Video News

Bars Across Thailand to Close for Buddhist Holiday Bars across Thailand will close on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, for Makha Bucha Day, a major Buddhist holiday. The day marks Buddha’s teachings on moral conduct and is observed with temple visits, meditation, and alcohol abstinence Thai law prohibits alcohol sales on religious holidays, meaning bars and convenience stores cannot sell alcohol for 24 hours, from midnight to midnight. Violators risk heavy fines and potential jail time.

Russian Airline Flight Makes Emergency Landing at BKK After Circling for 3 Hours A Russian Aeroflot flight from Phuket to Moscow made an emergency landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport after circling the Andaman Sea for over three hours due to a front landing gear issue. The Boeing 777-300 (ER) couldn’t retract its front gear after takeoff, prompting the diversion to Bangkok for better emergency support. As a precaution, the plane burned fuel before landing. Emergency teams ensured a safe touchdown at 21:10, with no injuries reported. Thai Airways is assisting over 300 passengers with onward travel to Moscow.

The following transcription features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. The stories range from a Russian flight making an emergency landing in Bangkok to the heartwarming rescue of a baby elephant in Cambodia. Russian Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Bangkok A Russian Aeroflot flight from Phuket to Moscow made an emergency landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport after failing to retract its front landing gear. The Boeing 777-300 (ER) circled the Andaman Sea for over three hours to burn fuel before landing safely. Emergency teams ensured all 300+ passengers were unharmed, with Thai Airways assisting their onward travel. Pattaya Residents Call for Action After Stray Dog Attack Pattaya locals are demanding intervention after a 10-year-old girl suffered a severe leg wound from a stray dog attack during Burapha Bike Week. Despite repeated incidents, no authorities have taken responsibility. Residents say stray dogs are regularly fed but not adopted, leading to growing concerns about public safety. Bars to Close Across Thailand for Makha Bucha Day Bars and alcohol retailers across Thailand will shut down on February 12, 2025, in observance of Makha Bucha Day. The Buddhist holiday, marking Buddha’s teachings, includes temple visits and alcohol abstinence. Selling alcohol during religious holidays is illegal, with violators facing fines or jail time. Bystanders Rescue Motorcyclist in Phuket, But Victim Dies Nearly 20 bystanders worked together to overturn a car and free an elderly motorcyclist trapped underneath in Phuket. Despite their efforts, he later died in the hospital. A viral video of the rescue drew praise for the community’s heroism, though legal action against the sedan driver has yet to be reported. Three-Legged Dog Saves Owner from Cobra Attack A three-legged dog named Sato is being hailed as a hero after bravely fighting off a cobra inside his owner's home. The snake sprayed venom near Sato’s eyes, but he and his owner managed to kill it. The viral video of the dog’s bravery sparked admiration—and even a lottery frenzy over his house number. Thai Girl Reunites with Swiss Man Who Saved Her Life A 15-year-old Thai girl reunited with the Swiss man who rescued her after a motorcycle accident in Buriram. Though she lost her left eye, she remains grateful to her rescuer, Tom, who provided first aid. Meanwhile, frustration lingers as the driver responsible has only paid 1,000 baht in compensation. Setia Alam Shooting Suspect Took Family Hostage A suspect in a Setia Alam mall shooting forced a family at gunpoint to drive him away, holding them hostage for 45 minutes. He later fled after taking their dashcam memory card. Police have identified him as a repeat offender with 11 prior cases and are actively pursuing his capture. U.S. Marine Identified in Deadly Philippines Plane Crash Sgt. Jacob M. Durham, a U.S. Marine from California, was among four people killed in a military-contracted plane crash in the Philippines. The aircraft was conducting an intelligence mission when it went down. Authorities are investigating the cause, while tributes pour in for the fallen serviceman. Indonesia Launches $183M Free Health Screening Program Indonesia has introduced a $183 million annual free health screening initiative, allowing citizens to get medical checkups on their birthdays. The program, aiming to screen 100 million people this year, focuses on preventive care. Experts warn, however, that limited healthcare resources may strain local facilities. Rescued Baby Elephant Captivates Cambodia A baby elephant named Lomphat is thriving after being rescued from a snare injury in Cambodia. Gaining 34 kg in two months, she is receiving expert care at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre. Her recovery has drawn widespread public support, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation.

