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German Muay Thai Trainee Arrested in Phuket for Motorcycle Theft A German man was arrested in Chalong, Phuket, for allegedly stealing a motorcycle from a Thai national on April 5. Police quickly tracked and apprehended the suspect, recovering the stolen bike and a suspected stolen iPhone 16 Pro Max. The man, who had been living in Soi Ta-iad and training at a local Muay Thai camp, is now in custody facing legal proceedings. Authorities are investigating whether he’s linked to other crimes. Chalong Police praised the swift action and urged the public to stay alert and report suspicious activity.

Thai Man Jumps from Police Station After Actress Accuses Him of Fraud A Thai man jumped from the third floor of a Bangkok police station after being accused by actress Rinyarat “Kana” Watchararojsiri of fraud. Kana claims he tricked her into marriage, posing as a secret government and royal advisor, and defrauded her of money and luxury gifts. She discovered the truth after his legal wife contacted her. The man denied the allegations and, during police questioning, attempted suicide by jumping from the station. He was hospitalized, and police are still investigating the case, which may involve lese majeste charges.

Russians Now Hold 1 in 4 Foreign Work Permits in Phuket A new report from the Phuket Provincial Employment Office reveals that Russians now hold 25% of all foreign work permits in Phuket, with 3,926 out of 15,620 total permits. This highlights a growing shift from tourism to long-term living and working among Russians on the island. Other top nationalities include workers from the Philippines, China, and the UK. Most foreigners are employed in hotels, F&B, education, consulting, and tourism. The report has renewed discussions about labour integration and economic planning as Phuket’s expat workforce continues to diversify.

The following transcription features top news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented on Good Morning Thailand with hosts Alex and Jay. Coverage includes topics ranging from Russians dominating Phuket work permits to Vietnam bracing for an economic blow from new US tariffs. 1. Russians Dominate Phuket Work Permits Russians now hold 25% of all foreign work permits in Phuket, marking a shift toward long-term residency. 2. Fraud Accusation Ends in Police Station Jump A Thai man accused of fraud by actress Kana jumped from a Bangkok police station’s third floor during questioning. 3. German Arrested for Bike Theft in Phuket Police in Chalong arrested a German Muay Thai trainee for allegedly stealing a motorbike and possibly an iPhone. 4. Ayutthaya Bus Crash Injures 21 Workers A factory shuttle bus overturned into a ditch in Ayutthaya, injuring 21 passengers. Police are hunting the driver. 5. TikTok Star Slammed for Ignoring Injured Dog After a crash in Chiang Mai, influencer Nungty faces backlash for allegedly leaving a stray dog injured at the scene. 6. Flash Floods Paralyse Samut Prakan Torrential rain caused major flooding in Samut Prakan, bringing traffic to a standstill on multiple roads. 7. Malaysia Leads ASEAN Push Against US Tariffs PM Anwar says Malaysia will head ASEAN’s united response to new US tariffs, calling for regional solidarity. 8. Cambodia Challenges US Tariff Claims PM Hun Manet says the US’s 97% figure is misleading and offers tariff cuts on US goods as a goodwill move. 9. Sara Duterte Returns Amid Political Tensions Sara Duterte is back from The Hague after supporting her father at the ICC, as her own Senate trial looms. 10. Vietnam Braces for Economic Blow from US Tariff Vietnam warns a 46% US tariff could derail its 8% GDP target, pushing for talks and possible import increases.

Thailand Urged to Set Up ‘War Room’ Amid US Tariff Shock Thailand is being urged to form a “war room” in response to a new 36% US tariff on Thai imports announced by President Trump. Economist Dr. Santitarn Sathienthai warns the move could trigger global trade disruptions, harming Thailand’s economy. He predicts delayed Chinese investment and intensified market competition, as countries seek alternatives to the US. With uncertainty stalling business decisions worldwide, he stresses urgent coordination between public and private sectors to mitigate risks. The tariff shock, he argues, could have deeper and longer-lasting effects than initially expected.

