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Thailand Faces Potential Political Crisis: Thailand is bracing for a critical week as four major court cases involving prominent politicians could trigger a political crisis. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin may be dismissed over a constitutional breach, while former PM Thaksin Shinawatra faces charges for insulting royalty. The opposition Move Forward party risks dissolution due to its campaign to reform royal insult laws, and the legality of the Senate selection process is under scrutiny. These cases underscore Thailand's fragile political climate and the potential for economic disruptions.

Phuket Enhances Water Tourism Safety: Phuket’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports launched a lifeguard training initiative from June 14-15 at Nai Yang Beach Resort & Spa and Sirinat National Park to boost water tourism safety. The program, involving lifeguards from both public and private sectors, includes surf safety, resuscitation, AED use, and rip current escape techniques. This initiative, funded by the Office of the Permanent Secretary, aims to improve emergency response and promote Phuket's tourism image, following a tragic incident at Nai Harn Beach.

New KP.2 Covid-19 Strain in Thailand: Thailand's new KP.2 Covid-19 strain is poised to become the dominant variant, spreading faster than the previous JN.1 strain but not causing more severe symptoms. Virologist Yong Poovorawan highlighted the strain's increased transmissibility and ability to evade antibodies, reducing the effectiveness of current vaccines. With rising hospital admissions due to lung infections, Associate Professor Dr. Thira Woratanarat predicted daily infections could exceed 18,000. He urged schools to stay vigilant, stressing the seriousness of the situation based on recent Public Health Ministry data.

The transcription below summarizes the stories covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The news ranged from Thailand facing a potential political crisis to Indonesia threatening to shut down X over adult content. 1. **Thailand Faces Potential Political Crisis**: Thailand is bracing for a critical week as four major court cases involving prominent politicians could trigger a political crisis. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin may be dismissed over a constitutional breach, while former PM Thaksin Shinawatra faces charges for insulting royalty. The opposition Move Forward party risks dissolution due to its campaign to reform royal insult laws, and the legality of the Senate selection process is under scrutiny. These cases underscore Thailand's fragile political climate and the potential for economic disruptions. 2. **Rocket Festival Explosion in Roi Et Province**: A rocket explosion at the annual Rocket Festival in Roi Et Province on June 16, 2024, injured approximately 30 attendees. The incident at Ban Sang Bu Temple occurred during the launch of 370,000 rockets, causing panic and various injuries, including facial wounds, head trauma, and limb injuries. Emergency responders quickly transported the injured to Phon Thong District Hospital for immediate medical care. Authorities are investigating the malfunction to prevent future incidents, while the community rallies to support the affected individuals. 3. **Cannabis Decriminalisation and Psychiatric Patients**: Professor Panthep Puapongphan, Dean of the College of Oriental Medicine at Rangsit University, refuted claims linking the decriminalisation of cannabis to a rise in psychiatric patients. He argued that comparing current psychiatric patient numbers to those during the 2021 lockdown is misleading due to the impact of Covid-19 on hospital visits. The NESDC reported similar psychiatric service numbers in 2023 (2.9 million) to pre-Covid 2019 levels (2.8 million), with a decrease in cases related to methamphetamine and other drugs since cannabis decriminalisation. Prof. Panthep emphasized the need for effective regulation over reclassifying cannabis as illegal. 4. **New KP.2 Covid-19 Strain in Thailand**: Thailand's new KP.2 Covid-19 strain is poised to become the dominant variant, spreading faster than the previous JN.1 strain but not causing more severe symptoms. Virologist Yong Poovorawan highlighted the strain's increased transmissibility and ability to evade antibodies, reducing the effectiveness of current vaccines. With rising hospital admissions due to lung infections, Associate Professor Dr. Thira Woratanarat predicted daily infections could exceed 18,000. He urged schools to stay vigilant, stressing the seriousness of the situation based on recent Public Health Ministry data. 5. **Phuket Enhances Water Tourism Safety**: Phuket’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports launched a lifeguard training initiative from June 14-15 at Nai Yang Beach Resort & Spa and Sirinat National Park to boost water tourism safety. The program, involving lifeguards from both public and private sectors, includes surf safety, resuscitation, AED use, and rip current escape techniques. This initiative, funded by the Office of the Permanent Secretary, aims to improve emergency response and promote Phuket's tourism image, following a tragic incident at Nai Harn Beach. 6. **Thailand Nears Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage**: Thailand is on the verge of passing the Marriage Equality Bill, potentially making it the first Southeast Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage. The bill, if approved by the Senate this month, will ensure same-sex couples have the same rights as heterosexual couples. Having faced numerous challenges since 2001, the consolidated bill was passed by the House in March and will be voted on by the Senate on June 18. If approved, it will take effect 120 days after publication in the Royal Gazette, granting equal marriage rights and benefits to same-sex couples. 7. **Oil Spill Closes Singapore's Sentosa Beaches**: On June 15, beaches on Singapore's Sentosa Island were closed due to an oil spill from a nearby shipping terminal. The spill occurred when a Netherlands-flagged dredger struck a stationary Singapore-flagged bunker vessel at Pasir Panjang Terminal. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore reported that the spill was contained, but oil patches were found on Tanjong, Palawan, and Siloso beaches. Cleanup efforts are underway with 16 response crafts deployed. Swimming and sea activities are prohibited, though navigational traffic and berthing operations at the terminal remain unaffected. 8. **US Military's Covert Anti-China Vaccine Campaign**: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. military launched a covert campaign to undermine China's influence in the Philippines by discrediting China's Sinovac vaccine. This operation, revealed by a Reuters investigation, involved creating fake social media accounts to spread anti-vaccine sentiment and question the safety of Chinese medical supplies. Despite the aim to counter China's narrative, health experts criticized the campaign for risking public health and undermining trust in vaccines. The campaign ran from 2020 until mid-2021 and expanded to other regions before being halted by the Biden administration. 9. **Indonesia Threatens to Shut Down X Over Adult Content**: Indonesia's Communications Minister, Budi Arie Setiadi, has threatened to shut down the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) if it does not comply with regulations barring adult content. This follows X's recent policy update permitting consensually produced adult content. Setiadi cited Indonesia's electronic information and transaction (ITE) law, which carries a six-year jail sentence for spreading pornographic content. He confirmed that a warning letter had been sent to X and that more letters would follow before a potential closure. Indonesia, a large social media market with 24.85 million X users, enforces strict anti-obscenity rules.

