Video News

French Tourist Missing After Boat Capsizes in Surat Thani A long-tail boat carrying 13 people capsized in Surat Thani’s Cheow Lan Dam on November 23 due to a sudden storm, leaving 83-year-old French tourist Rene Mary Corre missing. The group of 10 French tourists, guided by a local tour company, encountered clear weather initially, but strong winds and rain struck abruptly near the Three Friends Mountain, capsising the boat. All passengers wore life jackets, and nearby boats rescued 12 individuals, with four sustaining minor injuries. Search efforts using GPS tracking found the missing tourist’s belongings but were halted at 18:00 due to rough conditions, set to resume the next day.

Chaos at Don Mueang Airport as Bomb Threat Sparks Panic On November 21, a Singaporean man caused chaos at Don Mueang Airport by falsely claiming a bomb was aboard an AirAsia flight. Authorities halted the plane, evacuated 162 passengers and crew, and conducted a thorough search, finding no threats. The suspect, Mr. Ho Wai Chong, was arrested the next day in the terminal, confessing the hoax was due to family stress. Mr. Ho, who overstayed his visa, faces charges under Thailand’s Aviation Offenses Act, with potential penalties of 5–15 years in prison and fines up to 600,000 baht. He will be deported and blacklisted.

British Tourist Attacked in Pattaya: Police Investigate A British tourist was violently assaulted in Pattaya’s South area on Third Road, suffering a broken nose, bruised eye socket, and facial injuries. Witnesses reported seeing a white pickup truck drop off the injured man, with a Thai male leaving the vehicle. The tourist, intoxicated and unable to recount the incident clearly, may have been travelling via a ride-hailing service like Bolt. Police are analysing CCTV footage to identify the perpetrator and uncover the motive. The investigation is ongoing, with legal action pending the identification of the suspect.

The transcription below covers news stories from Thailand and across Asia, ranging from the bomb hoax that caused chaos at Don Mueang Airport to Taiwan's victory in the Premier12 Baseball Gold. 1. Bomb Hoax Causes Chaos at Don Mueang Airport: A Singaporean man falsely claimed a bomb on an AirAsia flight, leading to an evacuation and his arrest for aviation offences. 2. French Tourist Missing in Surat Thani Boat Accident: An elderly French tourist remains missing after a storm capsized a long-tail boat on Cheow Lan Dam. 3. British Tourist Assaulted in Pattaya: Police investigate an attack on a British man found injured on Third Road, reportedly involving a pickup truck. 4. Tiger Trafficking Ring Busted in Nonthaburi: Police uncovered illegal tiger skins worth 430,000 baht in a wildlife trafficking raid. 5. Viral Video Spurs Manhunt for ‘Foreign Gang’: Thai police launch a nationwide search after a video allegedly shows foreigners breaking the law. 6. 6,000 Motorcyclists Cause Chaos in Phetchabun: A large motorbike trip boosts tourism but raises safety concerns with multiple accidents reported. 7. Methanol Poisoning Kills Six Tourists in Laos: Contaminated alcohol is under investigation after six foreign tourists died in Vang Vieng. 8. Cambodian Clinic Owners Charged for Patient Death: A couple running an unlicensed clinic face charges after dumping a patient’s body and abandoning a child. 9. Bali Nine Members to Be Transferred to Australia: Indonesia will repatriate the remaining Bali Nine drug smugglers in a prisoner exchange deal. 10. Philippine VP Duterte Threatens President Marcos: A political rift deepens as Duterte claims she instructed an assassin to target the president. 11. Taiwan Wins Premier12 Baseball Gold: Taiwan beats Japan 4-0 in a historic victory, marking Japan’s first loss in a major international tournament since 2019.

Bangkok Airways Adds French Jets to Meet Tourist Demand Facing a record surge in tourism, Bangkok Airways has leased two Airbus aircraft from French airline Amelia to bolster its operations during the peak season. Starting December 1, the A319-100 and A320-200 will serve routes from Bangkok to Luang Prabang, Siem Reap, and Phnom Penh, with flights running daily or multiple times a day. The additional planes, accommodating 144 and 178 passengers, will remain in service until March 2025. This move addresses the airline's capacity shortfall as it works to restore pre-pandemic levels, with plans for a fleet upgrade by 2028.