Thai Hostages Return Home After Release by Hamas Five Thai hostages released by Hamas returned home on February 9, arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport to emotional reunions with their families. Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sengiamphong praised the collaborative efforts that led to their safe return. While the hostages are physically healthy, concerns remain about their mental well-being after 15 months in captivity. The labour ministry will ensure their entitlements, and officials continue working to secure the release of the last remaining Thai hostage. Talks with Israel also aim to improve opportunities for Thai workers in the country.

Ugandan Woman Fakes Seizure to Evade Immigration Check in Pattaya A 39-year-old Ugandan woman, Irene Nakyanzi, faked a seizure on Pattaya Beach to evade an immigration check on February 7. Stopped during a routine inspection following online criticism of unruly tourist behavior, she attempted to flee but was caught by officers. Authorities found she had overstayed her visa by 603 days since June 2023. After receiving medical attention, she was taken into custody and will face legal proceedings before deportation. The incident highlights Thailand’s strict immigration enforcement amid concerns over tourist misconduct.

Former Russian Beauty Queen Detained in Thai Immigration Center Former Russian beauty queen Alexandra Tikhomirova, 23, has been detained in Thailand for overstaying her visa by 10 days. Held in harsh conditions in Pattaya, she may be transferred to Bangkok’s overcrowded Immigration Detention Centre (IDC), known for its poor conditions. Human rights advocates are alarmed as her family denies allegations of past legal troubles or escort work. Her case highlights Thailand’s strict immigration laws, with foreign nationals facing detention and deportation for overstays. Diplomatic intervention may be her only hope as concerns grow over the treatment of detainees in the Thai system.

LGBTQ Protest in Pathum Thani After Violent Soup Attack Over 500 LGBTQ protesters gathered in Pathum Thani after a university student was attacked with hot soup in a violent incident on February 7. The victim was reportedly forced to cut his hair, threatened, and assaulted while showering, prompting him to flee unclothed. Police arrested the perpetrators, who are also LGBTQ, and charged them with bodily harm. Activist Kan Jompalang condemned the attack, highlighting further reports of extortion and intimidation. Protesters demanded an apology, but the suspects showed no remorse. Authorities assured a thorough investigation, reinforcing their stance against violence.

Phuket Airport Corruption Allegations Under Investigation Phuket’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has not yet launched a formal investigation into four Airports of Thailand (AoT) staff accused of corruption, despite acknowledging misconduct. The case involves an 11.8 million baht contract for royal commemorative stickers, with procurement violations reported. Evidence collection is ongoing, but staff remain in their roles as suspensions require court approval. AoT previously announced internal disciplinary actions but has not disclosed punishments. Concerns arise over delays in providing documents and failure to formally notify the NACC. No timeline has been set for a potential investigation.