Thai Homeowners Offered Repair Aid After Quake Thai homeowners impacted by the March 28 Myanmar earthquake can now claim up to 49,500 baht in government repair aid. The 8.2-magnitude tremor caused structural damage across Bangkok and nearby provinces. MP Suphanat Minchaiynunt confirmed the support from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Eligible residents in affected areas must submit photos, ID, a police report, and a completed form to their district office. A property inspection will follow before funds are disbursed. The aid aims to ease financial burdens and help citizens rebuild as aftershocks continue to unsettle communities.

US Nurse Suffers Devastating Injuries in Krabi Moped Crash American ICU nurse Sierra Fairhurst, 24, suffered catastrophic facial injuries in a moped crash while vacationing in Krabi, Thailand. The accident left her with shattered bones, missing teeth, and severe trauma. Her mother described grim hospital conditions, including pigeons in the room and delayed treatment due to a lost passport. A GoFundMe was launched to help with mounting medical costs. With urgent help from the US Embassy, Sierra was transferred to Bangkok for surgery, then flown home by March 27. Now back in the U.S., she's facing a long road to recovery—both physically and financially.

Phuket Launches ‘Safe Songkran’ Truck Safety Rules As Songkran celebrations ramp up, Phuket officials are urging revellers to stay safe—especially those riding in the back of pickup trucks. The “Safe Songkran: Sit Smart in the Back of a Pickup” campaign outlines strict rules: no standing or sitting on edges, no kids under six or under 135cm, and a max of six passengers in the truck bed. Speed must stay under 60 km/h. With accidents peaking during the holiday, authorities stress road safety, targeting risky behaviours like drunk driving. Enjoy the festivities—but follow the rules to make it a Songkran to remember for the right reasons.

Bangkok Drug Suspect Tries to Flee with Faeces Attack A drug suspect in Bangkok attempted a bizarre escape by smearing faeces on police officers. Noppakit, 33, initially clashed with condo staff over a broken lift. When police entered his room, they found benzhexol tablets, ketamine, and an unlicensed firearm. During arrest, Noppakit pretended to need the bathroom, defecated, and tried to flee while wielding the waste—unsuccessfully. He now faces drug and firearm charges with potential prison time and hefty fines. Three others in the room were also charged for drug possession. Police managed to clean and detain Noppakit after the failed “poo-litical” stunt.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented on the Good Morning Thailand program with hosts Alex and Jay. Coverage includes everything from a U.S. nurse injured in a Krabi moped crash to the rising death toll following the devastating earthquake in Myanmar. 1. US Nurse Injured in Krabi Moped Crash An American ICU nurse suffered severe facial injuries in a Krabi moped crash. After emergency treatment in Bangkok, she was flown home, facing a long recovery. 2. Australian Teen Dies in Koh Samui Crash A 19-year-old Australian tragically died in a Koh Samui motorbike accident. His death highlights the dangers of Thailand’s roads. 3. Thailand Urged to Tackle US Tariff Shock Thailand faces economic pressure as a 36% US tariff threatens trade. Experts warn of investment delays and market competition shifts. 4. Thai Homeowners Offered Aid After Quake Thai residents affected by the Myanmar earthquake can claim up to 49,500 baht for repairs. Officials stress the need for swift recovery efforts. 5. Bangkok Drug Suspect’s Bizarre Escape Attempt A Bangkok drug suspect smeared faeces on police in a failed escape attempt. He now faces serious drug and firearm charges. 6. Phuket Introduces Songkran Truck Safety Rules Phuket launches a safety campaign for Songkran, limiting pickup truck passengers and enforcing stricter road safety measures. 7. Cambodia Downplays US Tariff Concerns Cambodia urged calm after the US imposed a 49% tariff on imports, insisting the move is economic rather than political. 8. Malaysia Suspends MH370 Search Again Malaysia halts the MH370 search due to weather conditions, but families continue demanding answers 11 years after its disappearance. 9. Myanmar Quake Death Toll Surpasses 3,000 Over 3,000 people have died in Myanmar’s devastating earthquake. A temporary ceasefire allows aid, but tensions remain high. 10. China Arrests Filipinos for Alleged Espionage China detains three Filipinos accused of spying, escalating diplomatic tensions with the Philippines amid growing South China Sea disputes.

