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Phuket Cracks Down on Illegal Foreign-Owned Businesses Phuket Immigration has arrested 11 foreigners in a crackdown on illegal nominee businesses, targeting 15 suspected enterprises. Led by Police Colonel Kriangkrai Ariyaying, the operation exposed foreign nationals using Thai nominees to run prohibited businesses. Four Chinese nationals were detained for visa overstays, illegal entry, and operating restricted businesses—one overstayed by 1,317 days. Seven Myanmar nationals were arrested for working without valid permits. Authorities, following orders from top police officials, are tightening controls to prevent foreign-owned nominee businesses from undermining Thai enterprises and urge the public to report suspicious activities.

Thailand Faces Global Backlash for Secret Uyghur Deportation Thailand secretly deported 40 Uyghur detainees to China after holding them for nearly 11 years, sparking global outrage. The transfer, conducted on February 27 under strict secrecy, saw the detainees flown to Xinjiang, where human rights groups fear they face torture or imprisonment. Critics, including Human Rights Watch, condemned the move as a betrayal of international protections against forced repatriation. The decision strains Thailand’s global standing, with concerns over diplomatic fallout, especially with the U.S. and Turkey. It also raises questions about Thailand’s refugee policies, as the detainees lacked access to proper asylum screening.

https://youtube.com/shorts/-erpGAfIAPM?feature=share Thailand Park Ranger Calls Out Italian Tourists for Damaging Coral Reefs A Thai park ranger, Sai, called out two Italian tourists for snorkeling in a restricted coral reef area despite warnings. He posted a video on social media, frustrated by their disregard for Thai laws, questioning if money makes foreigners feel above the rules. The tourists ignored officials' orders and had to be pulled onto a boat. One angrily shouted, "Last time in f*cking Thailand!" before being taken to shore. Sai criticized their entitlement and blamed Thailand’s free-visa policy for enabling such behavior. It’s unclear if they were fined, but some online commenters urged legal action against their travel agency.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Asia, as covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. Topics range from Italian tourists criticized for damaging Thai coral reefs to South Korea's first birthrate increase in nine years. Italian Tourists Criticised for Damaging Thai Coral Reefs A Thai park ranger called out two Italian tourists for snorkelling in a restricted coral reef area despite warnings. The tourists ignored officials and had to be pulled onto a boat. One angrily declared, "Last time in f*cking Thailand!" The ranger blamed the country’s free-visa policy for enabling such behaviour. It remains unclear if they were fined. Thailand Faces Global Outrage Over Uyghur Deportation Thailand secretly deported 40 Uyghur detainees to China after holding them for nearly 11 years, sparking global criticism. Human rights groups fear they face torture in Xinjiang. The move strains Thailand’s diplomatic ties, especially with the U.S. and Turkey, raising concerns about its refugee policies. Phuket Cracks Down on Illegal Foreign Businesses Phuket Immigration arrested 11 foreigners in a crackdown on illegal nominee businesses. Among them, four Chinese nationals were detained for visa overstays and illegal business operations. Authorities warn against foreign nationals using Thai nominees to run restricted businesses and urge the public to report violations. Foreign Tourists Spark Debate Over Giving Monks a Ride A viral video of foreign tourists giving Buddhist monks a motorcycle ride in Pattaya has stirred debate. While some see it as a cultural exchange, critics argue it disrespects religious customs. The monks’ temple affiliation remains unknown. Thai Man Seeks Foreign Motorcyclist in Phuket Hit-and-Run A Thai man is searching for a foreign motorcyclist who hit his motorcycle in Phuket and fled the scene. CCTV footage captured the foreigner on a grey Yamaha TMAX. Netizens doubt justice will be served, citing past cases where foreign motorists escaped accountability. Two Thai Wives Catch Police Husband in Alleged Affair A Thai police officer was confronted by his two wives after they tracked his location and caught him dining with a younger woman. A viral video shows the wives confronting him, with one sarcastically asking, “Are you very horny?” The officer claimed the woman was just a friend, but netizens remain skeptical. Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen Tests Positive for COVID-19 Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen missed a key legislative session after testing positive for COVID-19. His absence led to the cancellation of meetings, including an audience with the King. This is his second COVID case, the first occurring in 2022. Two Men Publicly Caned for Homosexuality in Indonesia’s Aceh Two college students in Aceh province were publicly caned after being convicted of having gay sex under Shariah law. They received 82 and 77 strokes after remission. Human rights groups condemn the practice, but Indonesia’s central government has no authority to overturn Aceh’s laws. Thousands Freed from Myanmar Scam Centers, Now Stranded Over 7,000 workers freed from Myanmar’s scam compounds remain stranded in makeshift camps due to slow repatriation efforts. Many were tricked into forced online fraud. Thailand recently cut power to the compounds, prompting mass releases, but logistical challenges delayed their return home. South Korea Records First Birthrate Increase in Nine Years South Korea’s birthrate rose slightly in 2024, reaching 0.75 from 0.72 in 2023, driven by post-pandemic marriages and stronger government incentives. New policies include childbirth bonuses and extended parental leave. However, affordability challenges persist, and the country aims to reach a fertility rate of 1.0 by 2030.

