Month: January 2025
- Tourism News
Smog threat looms over Thai tourism, hoteliers urge government action
Hotel operators are calling on the government to collaborate with the entire supply chain to address the smog issue before it significantly impacts tourism. Hostels have raised concerns about the financial burden of maintaining clean air for guests. Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, executive vice-president of Sukosol Hotels, stated that there have been no cancellations or delays due to smog during the…
Read More » - Pattaya News
Brutal Pattaya beatdown: Thai police hunt down Chinese gang
Thai police are cracking down on a brutal gang attack in Pattaya that left a Chinese man beaten unconscious in a shocking assault caught on CCTV. The violent attack, which took place on September 13 last year, quickly went viral, sparking outrage and a high-profile police investigation. Chon Buri Police Commander Police Major General Thawatakiat Jindakwansanong chaired a crisis meeting to review the case’s progress. So…
Read More » - Thailand News
Thai barber denies sexual assault allegation after customer shares video
A Thai man accused a barber in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen of sexually assaulting him while receiving a haircut, but the barber denied the accusation, claiming he merely flirted with the customer. The victim shared his story in a local Facebook group in Khon Kaen, warning others to avoid the barber‘s services. He posted part of a video…
Read More » - Crime News
Thai transwoman stifles laughter as thief steals fake gold necklace
A thief broke into a luxury house in the Isaan province of Udon Thani and escaped with a gold necklace, but the homeowner later confirmed that the stolen item was a fake. The Thai transwoman, 27 year old Phattarawan Kongphuthorn, filed a complaint with Mueang Udon Thani Police Station officers yesterday after returning home to find signs of a break-in.…
Read More » - Thailand News
Spectacular 70 year old mango tree in Surin draws crowds
A 70 year old forest mango tree in Surin is drawing crowds as it blooms spectacularly, with people stopping to take photos. Enthusiasts are also on the lookout for lucky numbers, with some spotting numbers like 37 and 15 at the tree’s base. The tree, believed to be between 60 and 70 years old, stands about 10 metres tall with…
Read More » - Thailand News
Thai Airways’ A320 business class: Luxury or letdown?
Thai Airways is stepping up its game, rolling out regional business class on its single-aisle Airbus A320 jets, promising premium perks and a smoother flying experience. But is it the luxury upgrade travellers crave—or just a glorified economy seat with extra legroom? Dubbed Royal Silk Class, Thai’s A320 business cabin features 12 wide reclining seats with a 38” pitch and 5” recline—a significant improvement over…
Read More » - Road deaths
Intoxicated driver crashes into Chon Buri restaurant, causes damage
A 51 year old driver crashed an off-road Toyota pickup into a power pole before colliding with a roadside restaurant in Si Racha district, Chon Buri province. The incident occurred around 12.30am today, January 29, near the entrance to Wat Khao Din Wanaram in Nong Kham subdistrict, resulting in significant damage to the restaurant and its property. Police Lieutenant Colonel Nopadon…
Read More » - Bangkok News
Bangkok residents frustrated by Chinese New Year fireworks chaos (video)
Residents in Bangkok are voicing their dissatisfaction over Chinese people setting off fireworks to celebrate the Chinese New Year, with little regard for police intervention. The fireworks have sparked fires in nearby grasslands, causing chaos for fire services, and have left pets in distress. Social media users have reported complaints from multiple areas across the city, including Huai Khwang, Rama…
Read More » - Crime News
Foreigners arrested in illegal daycare raid on Koh Pha Ngan
A special operations unit conducted a raid on Koh Pha Ngan, apprehending a group of foreigners from Russia, Ukraine, and Myanmar involved in operating an illegal childcare centre. The arrests were made yesterday, January 28, with Police Colonel Charoenchai Boonklieng and the special operations unit of the Surat Thani Provincial Police, in collaboration with the Koh Phangan Immigration Police, Koh…
Read More » - Thailand News
Thailand’s Destination Visa loophole that could cost you