Rocket Festival Explosion in Roi Et Province: A rocket explosion at the annual Rocket Festival in Roi Et Province on June 16, 2024, injured approximately 30 attendees. The incident at Ban Sang Bu Temple occurred during the launch of 370,000 rockets, causing panic and various injuries, including facial wounds, head trauma, and limb injuries. Emergency responders quickly transported the injured to Phon Thong District Hospital for immediate medical care. Authorities are investigating the malfunction to prevent future incidents, while the community rallies to support the affected individuals.

Thailand Nears Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage: Thailand is on the verge of passing the Marriage Equality Bill, potentially making it the first Southeast Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage. The bill, if approved by the Senate this month, will ensure same-sex couples have the same rights as heterosexual couples. Having faced numerous challenges since 2001, the consolidated bill was passed by the House in March and will be voted on by the Senate on June 18. If approved, it will take effect 120 days after publication in the Royal Gazette, granting equal marriage rights and benefits to same-sex couples.

Cannabis Decriminalisation and Psychiatric Patients: Professor Panthep Puapongphan, Dean of the College of Oriental Medicine at Rangsit University, refuted claims linking the decriminalisation of cannabis to a rise in psychiatric patients. He argued that comparing current psychiatric patient numbers to those during the 2021 lockdown is misleading due to the impact of Covid-19 on hospital visits. The NESDC reported similar psychiatric service numbers in 2023 (2.9 million) to pre-Covid 2019 levels (2.8 million), with a decrease in cases related to methamphetamine and other drugs since cannabis decriminalisation. Prof. Panthep emphasized the need for effective regulation over reclassifying cannabis as illegal.

"The White Lotus" Filming in Thailand Boosts Tourism As the filming of Season 3 of "The White Lotus" wraps up at luxurious Thai resorts, hotels and tour operators are preparing for a surge in tourism. Previous seasons, filmed in Hawaii and Sicily, led to a spike in visitors to those locations. Anticipating a similar effect, bookings to Thailand have already surged, with resorts like Four Seasons Koh Samui and Anantara Mai Khao seeing increased demand. However, Koh Samui faces challenges with waste management and water shortages. Local leaders are urged to improve infrastructure to handle the expected tourist influx.