https://youtube.com/shorts/-zCtjvoqJW4?feature=share Brave Dogs Kill Snake in Thai Garden Two Jack Russell Terriers in Phetchabun defended their home by killing a large snake that slithered into their garden on February 25. Their owner shared a viral video of the encounter, revealing that the dogs, named 1 and 3, have eliminated over 10 snakes in the past two years. Fortunately, this snake was non-venomous, but the property has seen 13 snake intrusions, all leading to the same fate for the trespassers. Online commenters praised the dogs’ bravery, with many amazed at their hunting instincts.

U-Tapao Airport Expansion Scaled Back Amid High-Speed Rail Delays The expansion of U-Tapao Airport is being significantly reduced as the long-delayed Bangkok-Rayong high-speed rail project remains stalled. Originally designed to accommodate 12 million passengers annually, the revised plan may cut capacity by up to 50%, handling only five million. U-Tapao International Aviation (UTA) chief Keeree Kanjanapas stated that while the Eastern Aviation City project will proceed, it will be on a smaller scale due to uncertainty surrounding government infrastructure plans. The 290-billion-baht project remains in limbo as key transport links face ongoing setbacks.

https://youtube.com/shorts/-Vqk0VgobOs?feature=share Car Repair Shop Owner Survives Truck Accident in Udon Thani A car repair shop owner in Udon Thani narrowly escaped a fatal accident while test-driving a customer’s truck on February 25. CCTV footage captured the moment the high-speed Isuzu pickup overturned multiple times due to slippery roads from light rain. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, extracting the injured man from the wreckage and transporting him to Wang Sam Mo Hospital. The incident highlights the dangers of wet road conditions and excessive speed.

Armed Man Confronts Woman Over Bathroom Noise in Uttaradit A woman in Uttaradit was left terrified after a gun-wielding man angrily banged on her door, accusing her of making too much noise while cleaning her bathroom. The shocking February 24 incident was caught on CCTV, showing the shirtless man holding a firearm and muttering profanities before storming upstairs. The woman, who had been cleaning for less than 10 minutes, was shaken and fears for her safety. The dormitory owner advised her to report the incident, and police are now investigating. The event has sparked public outrage, with calls for stricter security in residential buildings.

