Video News

British Man Arrested for Defrauding Wife and Forging Documents A British man, identified as Mr. Quentin, was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport for allegedly defrauding his Thai wife and forging documents to sell company assets worth over 20 million baht. As a director of a Pattaya-based company co-owned with his wife, he reportedly used a falsified police report to replace a missing land deed, enabling the secret sale of company land and shares. The wife discovered the fraud and reported it, prompting a Pattaya court to issue a warrant. Mr. Quentin denies the charges and faces further legal proceedings with the Economic Crime Suppression Division.

Bangkok Tops Agoda’s List for Chinese New Year Travel Bangkok has claimed the top spot for Chinese New Year celebrations, attracting both Thai and foreign tourists, according to Agoda. The city saw a surge in accommodation searches, with foreign interest rising 70% year-over-year. Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and emerging destinations like Khon Kaen also saw significant increases, with Khon Kaen searches skyrocketing by 2,964%. Malaysians led foreign traveler searches, followed by Chinese and South Koreans. Meanwhile, Tokyo remains the favorite international destination for Thai tourists, followed by Seoul and Osaka, highlighting shifting travel trends.

Bangkok Takes Action on Smoky Buses to Combat Pollution Bangkok is intensifying efforts to combat its air pollution crisis, focusing on emissions from public buses. City officials inspected BMTA buses, finding one vehicle exceeding emission standards, while others showed concerning white smoke. Officials aim to lower opacity limits and accelerate the transition to electric buses, promising long-term pollution reduction. The inspections are part of broader measures to address harmful PM2.5 levels, signaling a push for cleaner public transport and stricter enforcement to tackle the city's urgent air quality challenges. Polish Tourist Arrested for Spanking Incident in Bangkok

Chaos on Pattaya Beach: Alcohol-Fueled Brawls Raise Safety Concerns Pattaya Beach, famed for its nightlife, is facing rising alcohol-fueled brawls among tourists, raising concerns for public safety and the city’s reputation. Clashes, often near bars and clubs, have led to frequent police interventions and disrupted the peace for locals and visitors. To address the issue, authorities have increased patrols, enforced stricter alcohol regulations, and proposed designated drinking zones. A recent incident involved a Thai man attacking a Swiss tourist during a heated pool game dispute. Officials urge tourists to "party hard, but respect harder" to preserve the city’s allure and safety.

Polish Tourist Arrested for Spanking Incident in Bangkok A Polish man in Bangkok was arrested for spanking a Thai woman in a convenience store, claiming he didn’t know his actions were illegal. The incident occurred on January 12 when the man approached the woman and spanked her forcefully, leaving her embarrassed and prompting her to file a police complaint. Despite being summoned, he dismissed the accusations, citing similar actions in nightclubs without issue. Police arrested him on January 14, charging him under Section 278 for sexual assault, which carries penalties of up to 10 years in prison or a 200,000 baht fine. The victim seeks an apology and prevention of future incidents.

British Explorer Discovers Abandoned Animals at Phuket Zoo British explorer and YouTuber Sean King uncovered a shocking truth during a visit to Phuket Zoo, abandoned since 2021. While reports claimed its animals had been rescued, King’s footage revealed 12 crocodiles, a tiger, and deer still on the premises. The discovery, alongside evidence of feeding, reignited concerns over the zoo's notorious history of alleged animal mistreatment, once dubbed "hell on Earth for animals" by PETA. King’s findings, described as “heartbreaking,” have sparked renewed calls for action to ensure the animals' welfare.