EU and Allies Celebrate Pride Month in Bangkok: The European Union delegation, alongside the embassies of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, hosted a reception celebrating Pride Month at the US Chief of Mission’s residence in Bangkok. The event, themed "Pride, Rights, Thrive," attracted over 200 guests, including diplomats, government officials, LGBTQI+ activists, and advocates. US Ambassador Robert Godec, EU Ambassador David Daly, UK Ambassador Mark Gooding, and Australian Chargé d’Affaires Julia Feeney highlighted the importance of LGBTQI+ rights as human rights and praised Thailand’s progress towards equality.

Durian Shop Plans to Sue Customer Over False Fraud Claims: A durian shop plans to sue a customer despite their apology for falsely accusing the shop of fraud in a viral TikTok post. The customer initially claimed they were cheated, prompting widespread attention and damaging the shop's reputation. The shop owner clarified that the incident was a misunderstanding and the full amount of durian had been provided. Although the customer apologized, the shop owner insists on legal action due to the significant harm caused to their reputation.

The provided transcription includes various stories from the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. The program covers news from Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia, featuring topics ranging from Bangkok to Beijing via Laos train route near trial run to cases of Durian fraud. 1. **CCTV Catches Teenagers Vandalizing Cannabis Shop in Sattahip**: A group of teenagers has been caught on CCTV vandalizing the Stoner Area cannabis shop in Sattahip, escalating their attacks over several days. Initially, they threatened the shop with baseball bats, but no damage was done. On June 11, two helmeted men caused significant damage using a machete and a soda bottle. Shop owner Sakda Niamphai and his friends tried to chase them but were scared off by what sounded like gunfire. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the culprits. 2. **Pit Bulls Defuse Road Rage Incident in Thailand**: A road rage incident in Thailand was defused by two pit bull-like dogs, as captured in a viral video. The confrontation began when one truck driver cut off another, leading to an aggressive exchange. As the aggressor approached the second truck, the dogs emerged, barking ferociously and causing him to retreat. The video, widely shared on social media, shows the entire sequence and has been praised for the dogs' timely intervention. 3. **Thai Woman Warns Others After Assault by Bolt Driver**: A Thai woman used TikTok to warn others about her experience with a Bolt ride-hailing driver who assaulted her over a fare dispute. After arriving at her destination, the driver demanded more than the 66 baht fare shown in the app and attacked her when she refused to pay extra. The incident was captured on CCTV and shared on TikTok. The woman was hospitalized and filed a police complaint. The attacker has been apprehended, though his identity remains undisclosed. The incident has sparked outrage online, with many criticizing Bolt for inadequate background checks on drivers. 4. **Durian Shop Plans to Sue Customer Over False Fraud Claims**: A durian shop plans to sue a customer despite their apology for falsely accusing the shop of fraud in a viral TikTok post. The customer initially claimed they were cheated, prompting widespread attention and damaging the shop's reputation. The shop owner clarified that the incident was a misunderstanding and the full amount of durian had been provided. Although the customer apologized, the shop owner insists on legal action due to the significant harm caused to their reputation. 5. **EU and Allies Celebrate Pride Month in Bangkok**: The European Union delegation, alongside the embassies of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, hosted a reception celebrating Pride Month at the US Chief of Mission’s residence in Bangkok. The event, themed "Pride, Rights, Thrive," attracted over 200 guests, including diplomats, government officials, LGBTQI+ activists, and advocates. US Ambassador Robert Godec, EU Ambassador David Daly, UK Ambassador Mark Gooding, and Australian Chargé d’Affaires Julia Feeney highlighted the importance of LGBTQI+ rights as human rights and praised Thailand’s progress towards equality. 6. **"The White Lotus" Filming in Thailand Boosts Tourism**: As the filming of Season 3 of "The White Lotus" wraps up at luxurious Thai resorts, hotels and tour operators are preparing for a surge in tourism. Previous seasons, filmed in Hawaii and Sicily, led to a spike in visitors to those locations. Anticipating a similar effect, bookings to Thailand have already surged, with resorts like Four Seasons Koh Samui and Anantara Mai Khao seeing increased demand. However, Koh Samui faces challenges with waste management and water shortages. Local leaders are urged to improve infrastructure to handle the expected tourist influx. 7. **Australian Man on Trial in Bali for Meth Possession**: An Australian man, Troy Andrew Smith, has gone on trial in Bali for possessing methamphetamine. Smith, arrested on April 30 after police found 3.15 grams of crystal meth in his hotel room, faces up to 12 years in prison. Initially charged with drug trafficking, which carries a possible death penalty, Smith's charge was reduced to drug use after assessments confirmed he was a user, not a dealer. Prosecutors recommended a psychological evaluation and six months of rehabilitation. The trial resumes on June 20. 8. **Thailand Edges Closer to Bangkok-Beijing Train Service**: Thailand is edging closer to launching a train service from Bangkok to Beijing, with a trial run between Bangkok and Vientiane set for July 13-14. Once operational, this new rail link will enhance connectivity between Thailand, Laos, and China. The journey from Bangkok to Beijing, covering approximately 3,218 km, will take almost a full day compared to a five-hour non-stop flight. Improved rail links aim to boost Thailand's economic growth and strengthen trade and tourism ties with China. By 2028, a high-speed rail system will further connect Thailand to China through Laos.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-y8Mx3d5JkU CCTV Catches Teenagers Vandalizing Cannabis Shop in Sattahip: A group of teenagers has been caught on CCTV vandalizing the Stoner Area cannabis shop in Sattahip, escalating their attacks over several days. Initially, they threatened the shop with baseball bats, but no damage was done. On June 11, two helmeted men caused significant damage using a machete and a soda bottle. Shop owner Sakda Niamphai and his friends tried to chase them but were scared off by what sounded like gunfire. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the culprits.