British Tourist Beaten by Thai Bar Girls Over Unpaid Bill A British tourist in Pattaya was beaten and thrown out of a bar after refusing to pay his bill, which included a 50% markup on drinks for the women he and his friend were entertaining. Furious bar staff and women attacked him with high heels, slapping and kicking him while demanding payment. Bleeding from a head wound, the man pleaded for mercy, but a bar manager ordered him out, shouting insults. A bystander tried to calm the situation before he was forced to leave. Pattaya, known for its raucous nightlife, has a history of similar incidents.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Asia, as presented on Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex and Jay. The coverage includes a range of reports, from 'Brit Beaten by Thai Bar Girls Over Unpaid Bill' to 'Malaysian Police Hunt for Setia Alam Mall Shooter. Brit Beaten by Thai Bar Girls Over Unpaid Bill A British tourist in Pattaya was attacked and thrown out of a bar after refusing to pay his bill, which included a 50% markup on drinks for the women he and his friend entertained. Bar staff and women assaulted him with high heels, demanding payment. Bleeding from a head wound, he was eventually forced to leave the premises. Phuket Airport Corruption Allegations Under Investigation Phuket’s anti-corruption body is reviewing misconduct allegations against four Airports of Thailand staff over an 11.8 million baht contract for royal commemorative stickers. While internal disciplinary actions have been announced, no formal investigation has been launched yet. LGBTQ Protest in Pathum Thani After Violent Soup Attack Over 500 LGBTQ protesters rallied in Pathum Thani after a student was attacked with hot soup and forced to flee unclothed. The perpetrators, also LGBTQ, were arrested and charged with bodily harm. Activists condemned the attack, citing concerns about extortion and intimidation. Former Russian Beauty Queen Detained in Thai Immigration Center Russian beauty queen Alexandra Tikhomirova, 23, was detained in Pattaya for overstaying her visa by 10 days. She faces possible transfer to Bangkok’s overcrowded Immigration Detention Centre. Human rights advocates have raised concerns over her treatment as diplomatic efforts continue. Ugandan Woman Fakes Seizure to Evade Immigration Check-in Pattaya A 39-year-old Ugandan woman, who had overstayed her visa by 603 days, faked a seizure on Pattaya Beach to avoid an immigration check. She was caught, received medical attention, and now faces deportation. The incident highlights Thailand’s strict immigration enforcement. Thai Hostages Return Home After Release by Hamas Five Thai hostages returned home after being released by Hamas, reuniting with their families at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Officials assured support for their recovery while continuing efforts to secure the release of the last remaining Thai hostage. Malaysian Police Hunt for Setia Alam Mall Shooter Malaysian police are searching for a gunman with 11 prior criminal records who shot a cleaner at Setia City Mall before carjacking a vehicle and fleeing. The injured victim is in stable condition as authorities intensify their manhunt. Military Police Officer Kills 2, Injures 3, Then Takes Own Life A Cambodian military police officer shot and killed his in-laws and wounded three others, including his wife, before taking his own life. The attack, carried out with an AK-47, is under investigation as authorities determine the motive. Three British Nationals Arrested for Cocaine Smuggling in Bali Indonesian authorities arrested three British nationals for smuggling nearly 1 kg of cocaine hidden in food packaging. The suspects were caught at Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport, with one seen laughing at a police press conference despite facing severe drug charges. Kaohsiung Police Detain Suspected Serial Killer Taiwanese police arrested a 73-year-old man suspected of murdering three women, including his sister-in-law. CCTV footage showed him disposing of body parts in a river. DNA evidence linked him to two other missing persons, with police still searching for additional remains.

Foreigner Sparks Outrage for Doing Thai-Only Job in Phuket A viral video of a foreigner working as a masseur in Phuket has sparked outrage, as Thai law reserves such jobs for locals to protect "Thai wisdom" and employment opportunities. Critics argue that allowing foreigners to take these roles threatens Thai traditions, while others note difficulties in hiring Thai workers due to wage demands and work conditions. Last year, 721 cases of foreigners working in prohibited jobs were reported. Violators face fines of up to 50,000 baht and deportation, while employers risk higher penalties, jail time, and a hiring ban.

3-Metre Snake Found Stuck in Samut Songkhram Toilet A 3-metre-long fish-eating snake was found stuck in a toilet at a home in Samut Songkhram, requiring emergency services to break the toilet for removal. Firefighters safely extracted the snake and released it into the wild. The homeowner, unfazed, plans to use their house number (11/1) for the lottery. A firefighter urged residents to flush toilets before use to avoid similar encounters, warning that surprise snake incidents can lead to serious injuries.

