Video News

Russian couple accused of dining and dashing at many Phuket restaurants A Russian couple in Phuket has been accused of repeatedly dining and dashing, sometimes asking for free meals by claiming they have no money. Their behavior has sparked anger among restaurant owners, with some calling for stricter enforcement of Thai laws against begging. The incident has reignited debate over Thailand’s visa-free policy, with critics blaming it for attracting so-called “low-quality” foreign visitors. In a related case, a massage parlour reported three Israeli clients refusing to pay, citing dissatisfaction with the service.

Thailand to launch digital TM6 for tourists, delays 300-baht fee Starting May 1, Thailand will switch from paper TM6 forms to a mandatory digital version for all international arrivals by air, land, and sea. The move is designed to streamline immigration and boost safety by tracking tourists more effectively. Officials will finalize rollout details on January 31, ensuring user-friendliness before introducing any extra screening measures. Meanwhile, the planned 300-baht tourism fee is postponed, possibly for months or longer, until the new system is running smoothly and without complications.

Tourist brawl in Phuket sparks debate on visa policy An Italian and an Indian tourist were filmed brawling on Phuket’s Bangla Road, prompting bystanders—some cheering, others recording on phones—to watch the spectacle. Security personnel and fellow tourists eventually broke up the fight before anyone was seriously hurt. The incident has sparked online debate about Thailand’s free visa policy, with critics calling for stricter regulations to prevent future altercations. Despite the drama, there were no major injuries, but concerns remain about adequate legal safeguards.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented on Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex and Jay. Topics range from a tourist brawl in Phuket sparking a visa policy debate to Vietnam offering free entry to historical sites during Tết. 1. Tourist Brawl in Phuket Sparks Visa Policy Debate An Italian and an Indian tourist were caught brawling on Phuket’s Bangla Road, drawing a crowd of onlookers. Security intervened before anyone was seriously injured. The incident has renewed calls for stricter visa regulations. 2. British Woman Jailed in Thai Debt Dispute British estate consultant Rachel Stallard claims she was jailed on false charges after trying to collect a £30,000 debt from a Thai millionaire. Allegedly, the client bribed the police, forcing her to pay £38,000 in bail and legal fees. She remains free but faces a long trial process. 3. Russian Couple Accused of Dining and Dashing in Phuket A Russian couple allegedly skipped out on restaurant bills multiple times, sometimes pleading poverty. Restaurant owners demand stricter enforcement, while critics blame Thailand’s visa-free policy for attracting such tourists. 4. Thailand to Launch Digital TM6, Delays 300-Baht Fee From May 1, Thailand will introduce a mandatory digital TM6 form for all arrivals, aiming to streamline immigration. Meanwhile, the planned 300-baht tourism fee is postponed until further notice. 5. Chinese New Year Spending in Thailand Hits Record 51 Billion Baht Chinese New Year spending in Thailand is set to reach 51.78 billion baht, a five-year high. The government expects 2.2 million visitors, generating over 6 billion baht in tourism revenue. 6. Chiang Mai Seeks UNESCO World Heritage Status Chiang Mai is finalising its bid to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting landmarks like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. If approved, the status would boost global recognition and tourism. 7. Indonesia’s New Leader Expands Military’s Role, Raising Concerns President Prabowo Subianto is increasing military involvement in civilian affairs, raising fears of democratic backsliding. Critics warn of a return to authoritarian rule, while supporters argue it brings efficiency. 8. Cambodia’s Air Quality Improves After High Pollution Levels After days of hazardous PM2.5 pollution, Cambodia’s air quality has improved. Officials urge the public to stay informed and avoid open burning to prevent further spikes. 9. Vietnam Offers Free Entry to Historical Sites During Tết Several Vietnamese heritage sites are offering free entry for Tết, encouraging cultural exploration. Attractions include Hà Nội’s heritage sites and Thanh Hóa’s Hồ Dynasty Citadel.

Bangkok's Free Transport Plan Criticized Amid Haze Crisis Bangkok's government introduced a week of free public transport, costing 140 million baht, to reduce PM2.5 pollution by encouraging residents to switch from private vehicles. The initiative, launched Saturday, saw a 45% rise in electric train usage but has drawn criticism. Critics argue the plan is superficial and unrealistic without guaranteed behavioral changes. Environmental experts suggest funds could be better spent on long-term solutions, like air purifiers for schools. Some blame the government for delayed action despite advance warnings. While the debate continues, Bangkok’s haze crisis persists, highlighting the need for more sustainable strategies.