Thai Woman Warns Others After Assault by Bolt Driver: A Thai woman used TikTok to warn others about her experience with a Bolt ride-hailing driver who assaulted her over a fare dispute. After arriving at her destination, the driver demanded more than the 66 baht fare shown in the app and attacked her when she refused to pay extra. The incident was captured on CCTV and shared on TikTok. The woman was hospitalized and filed a police complaint. The attacker has been apprehended, though his identity remains undisclosed. The incident has sparked outrage online, with many criticizing Bolt for inadequate background checks on drivers.

Pit Bulls Defuse Road Rage Incident in Thailand: A road rage incident in Thailand was defused by two pit bull-like dogs, as captured in a viral video. The confrontation began when one truck driver cut off another, leading to an aggressive exchange. As the aggressor approached the second truck, the dogs emerged, barking ferociously and causing him to retreat. The video, widely shared on social media, shows the entire sequence and has been praised for the dogs' timely intervention.

Set of Rare Elephant Twins Born in Thailand: In Thailand, a rare set of elephant twins was born to a 36-year-old Asian elephant named Jamjuree at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal on June 7. The first calf, a 176-pound male, was born, followed by a 132-pound female 18 minutes later, surprising Jamjuree and causing her to attack the second baby. Caregivers intervened, with one mahout injured in the process. Jamjuree has since accepted her calves, who are being given supplemental milk. Elephant twins are extremely rare, making up only about 1% of births. The birth highlights ongoing conservation challenges, with only 8,000 to 11,000 Asian elephants remaining in the wild due to deforestation, poaching, and human encroachment.

Man Gored by Buffalo in Chon Buri Rushed to Hospital: A buffalo caretaker in Chon Buri was critically injured after being gored by a buffalo and left undiscovered in an open field for hours. The attack is believed to have occurred the previous evening. Rescue workers found the man, around 50 years old, with multiple wounds from the buffalo's horns and no identification documents. He was rushed to Chon Buri Hospital for urgent treatment. A local woman, Moo, who regularly saw him tending to the buffaloes at night, discovered him the next morning and called for help. The incident highlights the risks of tending to livestock alone at night and emphasizes the need for better safety measures.