https://youtube.com/shorts/-TbdmG79LWw?feature=share Sweeping Beauty Gets Horror Movie Makeover, Wins Internet Again Bangkok road sweeper Noppajit “Meen” Somboonsate, 28, has captured Thai hearts once again—this time with a dramatic makeover as Panor from the cult Thai horror film Art of the Devil 2. Meen first went viral after a Russian photographer shared a portrait of her online, leading to widespread praise for her natural beauty and charm. Renowned make-up artist Nong Chat transformed her into the iconic character, earning more admiration and landing her a promotional role for his Browit brand. Netizens continue to call for Meen to enter the entertainment world.

Chill Pup Echo Becomes Viral Star During Bangkok Earthquake During a recent Bangkok earthquake, a fluffy Samoyed named Echo stole hearts online by refusing to flee with her owners—choosing a nap over escape. A viral TikTok video shows Echo lying unbothered as her panicked owner tries to pull her to safety. Despite repeated efforts, Echo only budges when snacks are used as bait. The clip, now with over 5 million views, has amused netizens and provided comic relief amidst the quake's aftermath. While Echo may lack disaster instincts, she’s won fans for her chilled-out charm and viral-worthy stubbornness.

Bangkok Motor Show Sees EV Boom with 29% Surge in Reservations The 46th Bangkok International Motor Show is seeing a major boost in interest, with car reservations up 29% from last year. In just the first week, over 24,700 vehicles were reserved, driven largely by excitement around electric vehicles (xEVs). Organisers credit the surge to the strong presence of EV dealers and new model launches. Running until April 6 at Impact Challenger Hall, the show highlights the latest in automotive tech and green innovation. Final numbers are expected to rise, reflecting Thailand’s growing shift toward eco-conscious car ownership.

Hungry American Nabbed After Robbing Donation Box in Pattaya A 62-year-old American man named John was arrested in the early hours of April 2 for breaking into a donation box outside a Pattaya police station. Claiming hunger after losing his ATM card, he used a stone to force open the box belonging to the Father Ray Foundation, stuffing cash and coins into his wallet. Police caught him in the act and have initiated legal proceedings. While his desperation may evoke sympathy, the theft from a charitable cause shocked locals and tourists alike, underscoring the serious consequences of such actions.

The following transcription features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. Highlights include a drunken Hungarian tourist causing chaos at a Bangkok collapse site and Phnom Penh’s Walk Street celebrations for Khmer New Year. 1. Drunk Hungarian Tourist Disrupts Bangkok Collapse Site A drunken Hungarian man caused chaos at a Bangkok disaster site, claiming his friends were trapped. He tried to breach restricted areas before police calmed him down. 2. Hong Kong Mafia Murder Suspect Caught in Pattaya Thai police arrested a Hong Kong mafia member hiding in Pattaya after a fatal drug-related attack in Kowloon. He faces deportation following swift action by Interpol and Thai authorities. 3. American Arrested for Robbing Pattaya Donation Box A 62-year-old American was caught stealing from a Pattaya charity donation box, claiming hunger after losing his ATM card. Locals condemned the theft from a good cause. 4. Bangkok Motor Show Sees 29% Surge in EV Sales Electric vehicles are driving record sales at the Bangkok Motor Show, with bookings up 29% from last year. The event runs until 6 April at Impact Challenger Hall. 5. Chill Pup Echo Goes Viral During Bangkok Earthquake A Samoyed named Echo stole hearts online by refusing to flee during a Bangkok earthquake, choosing a nap over safety. A viral TikTok of her relaxed reaction has 5M+ views. 6. Bangkok Sweeper’s Horror Makeover Wins Internet Again Bangkok street sweeper Meen, who first went viral for her natural beauty, stunned fans again with a horror movie makeover, earning a role with Browit cosmetics. 7. Myanmar Junta Rejects Ceasefire Amid Earthquake Crisis Myanmar’s junta refused a ceasefire for earthquake relief, as the death toll surpassed 3,000. Military attacks continue despite calls for humanitarian aid. 8. Putra Heights Gas Blast Leaves 10-Metre Crater A massive gas explosion in Putra Heights, Malaysia, left a 10-metre-deep crater, displacing 500 residents. Investigations focus on a nearby development project. 9. Phnom Penh Hosts Walk Street for Khmer New Year Phnom Penh will celebrate Khmer New Year with a five-day festival, including Walk Street and cultural events. Authorities expect heavy traffic from 12–16 April. 10. Vietnam Prepares Grand Parade for Reunification Day Ho Chi Minh City will mark 50 years of reunification with a grand parade, military march, and fireworks on 30 April, honouring war veterans and historic achievements.