Funeral Turns Chaotic as Man Opens Fire, 1 Injured A funeral in Chanthaburi turned violent when a drunken man, 32-year-old Ekkarin, fired multiple gunshots, injuring 52-year-old Paiboon. The incident occurred on February 24 at Thung Phla Temple, with CCTV capturing the chaos. Police arrested Ekkarin at the scene and seized a .38 revolver, spent cartridges, and additional ammunition. His accomplice, Somchai Mahantawari, who drove him to the funeral, was also charged. Both face attempted murder and firearm-related offenses but have been released on bail. Witnesses say the suspects caused a disturbance before Ekkarin returned to fire into the crowd. Concerned residents are urging stricter police action to ensure public safety.

Fed-Up Bangkok Locals Demand Action on Rowdy Foreign Renters Residents of a Bangkok condo are frustrated with noisy foreign renters disrupting their peaceful home. Complaints about loud parties, cannabis use, and pool rule violations have circulated online, with security concerns mounting as key cards—easily accessible near the garage—undermine safety measures. Despite a face scanner being installed, unauthorized short-term rentals persist. Residents have repeatedly sought help from authorities, but little action has been taken. They now demand stricter government regulations to curb the issue, as the disturbances continue unchecked.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The reports cover a range of topics, from frustrated Bangkok residents demanding action against disruptive foreign renters to Apple reaching a deal with Indonesia to lift the iPhone 16 ban. 1. Bangkok Condo Dispute Residents demand stricter rules as noisy foreign renters disrupt their homes with parties and rule violations. 2. Funeral Shooting in Chanthaburi A man fired multiple gunshots at a funeral, injuring one. Police arrested two suspects. 3. Armed Confrontation in Uttaradit A woman was terrified after a man angrily confronted her with a gun over bathroom noise. 4. Truck Accident in Udon Thani A car repair shop owner survived a high-speed crash while test-driving a customer’s truck. 5. U-Tapao Airport Expansion Cut Plans to expand the airport are scaled back due to high-speed rail project delays. 6. Brave Dogs Kill Snake Two Jack Russell Terriers defended their home by killing a snake in a Phetchabun garden. 7. Cambodia Cracks Down on Online Scams PM Hun Manet leads a task force to combat online scams and human trafficking. 8. Malaysia’s PM Defends Travel Anwar Ibrahim says his frequent trips are crucial for Malaysia’s record-breaking investments. 9. Singapore Developer Feud CDL’s chairman accuses his son, the CEO, of a boardroom coup, sparking legal battles. 10. Apple, Indonesia Deal Apple agrees to a $1 billion investment to lift Indonesia’s iPhone 16 ban.

British Influencer's Buddha Tattoo Sparks Cultural Debate in Thailand Emily Srichala, a British influencer married to a Thai man, sparked a cultural debate after showcasing her Buddha tattoo, created by her Thai husband, on social media. After facing criticism for perceived cultural disrespect, Emily asked Thai citizens for their opinions, emphasizing the tattoo was respectfully placed on her upper arm. A Thai lawyer clarified that the tattoo is legally acceptable, yet the controversy underscores ongoing discussions about cultural sensitivity, religious symbolism, and respect in a globally connected society.

Thailand's Visa Policy Not Causing Crime Spike, Experts Say Thailand's recent policy allowing visa-free entry for tourists from many countries—permitting stays up to 60 days plus a potential 30-day extension—has sparked debate about unintended consequences, including scams, disorderly behaviour, and illegal employment. Critics argue the policy inadvertently encourages criminal activity, suggesting shorter visa-free stays to curb problems. However, experts counter that crime issues existed before this policy, claiming visas aren't the core issue. A new measure starting in April 2025 will require tourists to submit an online entry authorization form prior to travel. Authorities assert these changes represent Thailand's proactive approach to balancing tourism growth with public safety.

Thai School Investigating Nude 'Batman' Teacher Incident A teacher in Thailand is under investigation after social media images surfaced showing him posing nude in various locations at a school, including classrooms. The complaints were brought forward by concerned parents and social media activist Guntouch Pongpaiboonwet, prompting education authorities to launch a formal fact-finding probe. If confirmed that the individual is indeed a teacher, he could face disciplinary action and immediate dismissal. Education officials have pledged swift action to uphold standards and ensure the safety and integrity of schools.