Thai Bolt Driver Exposed for Faking Heroic Story A Thai Bolt driver, Chokchai Wailew, apologized after fabricating a heartwarming social media story to gain attention. The tale, shared under the alias "Mook Kanokwan," described Chokchai helping an intoxicated passenger with kindness and a touching farewell message. Initially praised by other drivers, the story unraveled when users noticed inconsistencies and traced the account to Chokchai himself. Further investigations revealed his history of fraudulent behavior, leading to his blacklisting and termination from Nawamin Football Club. Chokchai admitted to creating the story for social media recognition and urged the public to stop harassing his family.

New Hotel Act to Register 500+ Unlicensed Thai Hotels The Tourism and Sports Ministry plans to propose a revised Hotel Act targeting small and medium-sized accommodations, aiming to register over 500 unlicensed properties out of 90,000 that don't qualify under current laws. The act will reduce restrictions but maintain safety as a priority, encouraging operators to upgrade properties to meet standards. Challenges like environmental and city planning laws hinder registration for some guesthouses, with regional differences complicating the process. Stakeholders argue that amending related regulations may offer faster solutions than the lengthy Hotel Act revision process. Additionally, a co-payment tourism stimulus initiative with 1 million privileges is set for June, and the 2025 Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year strategy will be announced on February 3.

Operation Dragon Slayer Targets Chinese Crime-Linked Villas in Chon Buri Thai police have raided five luxury villas in Chon Buri as part of "Operation Dragon Slayer," cracking down on Chinese criminal enterprises laundering money through the tourism sector. Investigators suspect funds from call-center scams were funneled into prime real estate targeting Chinese tourists. The villas, worth over 20 million Thai Baht collectively, were registered under Thai company names, believed to be fronts for Chinese owners. Payments for these properties involved cash, foreign currencies, and digital transactions to obscure financial trails. Authorities aim to dismantle these networks to protect Thailand’s tourism industry, with further actions and arrests anticipated.

Two suspects at large after assaulting Thai doctor outside Bangkok clinic Police are searching for two suspects who assaulted Dr. Chanesd Srisukho, 37, outside his Silom beauty clinic on January 25. The attackers, described as men in their 30s and 40s, arrived on an orange Honda PCX motorcycle and attacked the doctor with fists and a motorcycle helmet. CCTV footage captured the incident and the suspects’ identities, as neither wore face coverings. The attackers fled towards Sathon Road. Dr. Chanesd, who suffered facial injuries, suspects the motive may involve his clinic’s success or a dispute with a former shareholder. Police are investigating but have yet to identify the suspects.

Foul Play Suspected in Death of Thai Intern in Japan The family of Kornnaphat “Nat” Promsung, a 25-year-old Thai intern, suspects foul play in his death after his body was found in a Thai restaurant in Hiroshima, Japan. Nat went missing after a dormitory party on December 21, followed by celebrations at the restaurant. Despite efforts by colleagues, police, and Japan’s labor ministry, no trace of Nat was found until his body was discovered at the restaurant weeks later. The family is skeptical of the restaurant owner’s denial of involvement and has called on Thai authorities, including the Prime Minister, to investigate further. They seek a review of CCTV footage and assistance from Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to uncover the circumstances of Nat’s death, believing he was murdered and his body concealed.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as covered in Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex. These stories range from two suspects at large after assaulting Thai doctor to PNP officer in ₱6.7-B drug case fleeing the Philippines. Two Suspects at Large After Assaulting Thai Doctor Police are hunting two men who attacked Dr. Chanesd Srisukho outside his clinic in Bangkok. The suspects fled on a motorcycle after using a helmet to assault the doctor. 1. Foul Play Suspected in Thai Intern’s Death in Japan The family of Kornnaphat Promsung suspects murder after his body was found in a Thai restaurant in Hiroshima weeks after he went missing. 2. Police Raid Chinese Crime-Linked Villas in Chon Buri Thai authorities uncovered a Chinese money-laundering ring linked to luxury villas bought with funds from call-center scams. 3. New Hotel Act Aims to Register 500+ Illegal Accommodations Thailand’s Tourism Ministry plans to amend the Hotel Act to legalize unlicensed accommodations and boost tourism with new incentives. 4. Critics Question Bangkok’s Free Transport Amid Haze Crisis Bangkok’s free transport plan to curb PM2.5 pollution faces criticism, with experts calling for long-term environmental solutions. 5. Thai Bolt Driver Apologizes for Fake Heroic Story A Bolt driver admitted fabricating a viral story to gain attention. He’s now blacklisted after his history of fraud was uncovered. 6. Malaysia Cracks Down on $4 Million Vape Smuggling Syndicate Authorities arrested 14 smugglers at Kuala Lumpur Airport, highlighting growing concerns over youth vape addiction and synthetic drug use. 7. Beloved News Anchor Noo Manet Athana Dies at 37 Noo Manet Athana, a respected Cambodian news anchor, passed away in Bangkok. Her funeral will be held in Phnom Penh. 8. Female Mastermind of $40M Scam Arrested in Vietnam Phạm Thị Huyền Trang led a massive fraud scheme, tricking over 13,000 victims through fake apps and identity theft scams. 9. PNP Officer in ₱6.7-B Drug Case Flees Philippines A Philippine police general linked to a ₱6.7-billion drug mishandling case fled the country, with 20 officers already in custody.