The much-hyped Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is proving to be more of a bureaucratic headache than a dream ticket. While Bangkok Immigration (Division 1) has published criteria for extending the visa by six months, these guidelines aren’t binding on provincial offices, leaving holders navigating a minefield of uncertainty. The biggest revelation? It’s far easier to leave the country every 180 days than to fight through…
Read More » - Bangkok News
Man arrested in Bangkok for motorcycle theft and knife threat
A 47 year old man was apprehended by Sutthisan police after allegedly threatening a victim with a knife and stealing their motorcycle yesterday, January 28. The suspect, identified as Nui Somchai, was caught during a routine patrol after officers noticed suspicious behaviour near Sutthisan Police Station in Bangkok. Police Colonel Siam Boonsom directed Police Colonel Porntep Chalermkiat and other officers from…
Read More » - Thailand News
Chon Buri stray dog adopted by American man after firecracker scare
An American man calmed a stray dog that was frightened by firecrackers during a Chinese New Year celebration in Chon Buri and ended up adopting the animal. ThaiRath reported yesterday that chaos broke out at a convenience store in the Sattahip district of Chon Buri, but the incident surprisingly had a happy ending. According to the media, a white and…
Read More » - Pattaya News
Pattaya’s Walking Street swarmed by cops in CNY crackdown
Tourists on Pattaya’s infamous Walking Street got more than just neon lights and nightlife this Chinese New Year—law enforcement was out in full force. In a high-profile safety operation, Pattaya Tourist Police, backed by local police and the US Navy Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), launched a crackdown to ensure tourist safety during the festive season. Leading the charge was Police…
Read More » - Crime News
Trio arrested for stealing highway cables in Surat Thani
Three men have been arrested for stealing highway street lighting cables in Surat Thani province. The suspects were caught in the act by local highway officials and police. A subsequent search of their residence revealed more stolen items. Yesterday, January 28, Kritsada Khongplot, head of the Khian Sa highway department, received a tip-off about suspicious activity on Highway 44, at…
Read More » - Crime News
Drug courier shot in police chase, 800,000 meth pills seized
In Sai Noi district, Nonthaburi, a drug courier was shot and injured during a police chase that resulted in the seizure of 800,000 methamphetamine pills early yesterday morning, January 28. Police, led by Police Major General Khomsit Rangsai, chief of Metropolitan Police Division 9, positioned themselves discreetly along a road in tambon Khunsri around 3am. They were acting on information…
Read More » - Thailand video news
Thailand video news | Tourist brawl in Phuket sparks visa policy debate, Vietnam opens historical sites for free during Tết
Alex and Jay bring the latest video news from Thailand and Southeast Asia, covering a mix of tourism, politics, and cultural events. In Phuket, a tourist brawl and a series of dine-and-dash incidents have reignited debates on Thailand’s visa policies. Meanwhile, a British woman’s legal battle over a debt dispute highlights concerns about justice for foreigners. On the policy front,…
Read More » - Bangkok News
Illegal foreign workers busted in Bangkok salon raid
A beauty salon in Bangkok catering to Chinese tourists was raided, leading to the arrest of six hairdressers from China and Myanmar. The Chinese owner fled the scene. Police General Kittirat Phanpet, the national police chief, yesterday ordered measures to address the issue of foreigners breaking the law and to prepare for the High Season. Police Lieutenant General Saksira Phueka-am,…
Read More » - Thailand News
Thailand pledges continued refugee healthcare despite US aid halt
Thailand’s government will maintain healthcare services for refugees following US President Donald Trump’s directive for a 90-day halt on foreign aid, which affects the financial support for refugee healthcare in the country. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin stated yesterday, January 28, that approximately 100,000 refugees reside in nine camps along the Thai-Myanmar border. He noted that international organisations assist in…
Read More » - Bangkok News
Vietnamese national arrested for illegal cannabis farm in Bangkok
