Brit Arrested for Drugs and Overstaying in Koh Samui

[Video News]

 

In today’s regional news update by Jay and Alex, law enforcement across Southeast Asia remains active, from drug busts in Thailand and India to visa crackdowns and safety investigations. Meanwhile, political shifts are underway in Singapore ahead of the general election, and new public health regulations are rolling out in Malaysia. Tensions surrounding foreign influence in the Philippines and infrastructure failures in Cambodia also highlight the region’s evolving challenges.

 

Brit Arrested in Koh Samui for Cocaine Possession and Visa Overstay
A British man has been arrested on Koh Samui after being caught with cocaine and overstaying his visa since October. He admitted to buying the drugs from a Thai dealer. He now faces legal action for both drug and immigration offences.

 

Four Indians Busted Smuggling Hydroponic Weed from Bangkok to Mumbai
Indian customs have seized over 78 million baht worth of cannabis from Bangkok-bound passengers. Several suspects were caught smuggling the drugs in luggage and travel pillows. Authorities suspect a growing smuggling route between the two cities.

 

Chinese Steel Fails Second Safety Test in Thai Building Collapse Probe
Steel from a Chinese supplier has failed a second safety test in Thailand’s investigation into a building collapse. Officials are raising concerns over the material’s quality as inquiries continue into construction standards.

 

Phuket Police Nab Russian Tour Guides in Crackdown on Illegal Operators
Two Russians have been arrested for illegally working as tour guides in Phuket. Police also fined two tour companies for violating tourism laws. Only Thai nationals are permitted to guide tourists in the country.

 

Reckless Motorcyclist Injures Wife with Railway Barrier in Bangkok
A man in Bangkok faces legal action after driving under a railway barrier, causing it to strike his wife seated behind him. CCTV shows the woman injured while the husband failed to help her. She is now recovering.

 

Husband Erects Sign After Wife’s Bras Stolen Twice in Nonthaburi
A bra thief has struck the same home twice in Nonthaburi, prompting the homeowner to post a warning sign. CCTV footage captured the suspect in both cases. Police are investigating the repeat thefts.

 

EDC Apologises for Phnom Penh Blackout, Urges Citizens to Save Power
Cambodia’s main power company has apologised for a major blackout in Phnom Penh on April 24. Electricity was cut for over two hours due to a high-voltage line issue. Residents are urged to reduce consumption.

 

PAP Introduces 32 New Faces in Major Shake-Up Ahead of Singapore Election
Singapore’s ruling party has unveiled 32 new candidates ahead of the May 3 election. This marks Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s first major political test since taking office. Several veteran politicians are stepping down.

 

Philippines to Investigate Alleged Chinese Troll Farm Operation
The Philippines is investigating claims that the Chinese embassy is running a troll farm through a local firm. A Senate hearing revealed a contract between the embassy and the company. Officials are considering criminal charges.

 

Malaysian Province to Enforce Vape and E-Cigarette Ban from August 1
Terengganu will ban the sale and advertising of vapes from August 1. No licences will be issued, and violators may face legal action. Authorities will assist affected workers in transitioning to new livelihoods.