Murder Suspect from Hong Kong Mafia Captured in Pattaya Hideout A Hong Kong mafia member wanted for murder was arrested in Pattaya, Thailand, after fleeing a fatal drug-related attack in Kowloon on 16 March. The suspect, 25-year-old Mr. Truong, had been hiding with his Thai girlfriend in a rented home. Thai authorities, acting on a request from Hong Kong Interpol, located and detained him on 27 March. His residency has been revoked pending deportation. Interpol officials thanked Thai police for their swift cooperation. Immigration authorities continue to urge landlords to report foreign tenants and remain vigilant against cross-border crime.

Drunk Hungarian Tourist Causes Chaos at Bangkok Collapse Site A drunken Hungarian man caused a disturbance at the site of a collapsed building in Bangkok, claiming his friends were trapped under the rubble. He had flown in from Hungary and insisted on visiting the disaster scene before heading to Pattaya. Witnesses said he tried to breach the restricted area and questioned the lack of activity on site. Authorities intervened and calmed him down. The man, visibly intoxicated, had earlier agreed to pay 4,000 baht for the taxi ride but later only offered 300 baht, sparking a dispute. After apologising to officials, he chose to go with the taxi driver to police to resolve the fare disagreement.

Airbnb, Bangkok Launch Free Housing for Quake Victims Bangkok is partnering with Airbnb.org to provide up to 2,000 free nights of accommodation for earthquake-affected residents, rescue workers, and volunteers. Announced by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration on March 31, the initiative targets individuals unable to return home due to damage or evacuation. Over 200 people have already received aid. Airbnb.org, a non-profit arm of Airbnb, connects people with free temporary housing during crises and has supported over 250,000 people globally since 2020. Eligibility will be determined by city officials, with no fees charged for these stays.

Israeli Man Arrested for Sexually Assaulting Finnish Tourist A 36-year-old Israeli man, David Eisa, was arrested at Phuket Airport for allegedly sexually assaulting a 19-year-old Finnish woman in Koh Samui. The assault reportedly occurred on March 29, after the intoxicated victim was lured to a beachside seating area, where Eisa allegedly forced her into sexual acts despite her protests. She later filed a police report, prompting an arrest warrant. Authorities apprehended Eisa while he attempted to flee Thailand. The investigation is ongoing, with further charges possible pending forensic results.

Pattaya Beach Attack: Drunk Security Guard Assaults Transwoman A drunken off-duty security guard allegedly assaulted a transgender woman, Malata, on Pattaya Beach by smashing a beer bottle over her head, leaving her hospitalised. The incident occurred on March 31 and was witnessed by shocked tourists. Police detained the guard, 42-year-old Wasan, and another man, Weerawat, at the scene. Eyewitnesses claim the group had verbally taunted Malata before the attack. Video footage captured by a bystander is now key evidence. Police are awaiting Malata’s recovery to proceed with formal charges, pledging action under Thai law following the investigation.

PM Reassures Public on Bangkok Building Safety Following the collapse of a Bangkok building during the March 28 earthquake, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra reassured the public that the incident was due to isolated technical errors, not widespread structural risks. She pledged a thorough investigation and emphasised Thailand’s building safety standards. Over 13,000 inspections have been conducted, with only two buildings deemed unsafe. Italian-Thai Development PCL, part of the joint venture behind the failed project, expressed regret and promised cooperation. Criminal charges are being considered, though blacklisting has not been confirmed. The government remains focused on restoring international confidence.

