French zoo owner detained on Koh Samui

The transcription below provides news stories from across Thailand, hosted by Alex in the Good Morning Thailand programme. The stories range from a French zoo owner facing deportation to a romance scam that leaves a Brit homeless.

French zoo owner detained on Koh Samui

French national Kevin Dimino, co-owner of Samui Exotic Park, has been detained by immigration officers on Koh Samui. Authorities detained him on September 8 ahead of a deportation order signed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Officials cited six alleged incidents involving harassment, threats and physical confrontations. Dimino can appeal the order within seven days of receiving formal notification.

Thailand to recruit 10,000 Sri Lankan workers

Thailand’s Cabinet has approved agreements to bring 10,000 Sri Lankan workers into the country. The programme aims to address labour shortages and reduce illegal hiring and human trafficking. Workers will receive two-year contracts, with the option to extend for another two years. They must have valid work permits, health insurance and work only for their approved employers.

Craft beer industry challenges proposed alcohol rules

Thailand’s craft beer industry has raised concerns about proposed alcohol advertising regulations. The draft rules could require health warnings to cover one-third of advertising space and limit product names and logos to just 3% to 5%. The industry says the rules could affect menus, social media posts, beer festivals and taprooms. The Craft Beer Business Association plans to oppose the proposals.

British pensioner returns home after romance scam

A 68-year-old British pensioner has returned to the UK after an online romance scam left him homeless in Bangkok. Simon Charles Hill lost his savings after making several payments to a woman who claimed she was waiting for a US$3 million inheritance. A Bangkok charity found him homeless in July and helped arrange accommodation and his return home. Authorities believe the scammers may operate from Nigeria.

77-year-old driver charged over wrong-way driving

A 77-year-old woman has faced charges after CCTV captured her Mercedes driving against traffic on Bangkok’s Vibhavadi Rangsit Road. Police traced the vehicle and questioned the driver on September 8. She faces preliminary charges including reckless driving and failing to follow traffic signs. No crashes or injuries occurred.

Chinese businesswoman reports 30 million baht in missing valuables

A Chinese businesswoman has reported more than 30 million baht worth of missing valuables from her rented home in Samut Prakan. Chen Jia was in China when her maid found a broken door lock and removed security cameras. Chen says her rental agreement remains valid despite a dispute over the property’s ownership. She has asked police to investigate alleged trespassing and secure the property.

Teen injured after stray dogs chase motorcycle

A 17-year-old girl suffered serious injuries after stray dogs chased her motorcycle in Nakhon Ratchasima. She lost control and crashed while trying to escape the dogs. The teenager needed around 40 stitches and spent a night in hospital. Residents are calling for sterilisation, vaccination and better stray dog population control.

100,000 baht reward offered for missing Scottish Fold

A Nonthaburi family has doubled the reward for their missing Scottish Fold cat to 100,000 baht. The two-year-old cat, Chang An, has grey fur, yellow eyes and a medical condition requiring regular medication. The family has searched the area for almost a month and posted notices around Rama 5 Road. They are asking anyone who finds Chang An to return him, with no questions asked.