The transcription below highlights news stories from Thailand and across Asia, as featured in the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex. The coverage spans topics from Chaos on Pattaya Beach: Alcohol-Fueled Brawls Raise Safety Concerns to Indonesia Cuts Interest Rates to Spur Growth. 1. Chaos on Pattaya Beach: Alcohol-Fueled Brawls Raise Safety Concerns Pattaya Beach’s nightlife has been marred by rising alcohol-fueled brawls, leading to increased police intervention and public safety concerns. Authorities are implementing stricter alcohol regulations and patrols to preserve the city's reputation. 2. British Man Arrested for Defrauding Wife A British man was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport for allegedly defrauding his Thai wife of 20 million baht through forged documents. He denies the charges and faces legal proceedings. 3. Abandoned Animals Found at Phuket Zoo British YouTuber Sean King exposed abandoned animals at Phuket Zoo, sparking outrage over ongoing mistreatment. The zoo faces renewed calls for urgent action. 4. Bangkok Targets Polluting Buses to Reduce Smog Bangkok is cracking down on air-polluting buses, inspecting BMTA vehicles and expediting the shift to electric alternatives to combat PM2.5 levels. 5. Polish Tourist Arrested for Spanking Incident A Polish man was charged with sexual assault in Bangkok after spanking a Thai woman in a store. He claims ignorance of the law but faces serious penalties. 6. Bangkok Tops Agoda’s Chinese New Year Travel List Bangkok leads Agoda’s travel rankings, with a surge in Chinese New Year accommodation searches. Emerging destinations like Khon Kaen saw record-breaking interest. 7. Indonesia Cuts Interest Rates to Spur Growth Bank Indonesia reduced its benchmark interest rate to 5.75% to boost economic growth despite concerns over the rupiah’s stability. 8. Vietnam May Approve Chinese Aircraft Vietnam is reviewing regulations to permit Chinese COMAC planes, signaling potential collaboration with VietJet for domestic trials. 9. Japan Warns of High Megaquake Risk Japan raised the probability of a Nankai Trough megaquake to 75-82% within 30 years, warning of catastrophic tsunamis and widespread displacement. 10. India Achieves Space Docking Milestone India joined an elite group of nations with its first unmanned space docking, advancing plans for future moon missions and space station development.

Woman’s Public Cannabis Vaping on Bangkok BTS Sparks Outrage A viral video shows a woman allegedly vaping cannabis on a Bangkok BTS train, sparking outrage and calls for stricter enforcement of public behavior. The incident, captured on January 12, shows her vaping amidst children and elderly passengers, with the cannabis smell alarming others. The incident was reported to BTS staff at Chong Nonsi Station, prompting demands for action to maintain safe and respectful public transport. Social media criticism highlights concerns about vaping and cannabis use in shared spaces, reigniting debates on Thailand's cannabis and vaping regulations and the need for public education on appropriate behavior.

Thai Casinos Could Risk Becoming Money Laundering Havens Thailand's plans to open casinos and entertainment complexes face scrutiny over potential misuse for money laundering by 'grey' Chinese businesses. MP Rangsiman Rome raised concerns about illicit funds from scams, online gambling, and drug operations entering Thailand's gaming industry due to weak regulations. While the government aims to boost tourism and revenue, experts warn that without robust financial monitoring and international collaboration, casinos could become hubs for illegal activities. Competing with established gaming centers like Macau, Singapore, and Japan, Thailand must balance economic benefits with transparency and rigorous oversight to avoid reputational and financial risks.

Thailand Aims to Add Nuclear Power by 2037 Thailand plans to integrate nuclear power by 2037 through small modular reactors (SMRs) as part of its Power Development Plan (PDP). SMRs, generating up to 300 megawatts each, are favored for their compact size, flexibility, and safety. The PDP, delayed by legal and technological challenges, aims to boost renewable energy to 51% of Thailand's energy mix by 2037, reducing coal and gas reliance from 80% in 2024 to 48%. Nuclear power will contribute 1%, with two SMRs planned for late implementation. Critics question the feasibility of renewable targets and financial impacts as Thailand pursues sustainable energy goals.

Foreigner Flees Scene of Pattaya Motorcycle Hit-and-Run A hit-and-run in East Pattaya has left a Laotian housekeeper critically injured after a collision involving two motorcycles. The Yamaha Grand Filano suffered heavy damage, while an abandoned Honda Forza, linked to a foreign national, was found nearby. A 24-year-old woman, Narisara Laoporn, was at the scene, intoxicated and with minor injuries, claiming she was a passenger on the Honda Forza and that the foreign rider fled after the crash. Witnesses confirmed the foreigner was driving. Police are investigating and plan to summon Narisara for further questioning as outrage grows in the community.