A Vietnamese national was arrested for illegal cannabis cultivation in a building in Bangkok, following complaints about noise and odours. The suspect claimed to have been hired by a Thai person for 20,000 baht a month. Yesterday, January 28, Police Major General Prasart Kemmaprasit, Commander of Immigration Division 1, alongside officers including Police Colonel Rapeepat Utsaha, Deputy Commander and Acting…
Read More » - Thailand News
Japan and China remain top spots for Thai tourists
Japan and China are anticipated to continue being the leading destinations for Thai tourists this year, with at least 2.5 million people expected to visit due to visa exemptions, weaker currencies, and a variety of tourism options. Charoen Wangananont, president of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), noted that these countries were the most popular at the Thai International Travel…
Read More » - Road deaths
Thai monk denies fatal hit-and-run despite CCTV evidence
A Thai monk denied involvement in a fatal hit-and-run in the central province of Ayutthaya, despite CCTV footage showing his car at the accident scene at approximately 12.30am on Monday, January 27. Rescuers from the Ruam Katanyu Foundation reported the death of a 30 year old Thai motorcyclist, Kasemsan, on their Facebook page on Monday. Kasemsan’s body was found at the…
Read More » - Thailand News
Over 700 stray dogs face starvation in Chachoengsao landfill
A concerning situation has emerged in Chachoengsao province, where over 700 stray dogs are reportedly starving at a local landfill, raising worries about potential rabies outbreaks as the hot season approaches. Residents are urging government intervention to address the pressing issue. Yesterday, January 28, reporters were alerted to the condition of these stray dogs at a landfill in Mueang Hua…
Read More » - Central Thailand News
Thai woman killed and her close friend injured in apartment fall
Two Thai women mysteriously fell from an apartment in the central province of Samut Sakhon yesterday, 28 January, resulting in one death and one serious injury. Officers from Krathum Baen Police Station were alerted to the incident at an apartment in Soi Khlong Maduea 1/1, in the Krathum Baen district of Samut Sakhon, at around 5pm yesterday. They rushed to…
Read More » - Crime News
Inmate escapes from Thai prison, father urges surrender
A 37 year old inmate escaped from Khao Phra Prison in Nakhon Ratchasima province on January 27, just three months before his scheduled release in April. His father is urging him to surrender, concerned that his son might be harmed while on the run. Somporn Promha, who was serving a sentence for drug-related offences, fled while participating in a community…
Read More » - Crime News
Thai taxi rider arrested for snatching Burmese woman’s gold necklace
Police arrested a Thai motorcycle taxi rider for snatching a gold necklace from a Burmese victim as she was walking on a footpath in Bangkok on Sunday, January. 26 The Burmese woman, Moe Moe Win, lodged a complaint with Phetchakasem Police Station at around 9.40am on Sunday following the theft. The incident occurred outside the Nanyang shoe factory in Soi…
Read More » - Phuket News
Firecrackers and red envelopes: Phuket’s CNY extravaganza
Phuket Old Town burst into life this morning, January 29, as Chinese Thais welcomed the Chinese New Year with vibrant celebrations, cultural traditions, and colourful altars. From Thalang Road to Phang Nga Road and Phuket Road, families and businesses set up beautifully adorned altars brimming with offerings, embracing the festive spirit with renewed enthusiasm. Compared to recent years, this year’s…
Read More » - Thailand News
Air quality to stay good until tomorrow, PM2.5 rises in February
The health ministry predicts that air quality will remain good until tomorrow, with PM2.5 levels expected to return by early February. Residents are advised to prepare for potential pollution, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities and should monitor air quality levels regularly. Yesterday, January 28, at the Ministry of Public Health’s Health Information Centre, Doctor Warat Chotipitayasunont, the government spokesperson…
Read More » - Pattaya News
Pattaya’s tourism takes a hit after Chinese abduction (video)
Thailand’s tourism industry has been rocked by the recent abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing, leaving popular hotspots like Pattaya eerily quiet. The star was allegedly lured to Thailand under false pretences before being trafficked across the border and held captive in Myawaddy, Myanmar. While Thai police scrambled to rescue the actor, the fallout was swift. News of the terrifying…
