says CAAT Thailand’s aviation industry is projected to return to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, reaching 140 million passengers. CAAT aims to regain FAA Category 1 certification to expand flights to the US and key Asian markets. 7. Fatal Malaysian Maritime Shooting Sparks Protests in Jakarta Malaysia’s Maritime Enforcement Agency fatally shot an Indonesian national and injured four others off Selangor’s coast. The Indonesian government is demanding an investigation, and protests are planned outside Malaysia’s embassy in Jakarta. 8. French and Australian Warships Dock in Bali for Diplomatic Visit Three French frigates and an Australian battleship arrived in Bali for a week-long diplomatic visit. The naval presence aims to strengthen defense cooperation and military exchanges between Indonesia, France, and Australia. 9. Singapore Influencer Fined for False Kidnapping Claim Singaporean beauty influencer Amyra Laila Ho was fined 1,000 ringgit ($228) by a Malaysian court for falsely claiming she was nearly kidnapped at a Johor Bahru mall. Authorities warn against spreading misinformation. 10. Cambodian Rapper G-Devith’s New Song Sparks Controversy Cambodian rapper G-Devith’s latest song hit 500,000 YouTube views in a day but faced plagiarism accusations. Critics claim he copied artists like Travis Scott, while others took issue with lyrics mocking disabilities.

Thailand’s aviation sector nearing full recovery, says CAAT Thailand’s aviation sector is set to recover to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, with passenger numbers expected to reach 25 million, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). While 2019 saw 165 million passengers, 2024 has recorded an 85% recovery at 140 million. Delays in Chinese tourist returns and aircraft shortages have slowed growth, prompting airlines to lease aircraft under eased regulations. Thailand aims to rank 9th in global aviation by 2033, up from 19th. CAAT is also working to regain FAA Category 1 certification, which would allow Thai airlines to expand flights to the US and key Asian markets.

Jailed Chinese tycoon accuses Thai officials of mistreatment She Zhijiang, a high-profile Chinese inmate and alleged scam network leader, has accused Thai officials of mistreatment at Bangkok Remand Prison. Arrested in 2022, he faces extradition to China but has appealed the order. His lawyer claims he was harassed, held in solitary confinement, shackled, and denied medical care after speaking to Al Jazeera, alleging China once asked him to spy. Thai authorities deny the claims, stating he was moved to Klong Prem Central Prison due to rule violations and emphasizing that he receives standard inmate rights, including medical care and letter correspondence. INTERPOL has been contacted for assistance.

British-Thai teen involved in fatal Pattaya road crash A fatal road crash in Pattaya on January 28 left one woman dead and another seriously injured. A 19-year-old British-Thai man, Mr. Lewis, was driving a Toyota Fortuner that collided with a Yamaha Grand Filano motorcycle carrying two riders. Witnesses reported that the Fortuner was speeding and aggressively overtaking before hitting the motorcycle, dragging it over 100 meters. CCTV footage confirmed the high-speed collision. The motorbike passenger, 19-year-old Ms. Thassanee, later died in the hospital. Police took Mr. Lewis into custody, with breathalyzer results showing no alcohol. Investigators are reviewing footage to determine if reckless driving charges will be filed.

Thai-Irish couple reports Swiss man after restaurant altercation A Thai-Irish couple in Prachuap Khiri Khan filed a police complaint on January 28 after an alleged verbal assault by a Swiss national, Mr. Mathias, at a local restaurant. The incident, which occurred on January 24, is believed to be linked to an ongoing dispute over unleashed dogs on Ban Suan Luang Beach. The couple had previously reported Mr. Mathias for allowing his dogs to intimidate beachgoers, despite municipal bans. CCTV footage captured the restaurant altercation, prompting a police investigation. The dispute, ongoing since last year, has affected local tourism, with Mr. Mathias’s lawyer now appealing an order to remove the dogs.

Reckless pickup nearly causes disaster in Phuket collision with 18-wheeler A reckless pickup driver in Phuket narrowly avoided disaster after cutting in front of an 18-wheeler hauling a crane near Cherng Talay Police Station on January 27. CCTV footage shows the pickup attempting a risky maneuver, only to be dragged down the road by the massive truck, coming dangerously close to motorcyclists at a red light. The vehicle finally stopped after lightly tapping another car, with no injuries reported. Despite the dangerous incident, police have not announced any charges and have obscured vehicle details in the footage. Authorities are urging drivers to respect traffic rules to prevent similar accidents.

Viral video of Thai man kicking motorcyclist sparks police action A viral TikTok video showing a Thai pedestrian kicking a motorcyclist who ran a red light and ignored a zebra crossing in Bangkok has led to the rider’s arrest on January 29. The video, originally posted by @p_is_myname, showed the TikToker reacting angrily when the motorcyclist rode into a crowd at a crossing on Ratchadamri Road. The video was later deleted but resurfaced through news outlets, sparking criticism of the police for inaction. Following public pressure, Lumpini Police arrested the 26-year-old rider, Jadesada, who admitted to the violation. He now faces five charges, including reckless driving and riding without a license, with penalties ranging from fines to possible imprisonment.

Chiang Mai to join UNESCO’s World Heritage list Chiang Mai—the historical heart of the Lanna Kingdom—is finalizing its bid to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Officials aim to include renowned spots like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Wat Chedi Luang, and the ancient city walls in their proposal. Already on UNESCO’s tentative list since 2015, Chiang Mai hopes to join Thailand’s five existing World Heritage sites. If approved, the designation would boost global recognition, preservation efforts, and tourism for the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Chinese New Year spending in Thailand hits 51 billion baht Thailand’s Chinese New Year spending is expected to hit 51.78 billion baht—the highest in five years—marking a 4.5% increase over last year. In Songkhla, shops see strong demand for decorative items, though Rayong vendors report slower sales due to lingering economic pressures and higher product costs. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra extended festive wishes, highlighting the deep-rooted ties between Thailand and China. The government backs cultural events—like Yaowarat’s iconic performances and food stalls—aiming for 2.2 million local and international visitors and over 6 billion baht in tourism revenue.

British woman jailed after collecting debt from Thai millionaire British private estate consultant Rachel Stallard flew to Thailand to collect an unpaid £30,000 fee from a Thai millionaire but claims she was jailed on bogus charges after her client allegedly bribed local police. Held in poor conditions, she bribed officers for food and criticized minimal help from the British Embassy. Stallard eventually paid over £38,000 in bail and legal fees, leaving her heavily in debt. Though currently free, she still awaits trial—potentially years away—and insists there is no evidence behind the seven charges against her.