Foreign Tourists Violently Attacked by Security Guard on Bangla Road, Phuket Two foreign tourists were brutally attacked by at least one security guard on Phuket’s popular Bangla Road early today, February 25, sparking an urgent police investigation. The assault occurred around 1:50 AM after the victims left the Nan & Non Tour restaurant, following a visit to Bangla Road's famous nightlife spots. Patong Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses to identify and apprehend the security guard involved. Authorities have urged tourists to stay vigilant, promising increased police presence and stronger measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Phuket Residents Alarmed by Foreigner Walking Naked into Convenience Store A recent incident involving a British man walking completely naked into a convenience store in Phuket's Soi Ta-Iad area has sparked public outrage and heightened concerns about foreigner behaviour in Thailand. The video of the incident, widely circulated on social media, adds to growing frustrations among local residents about inappropriate conduct by foreigners, including drug misuse, violence, and indecent exposure. Authorities are responding by increasing law enforcement and discussing potential reforms to immigration policies to address community concerns and reinforce public order and safety.

British Man Arrested in Chiang Mai for 25-Year Visa Overstay Chiang Mai Immigration recently arrested a British man who overstayed his visa by an astonishing 25 years—exactly 9,135 days—marking one of Thailand's longest visa overstays on record. The man, who entered the country on January 9, 2000, with a 30-day visa exemption, now faces deportation to the UK. Authorities are investigating how he avoided detection for so long and checking for any criminal background in his home country. Chiang Mai Immigration emphasized its ongoing commitment to strict enforcement of immigration laws and public safety.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The topics range from the arrest of a British man in Chiang Mai for a 25-year visa overstay to the launch of a new search for MH370, 11 years after its disappearance. British Man Arrested in Chiang Mai for 25-Year Overstay Thai immigration arrested a British man in Chiang Mai for overstaying his visa by 25 years. He entered on a 30-day exemption in 2000 but never left. Now facing deportation, he remains under investigation for possible criminal activity. Authorities reaffirm their commitment to strict immigration enforcement. Naked Foreigner in Phuket Sparks Public Outrage A British man caused outrage in Phuket after walking naked into a convenience store in Soi Ta-Iad. The viral video fueled concerns over foreigner misconduct, including drug use and violence. Authorities are increasing law enforcement and considering immigration reforms to maintain public order. Tourists Attacked by Security Guard on Bangla Road, Phuket Two foreign tourists were assaulted by a security guard on Phuket’s Bangla Road early on February 25. Patong Police are reviewing CCTV footage and questioning witnesses. Authorities urge tourists to stay cautious, promising stronger security measures. Thai School Probes Nude 'Batman' Teacher Scandal Education officials are investigating a teacher after photos of him posing nude in classrooms surfaced online. Complaints from parents and an activist led to a formal probe. If confirmed, the teacher faces disciplinary action, including dismissal. Experts Dismiss Claims That Thailand’s Visa Policy Fuels Crime Thailand’s visa-free policy, allowing tourists up to 60-day stays, has sparked debate over crime risks. Critics call for shorter stays, but experts argue crime existed before these changes. A new rule in April 2025 will require an online entry form for visitors. British Influencer’s Buddha Tattoo Ignites Cultural Debate British influencer Emily Srichala sparked controversy in Thailand after revealing her Buddha tattoo, inked by her Thai husband. While some called it disrespectful, a Thai lawyer confirmed its legality. The debate highlights ongoing cultural sensitivity issues. Angkor Sankranta Festival Returns for Khmer New Year 2025 Cambodia will revive the Angkor Sankranta Festival in April 2025 to celebrate Khmer New Year. The event will showcase traditional games, performances, and exhibitions at Angkor Wat. Authorities are preparing to boost tourism while ensuring visitor comfort. Thailand Uncovers Illegal Internet Stations Sending Signals to Laos Thai authorities discovered illegal wireless stations in Nong Khai transmitting broadband signals to Laos. Three stations, including one on a hotel rooftop, have been shut down. Investigators are tracking those responsible, warning of legal action for telecom violations. Malaysia Pressures TikTok to Restore Blocked Media Accounts Malaysia is urging TikTok to reinstate 18 media accounts wrongly blocked after reporting a mosque assault case. The communications minister stressed that such reporting should not trigger bans, reigniting concerns over AI moderation and press freedom. New MH370 Search Begins 11 Years After Disappearance Malaysia is backing a new search for flight MH370 in the Indian Ocean, 11 years after its disappearance. Ocean Infinity, which led a 2018 search, has launched a fresh effort. Families of victims express hope as investigators try again to solve aviation’s greatest mystery.