Thailand’s New Tax Rules Raise Concerns for Expats A meeting of the Pattaya City Expat Club discussed Thailand's new tax policies on overseas income transfers, sparking debate among expats. Tax attorney Patcha Inkudanonda clarified exemptions, including those staying less than 180 days in 2024, LTR Visa holders, and income earned before 2024. Expats transferring money from abroad must file taxes by March 2025, though declaring income doesn’t always mean paying tax. Surprises included foreign credit card use in Thailand being taxable if converted to baht. Experts urged expats to review double taxation treaties, as terms vary. Concerns about enforcement highlighted Thailand’s participation in international banking transparency agreements. Expats were advised to keep detailed financial records.

Pervert’s Underwear Theft Escalates to Ceiling Incident Residents in Nakhon Si Thammarat are outraged over a man with voyeuristic tendencies who has been stealing women’s underwear and spying on them, including a recent incident where he fell through a ceiling while watching a woman shower. Despite being arrested, his mother secured his release and claimed his innocence, even taunting police. The man’s actions have caused significant distress in the community, leading victims to report him and share evidence publicly as a warning. Some residents are taking preventative measures, such as removing trees near their homes, to avoid further incidents.

The transcription below features a variety of news stories from across Thailand and other Asian countries, as presented on the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex. The stories cover topics ranging from Thailand’s new tax rules raising concerns for expats to Trump’s comments on Greenland sparking a Chinese debate on Taiwan. 1. Tax Rules for Expats Raise Concerns Thailand’s new tax rules on overseas income transfers spark debates among expats. Experts highlight key exemptions and advise on double taxation treaties and record-keeping. 2. Foreigner Flees Pattaya Hit-and-Run A Laotian housekeeper is critically injured in a Pattaya hit-and-run. Police link the case to a foreign motorcyclist who fled, leaving a passenger behind. 3. Cannabis Vaping Sparks Outrage on BTS A viral video of a woman vaping cannabis on a Bangkok BTS train has triggered public backlash, reigniting calls for stricter regulations. 4. Underwear Thief Falls Through Ceiling A voyeur in Nakhon Si Thammarat, notorious for stealing women’s underwear, caused outrage after falling through a ceiling while spying on a woman. 5. Thai Casinos Raise Money Laundering Concerns Plans for Thai casinos face scrutiny as experts warn of risks from illicit funds without stronger financial oversight and regulations. 6. Thailand Eyes Nuclear Power by 2037 Thailand plans to add small modular reactors to its energy mix by 2037, aiming to boost renewables while cutting reliance on coal and gas. 7. Cambodian Tycoon Arrested in Russia Dissident tycoon Heng Sithy was arrested in Russia over corruption claims. His criticism of Cambodian governance adds controversy to the case. 8. Malaysia Prepares for EU Anti-Deforestation Law Malaysia braces for the EU's anti-deforestation law, requiring proof of sustainable practices in palm oil production by 2025. 9. TikTok Users Shift to RedNote Amid U.S. Ban Threat Over 700,000 U.S. users join the Chinese app RedNote due to TikTok ban concerns, sparking cultural exchanges and debates on censorship. 10. South Korea Detains Impeached President Yoon South Korea’s President Yoon is detained over a controversial martial law declaration, facing rebellion charges amid ongoing protests. 11. Trump’s Greenland Comments Spark Taiwan Debate Trump’s rhetoric on Greenland stirs Chinese discussions on Taiwan, highlighting differing views on U.S.-China strategic dynamics.