Mummified Infant Bodies Found in Chilling Chiang Mai Delivery Police in Sa Kaeo uncovered a horrifying package containing two mummified infant bodies bound for Chiang Mai. The sender, 47-year-old Chai, claimed he was acting for a self-proclaimed black magician named Pol, who admitted to purchasing the bodies for 10,000 baht. Pol allegedly planned to resell them to Chinese tourists for 30,000 baht. Authorities raided Pol’s shop and are now investigating the origins of the corpses and potential human remains trafficking violations. The case has raised concerns over the illegal trade of human remains in Thailand.

American-Thai Couple Loses 15.2M Baht in Hua Hin Property Scam An American man and his Thai wife lost 15.2 million baht in a Hua Hin property scam after a real estate firm sold their purchased land to another buyer. The couple, Patrick Flippin and Vipavanee Kaewmueangklang, paid in instalments, only to later discover the land was sold under a redemption agreement that was never honored. After demanding a refund, they received three cheques—two of which bounced. Now seeking justice, they refuse to claim the house without land ownership. A legal advocate suspects fraud and is pushing authorities to take action.

Thailand’s Airport Smoking Ban Faces Controversy Thailand’s Airports of Thailand (AoT) is facing backlash for proposing the return of smoking rooms at Suvarnabhumi Airport, reversing a seven-year smoke-free policy. Health experts, including Dr. Naowarat Charoenkha, warn that this move could damage Thailand’s global reputation and endanger public health. Studies have shown high levels of PM2.5 pollution in Thai airports before the ban, posing risks to passengers and staff. While global trends push for 100% smoke-free airports, Thailand risks moving in the opposite direction. Advocates urge the government to prioritize health and maintain the country’s smoke-free status.

4 Israeli Men Fined for Causing Chaos at Mae Hong Son Hospital Four Israeli men were fined 3,000 baht each for causing a disturbance at Pai Hospital in Mae Hong Son. They attempted to enter the emergency room without permission while their injured friend was being treated. When denied entry, they became disruptive, forcing security to remove them. Police charged them under Section 397 of Thailand’s Criminal Law. Hospital staff reported repeated disrespect, refusal to follow medical instructions, smoking in the hospital, and evading fees. Locals also expressed frustration over their behavior, alleging illegal work and unlicensed motorcycle use.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia, as covered in Good Morning Thailand with Alex and Jay. Topics range from Israeli tourists fined for hospital chaos to Thailand reclaiming its title as Southeast Asia’s top tourist destination. Israeli Tourists Fined for Hospital Chaos Four Israeli men were fined 3,000 baht each for disrupting Pai Hospital in Mae Hong Son. They attempted to enter the emergency room without permission and caused a scene when denied entry. Hospital staff accused them of repeated misconduct, while locals complained about their illegal work and unlicensed motorbike use. Smoking Ban U-Turn at Thai Airports Sparks Backlash Airports of Thailand (AoT) faces criticism for proposing smoking rooms at Suvarnabhumi Airport, reversing a seven-year ban. Health experts warn it could damage Thailand’s reputation and pose health risks. Advocates urge the government to maintain smoke-free policies. Mummified Infant Bodies Found in Shocking Delivery Police in Sa Kaeo intercepted a package containing two mummified infant bodies bound for Chiang Mai. The sender admitted delivering them for a self-proclaimed black magician, who planned to resell them to Chinese tourists. Authorities are investigating possible human remains trafficking. Hua Hin Property Scam Costs Couple 15.2M Baht An American man and his Thai wife lost 15.2 million baht after a real estate firm resold their purchased land. Two of the three refund cheques bounced, and the couple refuses to accept the house without land ownership. A legal expert suspects fraud and is urging authorities to act. 3-Metre Snake Found Stuck in Toilet A 3-metre fish-eating snake got stuck in a Samut Songkhram toilet, forcing emergency crews to break the fixture for removal. Firefighters safely released the snake into the wild. A firefighter advised residents to flush before use to avoid similar surprises. Foreigner Causes Uproar for Working in Thai-Only Job A viral video of a foreigner working as a masseur in Phuket sparked outrage, as Thai law reserves such jobs for locals. Authorities caught 721 cases of foreigners working in restricted jobs last year. Offenders face fines, deportation, and employers risk severe penalties. British Journalist Blacklisted in Cambodia Cambodia blacklisted British journalist Gerald Flynn over visa issues, but Flynn claims it’s retaliation for exposing environmental corruption. Rights groups warn press freedom is deteriorating under Prime Minister Hun Manet, as journalists face arrests, harassment, and even violence. Malaysia’s Proposed Event Rules Stir Controversy Malaysia’s proposed rules requiring approval for Muslims to attend non-Muslim events have sparked backlash. Critics warn the move threatens national unity, while supporters argue it upholds Islamic values. Politicians and activists have called for the religious affairs minister’s resignation. Indonesia’s President Prabowo Warns Ministers President Prabowo Subianto warned ministers to perform or be replaced. Promising zero tolerance for inefficiency and corruption, he signaled potential cabinet reshuffles to enforce accountability. Thailand Reclaims Southeast Asia’s Top Tourist Spot Thailand welcomed 35.5 million foreign tourists in 2024, reclaiming its spot as Southeast Asia’s most-visited country. Visa-free programs for Chinese and Indian travelers fueled the surge, prompting neighboring countries to ease their visa policies to stay competitive.