Sisaket Woman Takes Child Hostage Amid Mental Health Crisis A 28-year-old woman in Sisaket’s Mueang district, struggling with psychiatric issues, took her three-year-old daughter hostage and attacked her mother. Police and emergency responders subdued her after a tense 10-minute negotiation and transferred her to a hospital for psychiatric care. The woman, identified as Wannakarn Landa, had previously worked in Bangkok but struggled with substance abuse, which may have worsened her condition. Her mother, 55-year-old Phen Landa, revealed that Wannakarn had stopped taking her medication for months, leading to erratic behavior. Fearing further violence, Phen alerted authorities and has pledged to support her daughter’s long-term treatment.

Phuket Urges Waste Separation as Incinerator Shuts Down Phuket faces a worsening waste crisis as its only public incinerator undergoes a month-long renovation, reducing its capacity from 900 to 300 tonnes per day. The excess trash is being dumped into already overflowing landfills, prompting officials to urge residents to separate waste for safety and efficiency. Authorities are using heavy machinery to manage the overflow, but this is expected to worsen odors in surrounding areas. Adding to concerns, a landfill fire on February 16—likely caused by improperly discarded items—has heightened the risk of future fires amid the hot season. To address the crisis, a 40-million-baht waste separation initiative is underway, and officials are raising public awareness on proper disposal methods.

Future Uncertain for Retiree Bank Accounts in Thailand Opening a Thai bank account is becoming more difficult for expats due to new government regulations aimed at preventing scams and cryptocurrency-related fraud. Starting April 2025, biometric authentication and device-linked accounts will be mandatory, potentially aiding short-term tourists with valid financial reasons but complicating matters for retirees. Alternative options exist, including embassy income verification, Elite and Long-Term Residence visas, and the Destination Thailand Visa, which allows proof of funds through multiple channels. Some expats may also register with the Thai Revenue Department to obtain tax receipts as banking documentation. While the current retiree visa system remains unchanged, increased scrutiny suggests future restrictions may emerge.

Family Rush to Rescue British Man With Mystery Illness in Thailand The family of 72-year-old Raymond Wallace is racing to bring him back to the UK after he was hospitalized in Hua Hin with a severe but unclear illness. Initially diagnosed with pneumonia, his condition worsened to acute respiratory distress syndrome, with conflicting reports suggesting possible kidney issues. With his travel insurance expired, hospital costs have soared to £3,000 (127,500 THB) per day, prompting his family to launch a GoFundMe campaign. His daughter Karrie and her brother are flying to Thailand to gain clarity on his condition, as doctors warn he may need a transfer to a Bangkok hospital. Wallace had originally traveled to Goa to reflect after losing his partner but unexpectedly ended up in Thailand.

Ex-Thai Actress Accuses British Husband of Fraud and Infidelity Former Thai actress Ladda Khantiphok has accused her British husband, Ian, of deceiving her out of £8,000 (320,000 baht) and being unfaithful. The couple met on a dating app in 2019 and married in 2020, but Ian, a cruise ship musician, rarely visited. Financial troubles arose in 2022 when Ian borrowed money, citing delayed wages. Suspicion mounted when he failed to visit for two years, and another woman claimed to be his wife. Now, Ladda demands a divorce and repayment of her savings. Struggling financially, she runs a laundry and sells drinks while seeking legal help.