Read More » - Thailand News
Fires linked to Chinese New Year incense in Samut Songkhram
A fire engulfed three houses during Chinese New Year celebrations in Samut Songkhram province when incense and candles were left unattended. In a separate incident in Nakhon Pathom, a similar fire destroyed a house entirely. Yesterday, January 28, Police Lieutenant Pisin Nupinit, deputy inspector of Bang Khonthi police station, received a report of a fire in Moo 5, Bang Krabue…
Read More » - Thailand News
Mother of newborn twins falls to her death in hospital tragedy
A tragic incident occurred at Pathum Thani Hospital when a 31 year old mother of newborn twins fell to her death from the 18th floor. The hospital has issued a heartfelt statement, expressing deep condolences to the family and pledging full cooperation with police investigations. The woman, known as Bee for anonymity, had given birth to premature twins on January…
Read More » - Phuket News
Phuket gets ready for provincial elections this Saturday
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat has officially launched the final preparations for the upcoming election of members and the president of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), set to take place on February 1. The event, the Election Big Day, was organised by the Phuket office of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT Phuket) and the PPAO. During the ceremony, Akarawat…
Read More » - Thailand News
Children find headless body in Samut Sakhon canal
Children playing football near the riverbank made a startling discovery when they went to retrieve their ball yesterday, January 28. They found a floating body, missing its head and arms, in a canal in Om Noi, Krathum Baen district, Samut Sakhon province. Police Lieutenant Colonel Atsadawut Eadkeaw, an investigation deputy at Krathum Baen police station, reported receiving the notification around…
Read More » - Thailand Weather Updates
Thailand braces for final cold weather alert with strong winds
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a final warning about cold weather, heavy rain, and strong winds affecting Thailand. Forecasts indicate a further temperature drop, with thunderstorm warnings for select provinces yesterday, January 28. A high-pressure system is expected to maintain cold conditions in upper Thailand. Residents in the affected areas are advised to take care of their health…
Read More » - Thailand News
Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi leads Southeast Asia aviation industry
Southeast Asia’s aviation industry is taking off this year, with major airports and emerging destinations recording impressive growth in seat capacity. Fuelled by surging travel demand, expanded airline networks, and strategic connectivity upgrades, the region is cementing its position as a global aviation powerhouse. Leading the charge is Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, adding a staggering 407,000 seats in January—a 16% increase…
Read More » - Thailand News
Bangkok prison scrutinised for bribes and Chinese inmate privilege
A Thai political activist and former inmate accused officials at Bangkok Remand Prison of accepting bribes from a Chinese inmate and granting them privileges. The activist, Ekkachai Hongkangwan, took to Facebook on Tuesday, January 21, to share his experiences in Bangkok Remand Prison between 2022 and 2023. His post highlighted the comfortable lives of Chinese call centre scam suspects and alleged…
Read More » - Thailand News
Chinese New Year spending in Thailand hits 51 billion baht
Public expenditure during the Chinese New Year is projected to reach 51.78 billion baht, marking the highest level in five years, according to recent government estimates. Sasikan Wattanachan, deputy government spokesperson, noted that this figure signifies a 4.5% rise compared to the previous year. It is also the first occasion since the Covid-19 pandemic that spending for Chinese New Year…
Read More » - Lifestyle
Poppy: Moo Deng’s overseas pygmy hippo competition
It seems as if the adorable Moo Deng, an A-lister at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, has found herself some competition over the pond at the Metro Richmond Zoo in Virginia, USA. It has been a few weeks now since the newborn pygmy hippo, Poppy, made her introduction to the world, and just like Moo Deng, people simply can’t get…
Read More »