Thais Oppose Casino Complex and Online Gambling Plans, Poll Finds A NIDA Poll conducted among 1,310 Thai adults revealed strong public disapproval of government proposals to establish a casino-entertainment complex and legalize online gambling. Key findings: 59.19% opposed the casino complex entirely, and 58.32% rejected online gambling legalization. Public concerns center on gambling addiction and moral objections, despite arguments for potential economic benefits. The results underscore the need for the Thai government to address these concerns while balancing economic interests and social well-being.

Phuket to Use AI to Tackle Traffic Congestion Amid Roadwork Phuket plans to implement AI-driven adaptive traffic control to address worsening congestion, particularly during peak tourism periods. Inspired by Bangkok’s successful system, which improved travel times by 25%, the initiative will manage traffic lights based on real-time patterns. Proposed by Phuket Police during Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s visit, the project is pending budget approval. With tourism rising, officials emphasize public cooperation and adherence to traffic rules to ease congestion.

Teacher’s Aide Arrested for Abducting 10-Year-Old Boy in Phetchaburi A 19-year-old teacher’s aide, Saowaros Taengon, was arrested for allegedly abducting a 10-year-old boy, Owen, in Phetchaburi. Owen disappeared on January 25 while taking out the trash, sparking a police search after relatives reported him missing. Security footage showed a woman arriving on a motorcycle and taking Owen away. Owen was later found abandoned near a local temple. He claimed a motorcyclist threatened him and took him to a forested area before transferring him to a van. The van driver released him near a university, where Owen sought help. Saowaros, a teacher’s aide at Owen’s school, alleged she was helping transport him but left him after he refused to enter her home. Police are investigating the conflicting accounts.

British Man Arrested in Thailand for 2004 UK Murder Case Thai authorities arrested 62-year-old British national David Stuart Armitage, a suspect in the 2004 murder of his Thai wife, Lamduan Armitage, whose body was found in the Yorkshire Dales and identified in 2019 through DNA testing. Lamduan, known as "The Lady of the Hills," had moved to the UK with Armitage and their children, reportedly enduring domestic abuse before her disappearance. Armitage was captured in Kanchanaburi Province on January 23, 2025, after years in hiding. His residency permit was revoked, and he was detained for extradition under the Thai-UK Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty. The arrest, achieved through Thai Immigration and the Department of Special Investigation, underscores the value of international cooperation in solving long-standing cases and delivering justice.

Six British Nationals Arrested in Phuket for Drug Possession Six British men were arrested in Phuket after a police raid uncovered six kilograms of cannabis and 39 nitrous oxide tanks. The bust occurred at a residence in the Muang district, where the cannabis was found near and inside a bedroom. One occupant admitted owning the cannabis but lacked the required permit for sale. All six men, in Thailand on valid tourist visas, now face charges of unauthorized possession and potential intent to distribute. The arrests highlight Thailand’s strict drug laws, emphasizing the need for tourists to comply with local regulations to avoid severe penalties.