Bangkok Adopts Beijing’s Air Pollution Solutions in Landmark Deal Bangkok is partnering with Beijing to tackle its worsening air pollution through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on air quality management. Beijing’s pollution control strategies—including strict emissions regulations, industrial restructuring, and large-scale environmental initiatives—have led to a 65.9% drop in PM2.5 levels since 2013. Bangkok aims to replicate this success through knowledge exchange, training, and pilot projects. Governor Chadchart has also launched an initiative to eliminate rice field burning, significantly reducing burned farmland from 5,625 rai in 2022 to just 625 rai in 2024.

The transcription below presents news stories from across Thailand, as featured in Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex. Topics range from Bangkok’s partnership with Beijing to tackle air pollution to Singaporean students experiencing food poisoning from emergency rations. Bangkok Partners with Beijing to Tackle Air Pollution Bangkok has signed an MOU with Beijing to implement air quality management strategies, aiming to reduce PM2.5 levels. Governor Chadchart is also cracking down on rice field burning, cutting burned farmland from 5,625 rai in 2022 to 625 rai in 2024. Phuket Faces Waste Crisis as Incinerator Shuts Down Phuket’s only public incinerator is undergoing a month-long renovation, reducing its capacity from 900 to 300 tonnes daily. Overflowing landfills and a recent landfill fire have raised concerns. Authorities are urging waste separation and launching a 40-million-baht waste management initiative. British Man Hospitalized in Thailand, Family Seeks Help Raymond Wallace, 72, is in critical condition in Hua Hin with an unclear illness. Initially diagnosed with pneumonia, he now suffers from acute respiratory distress syndrome. With his travel insurance expired, his family has launched a GoFundMe to cover £3,000-per-day hospital bills. Woman Takes Child Hostage Amid Mental Health Crisis in Sisaket A 28-year-old woman in Sisaket held her three-year-old daughter hostage and attacked her mother amid a psychiatric episode. Police subdued her after a tense standoff, and she was hospitalized for treatment. Her mother revealed she had stopped taking medication for months. Tighter Banking Rules May Affect Retirees in Thailand New banking regulations in Thailand, effective April 2025, will require biometric authentication and device-linked accounts, complicating matters for retirees. While alternative options exist, including visa programs and tax registration, expats fear future restrictions on financial access. Ex-Thai Actress Accuses British Husband of Fraud Former actress Ladda Khantiphok claims her British husband deceived her out of £8,000 and was unfaithful. Married in 2020, he rarely visited and stopped communicating. Now struggling financially, Ladda is seeking a divorce and legal action for repayment. Malaysia’s Anwar Calls for Unified Muslim Action on Palestine and Syria Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim urged Muslim leaders to move beyond sectarian divisions and provide tangible support for Palestine and Syria. Speaking in Bahrain, he called for diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian efforts to strengthen unity and aid crisis-stricken regions. Indonesia’s Prabowo Urges Judicial Integrity Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has called on judges to uphold justice with integrity. Speaking at the Supreme Court’s annual session, he stressed the judiciary’s role in combating corruption and ensuring fairness for future generations. Tensions Ease After Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute A brief military altercation at the Prasat Ta Moan Thom temple has de-escalated after Thailand protested Cambodia’s actions. Authorities from both countries have reassured that the situation is now stable, though experts warn of potential nationalist exploitation. Singaporean Students Suffer Food Poisoning from Emergency Rations Around 20 Singaporean students fell ill after consuming ready-to-eat meals during a national crisis drill. The chicken bolognese pasta is suspected as the cause. Authorities have launched an investigation, urging students to return unconsumed meals.