12 Corpses Found in Kamphaeng Phet Cult Raid Police raided a cult site in Kamphaeng Phet on November 20, uncovering 12 corpses allegedly used in rituals by the Sirichan Forest Monastery. Led by monk Saifon, the cult reportedly performed practices claiming to develop supernatural abilities like clairvoyance and fearlessness. Some corpses were buried, while others were in coffins, with cult members presenting documents claiming legal consent from families. Police are verifying these claims, with DNA testing underway to confirm identities. If irregularities are found, legal action will follow.

Narathiwat Bomb Scare Forces Emergency School Closure Four homemade bombs hidden in rubbish bags exploded early on November 21 along Road 4136 in Narathiwat's Kokkian subdistrict, prompting the closure of Ban Hutaetuao School and a large-scale police investigation. The devices, planted 500 meters apart, caused minor ground damage but no injuries or property harm. Witnesses reported four men on motorcycles placing the bombs before fleeing. Authorities linked the explosives to digital wristwatch timers and secured the area. Investigations are ongoing, with police intensifying efforts to identify and apprehend the suspects.

Thai Couple Seeks Justice After Motorcycle Collision with Russian Driver in Phuket A Thai couple is pursuing legal action after a Russian man allegedly crashed his SUV into their motorcycle in Thalang, Phuket, on November 17. The accident left the woman with visible injuries and both victims unable to work due to their condition. The Russian driver, accused of speeding out of an alley, denied responsibility and refused to pay compensation, daring the couple to take the matter to court. A police-arranged meeting failed to resolve the dispute, prompting the couple to share their story on social media to seek advice and expose the incident.

Indian Man Arrested for Firing Blank Gun in Pattaya On November 20, chaos erupted in Pattaya's Soi Kopai neighborhood when a 36-year-old Indian man, Sunil, fired a blank gun into the air while intoxicated, causing panic. Responding to the late-night incident, police seized the unmodified firearm and 22 rounds of ammunition. Sunil claimed he fired the gun on a dare, unaware of the legal consequences. He was arrested and taken to Pattaya City Police Station for further questioning.

Egyptian Tourist Arrested for Sexual Assault in Bangkok Condo Lift On November 20, 2024, Makkasan Police arrested a 36-year-old Egyptian man, Mr. Sameh, for sexually assaulting a 25-year-old woman in a luxury condominium lift near Rama 9. The incident occurred on November 16 when the victim, Ms. B, was followed into her building by the suspect, who groped her before fleeing. Through CCTV footage, police identified and apprehended Mr. Sameh at his residence. He confessed to the crime during questioning and remains in custody while legal proceedings continue.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia. Topics range from the arrest of an Egyptian tourist for sexual assault in Bangkok to Indonesia’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. 1. Egyptian Tourist Arrested for Sexual Assault in Bangkok Police arrested a 36-year-old Egyptian man, Mr. Sameh, for sexually assaulting a 25-year-old woman in a Bangkok condo lift on November 16. CCTV footage led to his capture at his residence. He confessed to the crime and remains in custody. 2. Indian Man Arrested for Firing Blank Gun in Pattaya A 36-year-old Indian man, Sunil, caused panic in Pattaya's Soi Kopai by firing a blank gun while intoxicated. Police seized the weapon and ammunition, arresting him for further questioning. 3. Thai Couple Seeks Justice After Phuket Crash A Thai couple injured in a Phuket motorcycle collision is suing a Russian SUV driver who allegedly caused the crash and refused compensation. A failed police mediation led them to expose the case online. 4. Narathiwat Bomb Scare Closes School Four homemade bombs exploded in Narathiwat on November 21, forcing Ban Hutaetuao School to close. Police linked the bombs to digital timers and are pursuing the suspects. 5. Cult Raid in Kamphaeng Phet Uncovers 12 Corpses Police raided Sirichan Forest Monastery in Kamphaeng Phet, finding 12 corpses allegedly used in rituals. Authorities are verifying claims of family consent as DNA testing continues. 6. Bangkok Airways Adds French Jets for Tourist Boom To meet rising tourist demand, Bangkok Airways leased two Airbus planes from Amelia. Starting December 1, the jets will serve routes to Luang Prabang, Siem Reap, and Phnom Penh until March 2025. 7. Malaysian Man Sentenced to Public Caning for Islamic Offense A Malaysian man will receive six strokes of the cane and a fine for his third ‘khalwat’ offense. Terengganu’s first public caning under amended Islamic laws is set for December 6. 8. Cambodia’s Canal Project Stalls Amid Chinese Funding Delays Cambodia’s $1.7 billion Funan Techo Canal project faces delays as China’s funding remains uncertain. Officials struggle to secure new investments, leaving the project’s site abandoned. 9. Singapore’s ‘Sewage Beer’ Showcases Innovation at COP29 NEWBrew, a beer made from recycled wastewater, highlighted Singapore’s water recycling efforts at COP29. The eco-friendly brew, launched in 2018, aims to normalize sustainable water use. 10. Indonesia Targets Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Indonesia plans to hit net zero by 2050, retiring coal plants within 15 years and building 75 gigawatts of renewable energy. The move leverages abundant renewables and rainforests to lead in sustainability.