Baht bus brawl erupts in Phuket over fare dispute A fight broke out in Phuket between a baht bus driver and a foreign tourist after the latter allegedly refused to pay the agreed 400-baht fare, offering only 200 baht instead. The altercation, captured on video, shows the driver punching the tourist, who retaliates by throwing and kicking the driver. Hotel security intervened to stop the fight. Opinions online are divided, with some saying the tourist should have honored the agreed fare. Details about the journey’s distance and any potential legal action remain unclear.

Thailand revamps LTR visa to attract global talent Thailand has eased visa restrictions to boost long-term residency for wealthy foreigners and digital nomads. Changes to the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa include lowering income requirements for remote workers’ employers from US$150 million to US$50 million over three years and removing the strict US$80,000 annual income rule. The Cabinet also eliminated the four-dependent cap for visa holders and simplified the visa system by revoking most Smart visa types, except for startup business owners. These adjustments aim to position Thailand as a global hub for talent and investment, making residency more accessible for diverse applicants.

Hong Kong singer tour cancellations disrupt Thailand’s New Year tourism Thailand’s tourism sector faces a blow as Chinese tour groups cancel bookings for the Chinese New Year holiday, citing safety concerns linked to recent job scam incidents in Southeast Asia. Hong Kong singer, Eason Chan, recently cancelled his concert in Thailand, citing these very concerns. Key tourist hubs, including Bangkok, report significant cancellations, particularly impacting hotels and charter flights like those of Thai Lion Air. While individual travel bookings remain stable, tour groups have the flexibility to cancel, amplifying the financial strain on airlines and hotels. Authorities are enhancing safety measures, but confidence restoration remains critical.

Swansea gran’s naked Bangkok escapade warns of deadly drinks A 61-year-old grandmother, Janet West, from Swansea, endured a harrowing ordeal after allegedly consuming tainted alcohol on Bangkok’s Khao San Road during New Year celebrations. Believing she drank whisky and coke, West woke to find she had wandered her hotel naked for hours, hallucinating wildly. This incident highlights the dangers of improperly distilled spirits in Southeast Asia, where methanol poisoning has tragically claimed lives, including 28-year-old Simone White in Laos. West, now cautious, avoids local spirits and urges others to prioritize safety over free or cheap drinks.

Bangkok struggles as toxic air reaches dangerous PM2.5 levels Bangkok’s air quality has dropped to hazardous levels, with PM2.5 particles averaging 47.6 µg/m³, far exceeding the safe limit of 37.5 µg/m³. The worst-hit districts include Nong Khaem, Khlong Sam Wa, and Thon Buri. Residents are advised to wear masks and avoid outdoor activities, especially those with respiratory issues. Cool weather in the region is expected to ease slightly, with temperatures in Bangkok ranging from 16 to 18°C. Efforts to combat pollution include a work-from-home initiative and clean air shelters in schools. Despite these measures, Bangkok's pollution crisis persists, with PM2.5 levels significantly exceeding WHO guidelines.

Turkish tourist tied up and robbed in Pattaya; insider involvement suspected A 36-year-old Turkish tourist, Masis Erkol, was tied up with handcuffs and cable ties and robbed at a Pattaya condominium on January 14. Assailants stole a laptop and a significant amount of cryptocurrency before fleeing. Condo security discovered the victim in distress after he sought help while still bound. Police suspect the attackers were familiar with the victim or the high-security condo. Security footage and other evidence are under investigation as authorities work to identify and apprehend the suspects.