Swiss Dog Owner Defies Thai Beach Ban, Reigniting Safety Concerns A Swiss man, Mathias, has sparked renewed controversy by ignoring a ban on walking his dogs at Suan Luang Beach, Bang Saphan district, following previous dog attacks on tourists. Despite an ongoing legal case, Mathias was seen on January 20 with four unleashed dogs, prompting complaints from residents and tourists. Video evidence shows locals and visitors, including children, immobilized in fear. Officials acknowledge the issue but face challenges in imposing stricter measures. Locals continue to demand action to protect public safety and restore tourism confidence.

The transcription below highlights news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, featured on the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex. The topics range from the arrest of a British man for a 2004 UK murder in Thailand to Vietnam uncovering a $40 million TikTok scam network. 1. British Man Arrested for 2004 UK Murder in Thailand David Stuart Armitage, 62, was arrested in Kanchanaburi for the 2004 murder of his Thai wife. Extradition proceedings are underway. 2. Six Britons Caught with Drugs in Phuket Police seized six kilograms of cannabis and 39 nitrous oxide tanks from a rented home in Phuket. Charges are pending. 3. Swiss Man Sparks Outrage Over Thai Beach Dog Ban A Swiss national defied a dog-walking ban at Suan Luang Beach, renewing safety concerns after past attacks. 4. Teacher’s Aide Arrested for Abducting Boy in Phetchaburi A 19-year-old aide was detained after abducting a 10-year-old boy. Police are investigating conflicting accounts. 5. Thais Oppose Gambling Legalization, Poll Reveals A survey found that 59% of Thais reject casinos, citing concerns over addiction and morality despite potential economic benefits. 6. Phuket Eyes AI to Reduce Traffic Congestion An AI traffic control system is being planned to ease road congestion in Phuket. Budget approval is pending. 7. Indian Tourist Claims Racism at Cambodia Border An Indian traveler alleged mistreatment at a Cambodian checkpoint, sparking viral debate over border practices. 8. Father to Sue Over Son’s Circumcision Complications A Kedah boy required surgery after a mass circumcision went wrong. The father seeks legal action to prevent recurrences. 9. Indonesia Demands Probe Into Migrant Worker Shooting Indonesia urged Malaysia to investigate a fatal shooting by maritime officers, ensuring justice for the victims. 10. Vietnam Busts $40M TikTok Scam Network Vietnamese police dismantled a fraud ring exploiting work-from-home scams, defrauding victims of millions through TikTok.

Pattaya Beach Dispute Turns Violent Over Stolen Mat A dispute over a stolen beach mat escalated into violence on Pattaya Beach early on January 22, leaving 59-year-old vendor Suphanee injured. She confronted a fellow vendor, accusing him of stealing her marked mat, which had its identification erased. The accused, reportedly drunk, punched her in the face, leaving her with a bruised forehead. Witnesses confirmed prior tensions between the vendors, who compete for business on the busy beach. The suspect admitted to the assault, citing frustration over the accusation. Police are investigating, with potential charges of assault and theft.

Thai Couple Arrested for Producing Ketamine-Laced "Pod K" Police raided a luxury condo in Bangkok’s Thon Buri area on January 21, arresting a Thai couple, Pond and Film, for producing and distributing "Pod K," a ketamine-laced e-cigarette popular among teenagers. The couple used Line messaging and app-based delivery services to sell the flavored devices, priced at 1,300–1,500 baht. Authorities seized ketamine-laced e-liquids, methamphetamine, ecstasy, drug-infused drinks, and other illegal substances. The suspects face charges for manufacturing and possessing narcotics, carrying potential penalties of up to 15 years in prison and fines up to 2 million baht. Police are investigating potential accomplices in the operation.

Thai Man with Disability Loses Motorcycle to Online Acquaintance Thanathat Sisarikorn, a 32-year-old man with a disability, had his motorcycle stolen by a woman he met online in Nonthaburi. The woman, Jee, reconnected with him after previously distancing herself and visited his apartment on January 20. While Thanathat showered, Jee fled with his motorcycle, a black Honda PCX worth over 100,000 baht. She later blocked him on Facebook. Thanathat filed a police report and shared his story online, appealing for help in recovering the vehicle. Reports suggest Jee has a history of theft, prompting calls for swift police action.