Fundraiser Supports British Teacher Injured in Thailand Crash A fundraising campaign has raised over £11,000 for Andy Davis, a 33-year-old British teacher injured in a severe crash in Krabi, Thailand. Davis, who lost a leg and suffered a shattered pelvis and torn bladder, faces medical costs exceeding £30,000 for treatment and transfer to Bangkok and the UK. Complications, including infections, have worsened his condition, potentially requiring further amputation. His parents have flown to Thailand as he struggles with consciousness and insurance arrangements. Known for his global teaching career, Davis has inspired many, with worldwide donations reflecting his positive impact. Support continues via a GoFundMe campaign.

White Spots on Thai Sausage Explained A photo of northern Thai sausage, sai ua, with mysterious white spots caused a stir on social media after a buyer questioned its safety. Experts, including a former vendor, clarified that the spots are part of the natural casing used during stuffing and are harmless. The lively discussion highlighted traditional food preparation quirks that may confuse unfamiliar consumers. Social media played a key role in educating and reassuring the public, emphasizing the importance of preserving culinary traditions and bridging gaps between modern and traditional practices.

Thai Health Minister Blocks 24-Hour Hotel Alcohol Sales Thai Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin rejected proposals for 24-hour alcohol sales in hotels and train stations due to safety and regulatory concerns. Alcohol sales on trains, including sleeper cars and dining areas, were denied pending further review. The Thai Hotels Association’s proposal for round-the-clock hotel alcohol sales was also declined, though in-room minibar consumption may be permitted with new guidelines. The minister emphasized stricter alcohol regulation, focusing on no-sale zones, age limits, and sobriety campaigns under the Alcohol Control Act.

Thai Woman Sentenced to Death for Cyanide Murders A Thai court sentenced Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn, 36, to death for murdering a friend with cyanide, part of a series of alleged killings of 14 acquaintances since 2015. Sararat, nicknamed "Am Cyanide," reportedly poisoned her victims, stole valuables, and had a gambling addiction. Her friend Siriporn Khanwong died after a trip with Sararat in 2023, leading to her arrest. Investigators uncovered traces of cyanide and missing possessions. Sararat pleaded not guilty, while her ex-husband and lawyer received jail terms for evidence tampering.

Petrol Prices in Thailand Rise Amid Global Oil Fluctuations Starting November 21 at 5 am, petrol and gasohol prices in Thailand will rise by 30 satangs per litre, with petrol reaching 44.24 baht per litre and Gasohol 95 at 35.95 baht. Diesel prices remain stable, with Diesel B7 at 32.94 baht per litre. The hike, driven by global oil market shifts and local policies, may raise transportation costs, potentially affecting goods and services prices. Commuters and businesses are urged to adjust budgets and consider alternatives like carpooling or public transport.