Speedboat Explosion in Phuket Injures Six Tourists A speedboat explosion near Koh Mai Thon, Phuket, injured six people this morning, including foreign tourists and crew. The Thana Marine 555 caught fire after engine trouble, with most passengers already in the water during a snorkelling tour. The captain and a crew member suffered burns, while others were hurt by flying debris. Swift action from maritime officials and the Thai Navy followed, but the vessel was destroyed. The incident has sparked widespread concern over boat safety in Thailand, with officials pledging a full investigation and stricter enforcement of safety standards.

Substandard Steel Blamed for Bangkok Tower Collapse The collapse of a Bangkok office tower during the March 28 earthquake is now linked to substandard steel from a Chinese-owned factory shut down in December. Tests revealed the steel, made by Xin Ke Yuan Steel Co., failed safety standards. The factory, located in Rayong, had already been shuttered over safety issues. The building, only 45% complete, was the only one to fall in Bangkok, killing at least 12. Authorities are now expanding investigations into the steel’s source, the construction joint venture ITD-CREC, and possible misuse of Thai nominee shareholders by the Chinese firm.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. Highlights include the Bangkok tower collapse linked to substandard steel and the miraculous rescue of a pregnant woman after 91 hours trapped in Myanmar’s earthquake rubble. 1. Bangkok Tower Collapse Linked to Substandard Steel Investigators blame substandard steel from a Chinese-owned factory for the March 28 Bangkok tower collapse, which killed 12. Authorities are probing the steel’s origin and the construction joint venture ITD-CREC. 2. PM Assures Public on Bangkok Building Safety PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra says the Bangkok tower collapse was an isolated incident, not a widespread risk. A full investigation is underway, with 13,000 inspections revealing only two unsafe buildings. 3. Phuket Speedboat Explosion Injures Six A speedboat explosion near Koh Mai Thon, Phuket, injured six people, including foreign tourists. Officials promise a full investigation and stricter safety measures for Thailand’s boats. 4. Drunk Guard Attacks Transwoman in Pattaya A drunken security guard allegedly assaulted a transwoman on Pattaya Beach, smashing a beer bottle over her head. Police arrested two suspects and are reviewing video evidence. 5. Israeli Man Arrested for Assaulting Finnish Tourist Police arrested an Israeli man at Phuket Airport for allegedly assaulting a Finnish tourist in Koh Samui. Authorities detained him as he attempted to flee Thailand. 6. Bangkok, Airbnb Provide Free Housing for Quake Victims Bangkok and Airbnb.org are offering 2,000 free nights of accommodation for earthquake victims and rescue workers. Over 200 people have already received aid. 7. AI Earthquake Hoaxes Mislead Millions Fake AI-generated videos of Myanmar’s deadly earthquake are spreading online, misleading millions. Experts urge users to verify content as AI-driven misinformation grows. 8. China Censors Talk of Bangkok Tower Collapse China is deleting online discussions about a Chinese-built Bangkok skyscraper that collapsed during Myanmar’s quake, raising concerns over Chinese-led construction projects. 9. Cambodia Delays 2025 Work Permits for Foreigners Cambodia has postponed issuing 2025 work permits until April 30, 2025, due to a backlog. Foreign workers must apply online before the deadline to avoid fines. 10. Pregnant Woman Rescued After 91 Hours in Myanmar Rubble Rescuers saved a pregnant woman trapped for 91 hours after Myanmar’s earthquake. In Bangkok, search teams continue working at a collapsed tower, where 13 are confirmed dead.

Myanmar Aftershock Triggers Bangkok Evacuations, Raises Safety Concerns A minor aftershock from Myanmar’s recent earthquake was felt in Bangkok on March 31, prompting evacuations from several high-rise buildings, including the Government Complex in Lak Si. A loud cracking sound and falling plaster sparked panic, especially as parts of the complex—housing major courts and government offices—appeared to be sinking. However, the Thai Meteorological Department confirmed the tremor posed no threat to Thailand, attributing the structural issues to pre-existing cracks. Inspections are now underway, and building owners have been urged to assess structural safety before resuming operations. Officials emphasise relying on verified government updates for safety decisions.