Anutin Orders Crackdown on Burning to Combat PM2.5 Pollution Thailand's Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has directed provincial governors and district officers nationwide to enforce strict measures against open burning to tackle rising PM2.5 pollution. Offenders will face legal action. Secretary Traisulee Traisoranakul reported on January 22, 2025, that worsening air quality due to weather conditions is impacting public health. Anutin emphasized preventing agricultural and waste burning, major contributors to toxic dust and urged collaboration among authorities to educate the public. The directive includes increased inspections and strict enforcement of penalties to reduce pollution, addressing the health risks posed by the persistent PM2.5 crisis.

Mammoth Madness in Phuket: Escaped Elephant Sparks Chaos This morning, an escaped elephant roamed the streets of Cherng Talay, Phuket, causing minor damage and distress. The incident began around 10 a.m. when the elephant fled its camp, tangled in scaffolding, and headed toward a local school. Panic peaked as it entered the school grounds before wading into a nearby canal. Police, locals, and the mahout worked together to safely recapture the agitated animal, returning it to Elephant Care Park. The camp manager cited a car horn as the trigger for the escape. Despite the disruption, swift action ensured no injuries and minimal damage.

Foreign Man Arrested in Chiang Mai for Selling Psilocybin Mushrooms A 59-year-old foreign national was arrested in Chiang Mai for selling psilocybin mushrooms mixed with honey to tourists. The suspect, reportedly married to a Thai woman, operated from an unregistered shop on Ratchawithi Road in the Sriphum district. On January 22, Anti-Drug Unit officers, following an investigation, raided the premises and seized 15 bottles of the illicit substance. The man was charged with illegal possession of a Type 5 narcotic under Thai drug laws. This arrest highlights authorities’ continued efforts to combat drug-related crimes in the country. Legal proceedings are underway.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented in the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex and Jay. The stories range from an escaped elephant causing a stir in Cherng Talay to a charity event in Phnom Penh that turned deadly. 1. Mammoth Madness in Phuket: Escaped Elephant Sparks Chaos An escaped elephant caused a stir in Cherng Talay, Phuket, as it roamed the streets, damaged property, and entered a school. Authorities swiftly recaptured the animal, ensuring no injuries and minimal damage. 2. Thai Man with Disability Loses Motorcycle to Online Acquaintance A disabled man in Nonthaburi was robbed of his motorcycle by an online acquaintance. The suspect, known for past thefts, is under police investigation. 3. Thai Couple Arrested for Producing Ketamine-Laced "Pod K" Bangkok police busted a couple producing "Pod K" e-cigarettes laced with ketamine. The operation included drug-laced products sold online, leading to serious narcotics charges. 4. Pattaya Beach Dispute Turns Violent Over Stolen Mat A confrontation between Pattaya beach vendors over a stolen mat led to an assault, leaving one vendor injured. Police are investigating the incident. 5. Anutin Orders Crackdown on Burning to Combat PM2.5 Pollution Thailand’s Interior Minister ordered stricter enforcement against open burning to address PM2.5 pollution, emphasizing education and legal action. 6. Foreign Man Arrested in Chiang Mai for Selling Psilocybin Mushrooms A foreigner in Chiang Mai was caught selling psilocybin mushrooms to tourists. Police seized 15 bottles of the illegal substance, leading to charges. 7. Singapore PM Warns of Global Risk if U.S.-China Rivalry Forces Sides Singapore PM Lawrence Wong warned against forcing Southeast Asia to choose sides in U.S.-China tensions, citing global risks. 8. Indonesia Floods and Landslides Claim 21 Lives, Search Continues Floods and landslides in Central Java, Indonesia, left 21 dead and five missing. Rescuers continue to search amid severe devastation. 9. Charity Event in Phnom Penh Turns Deadly, 4 Killed and 5 Injured Overcrowding at a charity event in Phnom Penh resulted in four fatalities and five injuries. Authorities provided aid to affected families. 10. PH Gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar Takes Leave to Heal from Eating Disorder Olympian Levi Jung-Ruivivar announced a break from Stanford to focus on recovering from an eating disorder, inspiring others with her transparency.