Thailand Tourism Soars with 30 Million Visitors in 2024 Thailand's tourism is thriving, with over 30.5 million foreign visitors between January and mid-November, generating 1.43 trillion baht in revenue. Key markets include China (5.97 million tourists), Malaysia (4.36 million), and India (1.82 million). The Loy Krathong festival spurred a 4.53% increase in short-haul arrivals from China, Japan, and South Korea. High season is expected to bring more European visitors, aided by expanded airline seat capacity and eased visa rules. With a target of 36.7 million tourists this year, Thailand is nearing its pre-pandemic peak of 40 million in 2019.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Asia, hosted by Alex and Jay. Highlights include a Thai woman sentenced to death for cyanide murders and New Delhi’s pollution reaching hazardous levels. 1. Thai Woman Sentenced to Death for Cyanide Murders A Thai court sentenced Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn, 36, to death for using cyanide to kill a friend, uncovering a series of 14 alleged murders since 2015. Known as "Am Cyanide," Sararat reportedly poisoned victims, stole valuables, and funded her gambling addiction. Her friend's death in 2023 led to her arrest, with investigators finding cyanide traces and stolen possessions. Sararat denies the charges, while her ex-husband and lawyer received jail terms for evidence tampering. 2. Petrol Prices Rise in Thailand Due to Global Oil Shifts Petrol and gasohol prices in Thailand rose by 30 satangs per litre on November 21, pushing petrol to 44.24 baht per litre and Gasohol 95 to 35.95 baht. Diesel prices remain stable. The hike, driven by global oil market changes, could increase transportation and goods costs. Commuters are encouraged to adjust budgets and consider carpooling or public transport. 3. Thai Health Minister Rejects 24-Hour Alcohol Sales in Hotels Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has blocked 24-hour alcohol sales in hotels and on trains, citing safety concerns. Proposals for round-the-clock alcohol availability were declined, though in-room minibar consumption may be allowed under new guidelines. Somsak emphasized stricter alcohol regulations to ensure public safety. 4. Thailand Welcomes Over 30 Million Tourists in 2024 Thailand’s tourism industry has rebounded, with 30.5 million visitors from January to mid-November, generating 1.43 trillion baht. Key markets include China, Malaysia, and India. The Loy Krathong festival and relaxed visa rules boosted arrivals, while the high season is expected to draw more European travelers. Thailand is on track to meet its 36.7 million visitor target for 2024. 5. White Spots on Thai Sausage Are Harmless, Experts Say A viral photo of Thai sausage, sai ua, raised safety concerns due to visible white spots. Experts clarified that the spots are harmless and part of the natural casing. Social media discussions highlighted the importance of understanding traditional food preparation and preserving culinary heritage. 6. Fundraiser Supports Injured British Teacher in Thailand A fundraiser has collected over £11,000 for Andy Davis, a British teacher injured in a Krabi crash. Davis, who lost a leg and sustained severe injuries, faces medical costs of over £30,000. Complications have worsened his condition, requiring further care. Donations continue to support him through GoFundMe. 7. Indonesia Agrees to Repatriate Mary Jane Veloso Indonesia will repatriate Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino on death row for drug trafficking, to serve her sentence in the Philippines. Veloso, granted a reprieve in 2015, claims she was duped into becoming a drug courier. Her return, expected in December, will enable her to testify against human traffickers involved in her case. 8. Taiwan Extradites Golfer for Drug Smuggling Taiwan extradited a 30-year-old golf champion suspected of smuggling 51 kg of marijuana from the U.S. in sofa parts. Linked to the Bamboo Union gang, the suspect was arrested with help from U.S. law enforcement. Authorities also detained seven others in the case, highlighting international efforts against drug trafficking. 9. Australians Hospitalized After Alcohol Poisoning in Laos Two Australian tourists are recovering in Thailand after consuming methanol-contaminated drinks in Laos. The women fell ill after free vodka shots at a hostel in Vang Vieng. Methanol poisoning, which can be fatal, remains a risk for travelers consuming unregulated alcohol. 10. New Delhi’s Pollution Hits Hazardous Levels New Delhi’s air quality plunged to hazardous levels, prompting school closures and construction bans. Toxic smog from crop burning, emissions, and coal use worsened conditions, putting millions at health risk. Authorities imposed emergency restrictions, but experts stressed long-term solutions to the crisis.

Thai Police Officer Investigated Over 500 Baht Bribe Claim in Khon Kaen A Thai traffic police sergeant in Khon Kaen is under investigation after a viral video showed him accepting a 500 baht bribe. While the officer admitted to taking the money and claimed to have returned it, disciplinary and criminal proceedings have been initiated. Colonel Yoswat Kaewsupthanit confirmed the incident occurred in August and reassigned the officer during the inquiry. He criticized the officer for bypassing proper procedures, emphasizing that fines should be issued through official channels. A fact-finding committee has been set up to investigate, with results expected in seven days.

New Alcohol Control Bill Nearly Finalised Thailand's Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill is 80% complete and expected to be presented to parliament by mid-December. The legislation consolidates five initial drafts into a single proposal after eight months of review. Key features include empowering provincial committees to establish zoning and regulations tailored to local needs, with youth council representatives included to address underage drinking. The bill targets rising alcohol consumption, particularly among women, and includes strict penalties for selling to minors or intoxicated individuals. Parliament is expected to prioritize this public health-focused legislation in the December session.

200 Monkeys Run Riot in Thailand, Forcing Police to Barricade Their Own Station In Lopburi, Thailand, 200 monkeys escaped from enclosures, wreaking havoc across the town and forcing police to barricade themselves inside their station. The primates rampaged through streets and perched on the station's roof, prompting authorities to lure them away with food. Lopburi, home to thousands of monkeys revered for their connection to the Hindu god Hanuman, has struggled with the growing population's aggressive behavior and vandalism. Despite sterilization and relocation efforts, the uneasy coexistence continues, fueled by the town's long-standing religious and tourist traditions, including an annual fruit feast for the macaques.