Three Foreigners Caught in Phuket for Illegal Motorcycle Modifications Three foreigners were caught in Phuket for illegal motorcycle modifications during a police checkpoint near the Holiday Inn Resort. A 29-year-old Frenchman and two Russian nationals were stopped for installing illegal accessories and excessively loud exhaust pipes. Their motorcycles, a Yamaha TMAX, Honda CB650R, and Kawasaki Z1000, violated Thai traffic laws. They were taken to the Karon Police Station and may face fines of up to 2,000 baht for vehicle alterations and 1,000 baht for exceeding noise limits. Police have not yet disclosed the final penalties.

Thailand to Destroy Over 27 Tonnes of Illegal Drugs in ONCB Crackdown Thailand’s Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) will destroy over 27 tonnes of illegal drugs on February 5 as part of its crackdown on narcotics. The seized substances include methamphetamine, heroin, ketamine, cocaine, and ecstasy, confiscated in 151 cases over the past two months. Authorities have ensured transparency, with scientific testing conducted before incineration. The drug destruction event, declared a national priority by PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra, will take place in Samut Prakan and be livestreamed for public accountability.

Thai Man Throws Ex-Girlfriend Down Stairs, Threatens to Share Explicit Videos A Thai man, identified as Anusit, violently attacked his ex-girlfriend in Rayong, throwing her down a 1.7-metre stairwell outside her workplace, causing a hip injury. After failing to reconcile, he stalked her for days and later took to social media, offering explicit videos as a bounty for information on her whereabouts. The victim had ended their six-year relationship due to his gambling addiction and violent behavior. Despite escaping his continued harassment, it's unclear if she has taken legal action. The disturbing case has sparked outrage online.

Five Thai Hostages Freed by Hamas to Return Home on February 8 Five Thai nationals held hostage by Hamas for over a year are set to return home on February 8, pending medical clearance. One Thai hostage remains unaccounted for, and efforts to secure their release continue. Thailand has been working diplomatically with Israel, Qatar, Turkey, Iran, Egypt, and the US to facilitate negotiations. Two Thai nationals have been confirmed dead, and their repatriation has been requested. Upon arrival, the freed hostages will receive moral and financial support. Thailand's role in ceasefire talks has been acknowledged by Israeli officials.