The provided transcription features diverse stories from the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. These stories cover events across Thailand and several Southeast Asian countries, ranging from Chinese men attacking a young Thai waiter to Indonesian police arresting six suspected poachers involved in the killing of 26 endangered rhinos. 1. **Man Admits to Paying Girl to Drink Alcohol Causing Coma**: Jetsada Phongphatthanaporn, 26, admitted to paying a young girl to drink alcohol at an ordination ceremony, causing her to fall into a coma. He faces up to three months in jail and/or a fine of up to 30,000 baht under child protection laws. The girl has regained consciousness. Authorities are raising awareness about alcohol dangers. 2. **Chinese Men Attack Young Thai Waiter, Slashing His Arm**: In Prachinburi Province, a young waiter was attacked by eight Chinese men over a disputed bill. The incident, captured on social media, occurred at a local restaurant where the attackers slashed the waiter's arm. Despite attempts to protect the waiter, one attacker managed to inflict a severe injury. Police are investigating, with the community calling for justice for the young waiter. 3. **Thailand Weather Alert: Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain in 30 Provinces**: The Thai Meteorological Department issued a weather alert for 30 provinces, predicting thunderstorms and heavy rain. Bangkok is expected to see rain in 40% of its area. Residents are advised to be cautious of potential dangers from the rain. 4. **Thai Commando Takes Taxi Driver for a Ride After Fare Fraud Fiasco**: A Thai commando officer, Lance Corporal Phubate Rattanaphong, took a taxi driver to the police after discovering a modified meter. The driver admitted to overcharging, claiming he needed extra money to feed stray animals. He was charged with attempted fraud. 5. **Man Gored by Buffalo in Chon Buri Rushed to Hospital**: A buffalo caretaker in Chon Buri was critically injured after being gored and left in a field for hours. He was found the next morning and rushed to the hospital. The incident highlights the dangers of tending livestock alone at night. 6. **Set of Rare Elephant Twins Born in Thailand**: In Thailand, a rare set of elephant twins was born to a 36-year-old Asian elephant named Jamjuree at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal on June 7. The twins, a male and a female, are receiving supplemental milk. Elephant twins are extremely rare, comprising only 1% of births. 7. **Disturbed Vietnamese Woman Undresses, Roams Naked at Philippines Airport**: At NAIA Terminal 3, a distressed Vietnamese woman, Thuytrang Nguyen, undressed and roamed naked in the departure area. She was offloaded from her flight due to psychological incapacitation but later departed for Hanoi after paying fines. 8. **Indonesian Police Arrest 6 Suspected Poachers Over Killing of 26 Endangered Rhinos**: Indonesian authorities arrested six suspects in a poaching ring targeting Javan rhinoceroses. The group killed at least 26 rhinos for their horns since 2018. Authorities are intensifying efforts to apprehend the remaining members. 9. **Analysis: Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Leaves Malaysia with a 'Ghost' Island**: The Forest City project in Johor, Malaysia, a $100 billion development under China's Belt and Road Initiative, has stalled, becoming a "ghost island." Financial woes and a cooling real estate market left the project 70% incomplete and devalued.

Thailand Weather Alert: Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain in 30 Provinces: The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert for 30 provinces, forecasting thunderstorms and heavy rain. Bangkok is expected to have rain in 40% of its area. A moderate southwest monsoon is affecting the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, causing heavy rain in some northern and eastern regions. Residents are advised to be cautious of potential dangers from accumulated rainfall. Temperatures across various regions will range from 23 to 38 degrees Celsius. The sea will experience waves of 1 to 3 meters, particularly in thunderstorm areas.

Thai Commando Takes Taxi Driver for a Ride After Fare Fraud Fiasco: A Thai commando officer, Lance Corporal Phubate Rattanaphong, took a taxi driver to Huay Kwang Police Station after discovering he was being overcharged with a modified meter. During the ride from Mor Chit Bus Terminal to Soi Pracha Uthit 28, Phubate noticed the fare was unusually high. He confronted the driver, who eventually admitted to manipulating the meter to increase the fare, claiming he needed extra money to feed stray animals. Unconvinced, Phubate had the driver taken to the police station, where he was charged with attempted fraud. The taxi will be investigated for the modified meter by the Land Transport Department.

Man Admits to Paying Girl to Drink Alcohol Causing Coma: A man named Jetsada Phongphatthanaporn has surrendered to authorities after admitting to paying a young girl to drink alcohol at an ordination ceremony, causing her to fall into a coma. Jetsada, 26, confessed to giving money to a 13-year-old boy and girl to drink liquor, claiming they had offered to do so for money. He faces charges under child protection laws, which could result in up to three months in jail and/or a fine of up to 30,000 baht. The girl, who initially collapsed and was hospitalized, has regained consciousness. Local authorities are launching a campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol consumption.

Chinese Men Attack Young Thai Waiter, Slashing His Arm: In Prachinburi Province, a young waiter was attacked by a group of Chinese men, jeopardizing his dreams of becoming a soldier. The incident, captured on social media, occurred at a local restaurant where the attackers slashed the waiter's arm over a disputed bill. Eight Chinese men were involved, with four launching the attack. Despite attempts to protect the waiter, one attacker managed to inflict a severe injury. Police are investigating, with the community calling for justice for the young waiter.

Bangkok Police Arrest Four at Luxury Hotel for Drug Investigation: Bangkok police arrested four individuals, including relatives of a prominent politician, at a luxury hotel for drug possession. The suspects, Naraset Thaises, Gitcha, Valis, and Anchaleeporn, were detained at 11:30 am and are cooperating with the investigation. Police Colonel Uramphon Kunderksamrit reported no signs of distress among the suspects, who will undergo drug testing. Friends of the suspects are monitoring the situation at Makkasan Police Station.