Nakhon Phanom: Drugs Found Hidden in Buddha Statues Seized Thai police in Nakhon Phanom seized heroin and crystal meth worth over 100 million baht, hidden inside Buddha statues. Acting on a tip-off, authorities discovered three abandoned statues near a cemetery, which concealed 12kg of heroin and 117kg of methamphetamine packaged in tea bags. The drugs, believed to have originated from Laos, were smuggled across the Mekong River. Police suspect a broader trafficking network exploiting religious artifacts.

Drunk British Tourist’s Pattaya Night Out Ends in Punch-Up A drunk British tourist in his 60s was injured in a brawl with two locals in Pattaya after a night out. The altercation occurred when the locals offered to drive him home, but the man allegedly became aggressive and attacked them. The fight left him with a broken nose and cuts. The locals, two entertainment technicians, claimed self-defense, stating the tourist struck their vehicle and initiated the conflict. Police are reviewing CCTV footage to clarify the events and ensure a fair resolution.

Thai Transwoman and Foreigner Clash Over Gender Misunderstanding in Phuket A clash erupted between a Thai transwoman and a foreign man in a Phuket hotel after the man discovered her gender and refused to compensate her for her time. The argument escalated into a physical altercation in the hotel room, causing disruption. Shared by Phuket Times on Facebook, the incident drew significant attention, with over 5,000 reactions. Many commenters criticized the transwoman for not disclosing her gender upfront, citing issues of sexual preference and potential safety concerns.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, hosted by Alex and Jay. Topics range from a gender misunderstanding clash in Phuket to Cambodia's efforts to combat foreign-led human trafficking. 1. Phuket Clash Over Gender Misunderstanding A Thai transwoman and a foreign man clashed in a Phuket hotel after he discovered her gender and refused compensation for her time. The dispute escalated into a physical altercation, shared widely online, drawing over 5,000 reactions. Critics highlighted the importance of upfront gender disclosure, citing safety and personal preferences. 2. Drunk British Tourist Brawls in Pattaya A drunken British tourist in his 60s brawled with two locals in Pattaya after allegedly becoming aggressive when they offered him a ride. The fight left him injured with a broken nose. Locals claim self-defence, and police are reviewing CCTV footage to clarify the incident. 3. Drugs Found in Buddha Statues in Nakhon Phanom Police in Nakhon Phanom seized heroin and meth worth over 100 million baht hidden in Buddha statues near a cemetery. Believed to originate from Laos, the drugs point to a larger trafficking network exploiting religious artefacts. 4. Thai Officer Probed Over Bribe in Khon Kaen A Khon Kaen traffic sergeant faces investigation after a viral video showed him accepting a 500-baht bribe. Though he returned the money, disciplinary action is underway. Authorities stress fines must follow official procedures. 5. New Alcohol Bill Nears Completion Thailand's Alcohol Control Bill, now 80% complete, will empower local zoning laws and target underage drinking. With strict penalties for selling to minors, the bill aims to curb rising alcohol consumption and will reach Parliament by mid-December. 6. 200 Monkeys Cause Chaos in Lopburi In Lopburi, 200 monkeys escaped, rampaging through streets and forcing police to barricade their station. Authorities lured them away with food, highlighting ongoing struggles with the town’s growing macaque population despite sterilization efforts. 7. Apple Offers $100M to End Indonesia iPhone Ban Apple proposed a $100 million investment to lift Indonesia’s iPhone 16 ban, imposed for not meeting local content rules. Indonesia seeks greater R&D contributions, reflecting its push for local manufacturing, though aggressive demands may deter investors. 8. Typhoon Man-yi Devastates the Philippines Typhoon Man-yi killed seven in the Philippines, triggering landslides, displacing 700,000 people, and destroying 8,000 homes. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with officials warning of severe infrastructure damage and rice shortages. Aid is mobilizing to address the crisis. 9. Cambodia Targets Foreign-Led Human Trafficking Cambodia is ramping up efforts against human trafficking by foreign perpetrators, including scams and cross-border exploitation. Officials face challenges investigating cases involving evidence abroad, underscoring the need for international cooperation. 10. Mahathir Criticizes Chinese Signboards in Malaysia Former Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad criticized the dominance of Chinese-language signboards in Kuala Lumpur malls, urging greater use of Malay. His comments sparked debate over cultural identity and catering to growing Chinese tourism.