Missing British Man Found Dead in Bangkok British man James Sangwine, 33, was found dead in Bangkok after going missing during a holiday. His family lost contact after he went out on January 20, and he was last seen heading to the Abandoned Mansion Bar & Restaurant. Sangwine was supposed to fly home on January 24 but never boarded his flight. His family launched a fundraiser to bring his body back to the UK, quickly surpassing its £15,000 target, now reaching £21,000. Friends and family remember him as a lively and loving father, West Ham fan, and storyteller. The UK Foreign Office is assisting his family while Thai police have not yet released details on his death.

Thailand's New Digital Arrival Card Sparks Confusion Among Travelers Thailand's new Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), set to launch on May 1, is causing confusion among travelers due to unclear implementation details. The TDAC will replace the TM6 entry card, requiring all foreign arrivals to submit an online form before traveling. However, Thai authorities have not yet disclosed the submission platform, how airlines will enforce compliance, or if TDACs can be completed upon arrival. There’s speculation that it might double as a customs declaration form. With less than two months before rollout, travelers and airlines await urgent clarification to avoid travel disruptions.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and the Asia region, as presented on the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. Topics range from the discovery of a missing British man in Bangkok to the rising demand for flu vaccines in Taiwan. 1. British Man Found Dead in Bangkok Thai authorities found British tourist James Sangwine dead after he went missing on January 20. His family raised £21,000 to repatriate his body, while Thai police have yet to reveal the cause of death. 2. Thai Man Attacks Ex-Girlfriend, Offers Explicit Videos for Info A Thai man threw his ex-girlfriend down a stairwell in Rayong and later posted online, offering explicit videos in exchange for her location. Netizens demand justice. 3. Hamas Releases Five Thai Hostages Five Thai hostages held by Hamas will return home on February 8 after medical clearance. One Thai remains missing as negotiations continue. 4. Thailand’s New Digital Arrival Card Causes Confusion The Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) launches on May 1, replacing the TM6 form. Unclear implementation details have left travelers and airlines seeking urgent clarification. 5. Thailand to Destroy 27 Tonnes of Illegal Drugs Thai authorities will incinerate 27 tonnes of seized narcotics on February 5 in a nationwide drug crackdown, ensuring transparency through scientific testing and live streaming. 6. Phuket Police Arrest Three Foreigners for Bike Modifications Police in Phuket arrested three foreigners for illegally modifying their motorcycles. They face fines for vehicle alterations and excessive noise violations. 7. Nightclub Fire Kills Two in Phnom Penh A fire at Phnom Penh’s Midnight Premier Club killed two and injured five. Authorities suspect welding work caused the blaze, and the club owner has been summoned for questioning. 8. Philippine VP Sara Duterte Impeached The Philippine House impeached Vice-President Sara Duterte over corruption claims and alleged threats against President Marcos. The case moves to the Senate. 9. Malaysian Influencer Disappears in Bandung Forest Eyka, a 22-year-old Malaysian influencer, vanished in a Bandung forest during a paranormal hunt. Authorities and locals are searching for her. 10. Flu Vaccine Demand Surges in Taiwan Following Barbie Hsu’s influenza-related death, Taiwan faces a flu vaccine shortage. The A (H1N1) strain is fueling outbreaks across Asia and Europe.

Pattaya Police Deny British Tourist’s Bribery Claims, Promise Review Pattaya police have dismissed a British tourist’s bribery claims as “largely untrue” while promising a full review. Andrew Hopkins, 55, alleged he was jailed for 36 hours in poor conditions and forced to pay 15,000 baht for his release. However, Pattaya Police Chief Pol. Col. Nawin Theerawit stated that Hopkins, drunk at the time, was initially fined 100 baht for damaging a barrier but later arrested again for causing disturbances. The police insist due process was followed, with CCTV evidence and documented belongings, while the case is now under further scrutiny to maintain Pattaya’s reputation.