Eight Monks Killed After Child Crashes Pickup

The transcription below provides news stories from across Thailand, hosted by Alex and Jay in the Good Morning Thailand program. The stories range from eight monks killed after a child crashes a pickup to 35 visa-free destinations for Thai travellers.

Eight Monks Killed After Child Crashes Pickup

An 11-year-old boy allegedly took his parents' pickup truck before crashing into a group of monks on a walking pilgrimage in Mukdahan. Eight monks died and 13 others suffered serious injuries. The boy's grandmother said he has additional support needs and alerted police after discovering the vehicle was missing. Investigators are now working to determine exactly what happened.

Five Myanmar Workers Burned in Bangkok Attack

Five Myanmar migrant workers suffered severe burns after a Cambodian man allegedly set them on fire in Bangkok's Phra Khanong district. Emergency crews rushed the victims to hospital, while police identified a Cambodian suspect. Officers continue investigating the motive behind the attack.

Surin Man Accused of Setting Home Ablaze

A man in Surin allegedly set fire to his own home after his pregnant wife left following claims of domestic abuse. Firefighters quickly contained the blaze, limiting the damage. Police said the man admitted starting the fire but was not detained due to insufficient evidence.

PM Warns Heroin Case Damages Thailand's Reputation

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul says the arrest of a Thai Airways flight attendant in Australia over alleged heroin smuggling has harmed Thailand's international reputation. He has ordered agencies to tighten security measures, warning the case could affect Thailand's ambitions to become a regional aviation hub.

Thai Airways Reinforces Staff Rules

Thai Airways has reminded employees they must not carry packages or personal items for others following the heroin smuggling case involving one of its flight attendants. The airline has suspended the employee and launched an internal investigation while police continue investigating the wider drug network.

Drunk Delivery Rider Found Sleeping in Water Tank

Rescue workers in Khon Kaen saved an intoxicated delivery rider after he climbed into a 500-litre water tank and fell asleep. Residents spotted only his head above the water before emergency crews safely removed him. He later told police he climbed into the tank after drinking at a party.

Pattaya Hotels Feel Tourism Slowdown

Hotels across Pattaya and Chon Buri are struggling through a weaker-than-usual low season, with occupancy dropping to just 15% to 20%. Tourism officials blame fewer business events, reduced flights and lower travel demand for the sharp decline in visitors.

35 Visa-Free Destinations for Thai Travellers

Thailand's Department of Consular Affairs has updated its list of 35 countries and territories offering visa-free entry for Thai passport holders. The permitted length of stay varies by destination, and travellers are advised to check the latest entry requirements before departure.