Russian-Canadian Arrested in Koh Pha Ngan For Overstaying Visa

[Video News]

 

 

The transcription below provides the stories across Thailand and Southeast Asia countries in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The news stories range from the overstaying Russian-Canadian arrested in Koh Pha Ngan to Singapore easing permanent residency rules for international students.

 

1. Russian-Canadian Arrested in Koh Pha Ngan

A 56-year-old Russian-Canadian, Dimitri, was arrested in Koh Pha Ngan for overstaying his visa by nearly four years and begging for food. Residents reported him to the Tourist Police. Dimitri faces charges under Thailand's Immigration Act, risking up to two years in prison and a fine of up to 20,000 baht. Thai police are cracking down on visa overstayers and illegal workers.

 

2. Hidden Camera Found in Chon Buri Apartment

In Chon Buri, a transgender caretaker is suspected of installing a hidden camera in a woman's air-conditioning unit. The victim, Noon, found the camera and reported it on Facebook. The caretaker, who entered without permission, has disappeared. Police are investigating, including analyzing fingerprints on the camera.

 

3. Bangkok Man Arrested After Three-Week Manhunt

Police arrested 38-year-old Surapong after a three-week manhunt for raping a 59-year-old woman in Bangkok. The attack happened on July 23. Surapong fled but was identified through personal documents left behind. He evaded the police by moving between provinces before being found in Bangkok. He faces charges of sexual assault and has a criminal history.

 

4. Pipe Bomb Attack at Narathiwat Checkpoint

Two assailants threw pipe bombs at the Batu checkpoint in Narathiwat, injuring a paramilitary volunteer and damaging property. The suspects fled on a motorcycle. The incident, which was caught on CCTV, highlights ongoing unrest in the region. Authorities are increasing security and seeking public help to apprehend the attackers.

 

5. Temu’s Entry into the Thai Market Prompts Action

The entry of e-commerce giant Temu has prompted the Thai government to protect local SMEs. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stressed the need for adaptation. The Ministry of Commerce aims to ensure fair competition, prevent low-quality imports, and promote Thai products through events like a live commerce festival.

 

6. Thailand Ranks 44th in the Paris 2024 Olympics

Thailand ranked 44th in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, winning six medals: one gold in taekwondo, three silvers (two in weightlifting, one in badminton), and two bronzes (one in weightlifting, one in boxing). Thailand placed third among ASEAN countries. Panipak Wongpattanakit became the first Thai athlete to win two Olympic gold medals in taekwondo.

 

7. Philippines to Review Agreement with China

The Philippines will review its agreement with China on avoiding confrontations during resupply missions to the Second Thomas Shoal. The agreement, made in July, allowed a Philippine resupply mission without interference. Recent incidents, including Chinese aircraft flares near a Philippine plane, have reignited tensions. Philippine officials insist the agreement does not affect their territorial claims.

 

8. Indonesian President's First Cabinet Meeting in Nusantara

Indonesian President Joko Widodo held his first cabinet meeting in Nusantara, the future capital still under construction. The $33 billion project symbolizes Indonesia's future, aiming for a green, sustainable city. President-elect Prabowo Subianto supports the project. Private investment is crucial, but the project faces environmental and displacement criticisms.

 

9. Singapore Eases Permanent Residency Rules for Students

Singapore has eased permanent residency rules for international students, allowing applications after passing at least one national exam or being in an integrated program. Students aged 15 and above can now apply online. The changes aim to enhance integration and offer a pathway to citizenship, with a high success rate for applicants.