Modern-Day Lazarus: Thai Man Rises from Dead, Runs 3km Home: In Surin, Thailand, 59-year-old Prueang Enmak was revived after being declared dead. He refused further treatment, escaped from the ambulance, and ran over 3 kilometres home. Prueang's wife found him unconscious after drinking beer and showering. Despite previous near-death experiences, Prueang insisted on going home, wielding a wooden stick to keep medics away, later expressing his sole focus was to return home.

Nearly 30% of Thailand’s Beggars are Foreigners: Thailand's Social Development and Human Security Minister, Varawut Silpa-archa, revealed that nearly 30% of the country's beggars are foreigners, particularly around Bangkok's major shopping malls. From 2014 to 2024, around 8,000 beggars have been arrested. Foreign beggars are deported, while Thai beggars receive career training. Varawut urged the public to stop giving money to beggars, as minimal fines make begging lucrative. Authorities conduct regular street checks to address the issue.

The description provides an overview of the Good Morning Thailand programme, hosted by Alex. The programme covers news stories from across Thailand and some Southeast Asia countries. Ranging from Thai fugitive arrested in Bali to Putin set to visit North Korea and Vietnam 1. **Thai Fugitive Arrested in Bali After 17-Hour Speedboat Escape**: Thai fugitive Chaowalit Thongduang, wanted for murders and drug trafficking, was captured in Bali. He used a fake Indonesian ID and fled via a 17-hour speedboat trip. Indonesian police seized fake documents and cellphones. He will be extradited to Thailand to face charges, including attempted murder of police officers. The operation cost around 10 million baht ($271,816). 2. **Fire at Chatuchak Market Destroys 118 Shops, Kills 1,000 Animals**: A fire at Chatuchak Market's pet section destroyed 118 shops and killed about 1,000 animals early this morning. The blaze, likely caused by an electrical short circuit, started around 4:30 am. Despite a rapid response, the fire spread quickly. No human casualties were reported. Authorities are investigating to prevent future incidents. 3. **Gun-Brandishing Driver Threatens Couple in Phuket Road Rage Incident**: In Phuket, a pickup driver brandished a gun at a truck driver and his wife during a road rage incident on Chao Fa West Road. The couple escaped, and police are examining CCTV footage to identify the suspect, raising concerns about road safety. 4. **Bangkok Police Arrest Four at Luxury Hotel for Drug Investigation**: Bangkok police arrested four people, including relatives of a politician, at a luxury hotel for drug possession. The suspects, detained at 11:30 am, are cooperating with the investigation and will undergo drug testing. Friends are monitoring the situation at Makkasan Police Station. 5. **Nearly 30% of Thailand’s Beggars are Foreigners**: Minister Varawut Silpa-archa revealed nearly 30% of Thailand's beggars are foreigners, especially in Bangkok's shopping areas. From 2014 to 2024, about 8,000 beggars were arrested. Foreign beggars are deported, while Thai beggars receive career training. Varawut urged the public to stop giving money to beggars, as minimal fines make begging lucrative. Authorities conduct regular street checks to address the issue. 6. **Thai Man Revived from Death, Runs 3km Home**: In Surin, 59-year-old Prueang Enmak was revived after being declared dead. He escaped from an ambulance and ran over 3 kilometres home. This is not his first near-death experience. Prueang insisted on going home despite medical efforts to treat him. 7. **Malaysia Hauls 300 Tonnes of Trash from Rivers Near Singapore**: Malaysia collected 300 tonnes of trash, mainly plastic, from rivers in Johor Bahru last year. The Johor Bersih@Sungai program aims to clean rivers and raise environmental awareness. The efforts improved water quality in five rivers, reducing the number of polluted rivers from 14 to nine. 8. **Singapore Airlines Compensates Passengers Injured by Severe Turbulence**: Singapore Airlines is compensating passengers injured in severe turbulence on flight SQ321 from London to Singapore on May 20. Minor injuries receive $10,000, and serious injuries $25,000. All passengers will be refunded their tickets. The turbulence, over Myanmar’s Irrawaddy Basin, caused one death and several injuries. 9. **Putin Set to Visit North Korea and Vietnam**: Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit North Korea and Vietnam soon. The Vietnam visit is tentatively set for June 19-20. Key issues include energy and military cooperation. This follows North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia last September, amid strengthened Russia-North Korea ties during the Ukraine conflict.