The transcription below features a variety of news stories from across Thailand and Asia, as presented on the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. These stories cover topics ranging from Bangkok’s hazardous air quality levels to Singapore’s innovative use of AI in eldercare. 1. Swansea Gran Warns of Tainted Bangkok Drinks A 61-year-old Swansea grandmother, Janet West, warns travelers about methanol-laced drinks after a harrowing incident on Khao San Road. She hallucinated and wandered naked after drinking suspected tainted whisky. 2. Bangkok’s Air Quality Hits Hazardous Levels Bangkok’s PM2.5 pollution averages 47.6 µg/m³, exceeding safe limits. Residents are urged to wear masks and avoid outdoor activities as cool weather offers slight relief. 3. Tour Cancellations Impact Thailand’s New Year Tourism Thailand’s tourism takes a hit as Chinese New Year tour group bookings drop due to safety concerns. Concert cancellations amplify the strain. 4. Turkish Tourist Robbed in Pattaya Condo A Turkish tourist was tied up and robbed at a Pattaya condo. Police suspect insider involvement as they analyze CCTV to track the culprits. 5. Baht Bus Brawl Erupts in Phuket A baht bus driver and a tourist clashed over a fare dispute in Phuket, sparking a physical fight caught on video. Opinions remain divided online. 6. Thailand Revamps LTR Visa to Attract Talent Thailand eases LTR visa rules, reducing income requirements and simplifying processes to attract global talent and digital nomads. 7. Indonesia Plans Social Media Age Restrictions Indonesia plans to set a minimum social media age limit to protect children online, reflecting global efforts for digital safety. 8. Impeached South Korean President Yoon Arrested South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested for insurrection after declaring martial law. His impeachment fate awaits the Constitutional Court. 9. Vietnam and Russia Sign Nuclear Energy Pact Vietnam and Russia revive nuclear energy ties amid industrial growth needs, despite Western sanctions on Rosatom. 10. Singapore Turns to AI for Eldercare Singapore uses AI tools like humanoid robots to aid its aging population and address a nurse shortage, balancing innovation with privacy concerns.

Thailand Approves Casino Legalisation to Boost Tourism and Economy Thailand's Cabinet has approved a draft bill to legalise casinos and gambling, aiming to enhance tourism, create jobs, and attract investment. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the decision on January 13, marking a significant shift for the country, where most gambling is currently illegal. The plan includes integrating casinos into large entertainment complexes, capitalising on a market that neighbouring countries like Singapore and Cambodia already exploit. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat projects a 5%-10% rise in foreign visitors, boosting tourism revenue by 120-220 billion baht and creating up to 15,000 jobs. While prior efforts faced resistance in the predominantly Buddhist nation, the government argues this move will generate substantial state revenue and curb illegal gambling. The bill now heads to Parliament for debate.

Chiang Rai Hospital Error Leads to Tragic Death During Dental Surgery A Thai woman, Katesuda Buanark, 33, suffocated during dental surgery at a private hospital in Chiang Rai on December 19. Katesuda, a traditional Thai dancer residing in Singapore, had sought treatment after a motorcycle accident damaged her teeth. During the procedure, a critical error with the oxygen tube left her without oxygen for five minutes, causing her death. The hospital admitted fault and pledged compensation but has not disclosed specifics, leaving the family frustrated. Katesuda was the family’s breadwinner, supporting her husband and nine-year-old daughter. Her husband is gathering documents and plans to attend her funeral and seek justice.

Dramatic Rescue at Sea: Catamaran Sinks Near Phuket Thirty-eight people were rescued after the Emiray 888 catamaran sank near Racha Island on January 13. The vessel, departing from Chalong Pier for a day trip, started taking on water about 1.6 nautical miles off the island's northern coast. All passengers, including tourists and crew, wore life jackets, aiding their survival until rescue teams arrived. Phuket Tourist Police and the Marine Rescue Centre coordinated with tour company speedboats to bring everyone to safety. No injuries were reported, and passengers underwent medical checks upon return. Authorities are investigating potential structural or mechanical failure as the cause.

Foreign Man Pickpocketed at Bangkok Mall Entrance A foreign man was pickpocketed by three suspected thieves, reportedly foreign nationals, near the entrance of EmQuartier shopping mall in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit area on January 13. The theft, captured in a viral video, shows the victim searching his backpack for stolen valuables. Witnesses, including other foreigners, tried to assist, while a Thai man recounted the crime, stating the thieves appeared to be Chinese. The victim planned to file a police report. The incident, reported around 12:30 PM, sparked criticism online, with calls for government action to address rising crime concerns in Thailand. Further updates on the case are pending.