Thailand video news | Substandard steel blamed for Bangkok tower collapse, Pregnant woman rescued from Myanmar quake rubble
In Thailand video news, Alex and Jay report on major developments across the region. Investigations into the Bangkok tower collapse reveal substandard steel from a Chinese-owned factory, raising safety concerns. Meanwhile, PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra reassures the public that the incident was isolated, with authorities conducting thousands of building inspections. In Phuket, a speedboat explosion injures six, sparking calls for stricter safety measures. Other stories include a violent attack on a transwoman in Pattaya, the arrest of an Israeli man for assault in Koh Samui, and Bangkok’s partnership with Airbnb to provide free housing for earthquake victims. Additionally, AI-generated earthquake hoaxes spread online, China censors discussions on the Bangkok tower collapse, and Cambodia delays 2025 work permits. Finally, a pregnant woman’s miraculous rescue from Myanmar’s earthquake rubble brings a glimmer of hope amid ongoing devastation.
Substandard Steel Blamed for Bangkok Tower Collapse
A Bangkok office tower collapsed during the March 28 earthquake due to substandard steel from a Chinese-owned factory shut down in December. Tests confirmed Xin Ke Yuan Steel Co.’s materials failed safety standards. The Rayong-based factory had already closed over safety concerns. The half-built tower was the only Bangkok structure to fall, killing at least 12. Authorities are now investigating the steel’s origin, the ITD-CREC construction joint venture, and the potential misuse of Thai nominee shareholders.
PM Reassures Public on Bangkok Building Safety
After a Bangkok tower collapsed in the March 28 earthquake, PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured the public the incident was an isolated case, not a sign of widespread structural risks. She pledged a full investigation while highlighting Thailand’s strict building standards. Of 13,000 recent inspections, only two buildings were deemed unsafe. Italian-Thai Development PCL, part of the project’s joint venture, expressed regret and vowed cooperation. Authorities are considering criminal charges, though blacklisting remains uncertain. The government aims to restore global confidence in Thai infrastructure.
Phuket Speedboat Explosion Injures Six
A speedboat explosion near Koh Mai Thon, Phuket, injured six, including foreign tourists. The Thana Marine 555 caught fire after engine trouble during a snorkelling tour. Most passengers were already in the water, but the captain and a crew member suffered burns, while others were hit by debris. Maritime officials and the Thai Navy responded swiftly, but the boat was destroyed. The incident has raised concerns over Thailand’s boat safety, prompting officials to promise stricter enforcement and a full investigation.
Drunk Guard Attacks Transwoman on Pattaya Beach
A drunken off-duty security guard allegedly smashed a beer bottle over a transwoman’s head on Pattaya Beach, leaving her hospitalised. The attack on Malata, witnessed by tourists, happened on March 31. Police arrested the guard, 42-year-old Wasan, and another man, Weerawat, at the scene. Witnesses claim they had verbally harassed Malata before the assault. A bystander’s video is now key evidence. Police are waiting for Malata’s recovery before proceeding with formal charges.
Israeli Man Arrested for Assaulting Finnish Tourist
Thai police arrested Israeli national David Eisa, 36, at Phuket Airport for allegedly sexually assaulting a 19-year-old Finnish woman in Koh Samui. The attack occurred on March 29 after he reportedly lured the intoxicated victim to a beachside area and forced sexual acts despite her protests. She later filed a police report, leading to an arrest warrant. Authorities detained Eisa as he attempted to flee Thailand. The investigation is ongoing, with further charges pending forensic results.
Bangkok, Airbnb Offers Free Housing to Quake Victims
Bangkok and Airbnb.org are providing 2,000 free nights of accommodation for earthquake victims, rescue workers, and volunteers. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration announced the initiative on March 31, helping those displaced by damage or evacuation. Over 200 people have already received aid. Airbnb.org, which connects people with free housing during crises, has supported over 250,000 people globally since 2020. Eligibility will be determined by city officials, with no charges for these stays.
AI Earthquake Hoaxes Mislead Millions
AI-generated fake videos of Myanmar’s deadly 7.7-magnitude earthquake are misleading millions online. Dramatic but false clips of collapsing bridges and city chasms have gone viral, often featuring still crowds, unnatural movements, or AI tool watermarks. Despite real devastation, these hoaxes distort public perception. Experts urge users to verify content as AI-driven misinformation becomes harder to detect and spreads faster during crises.
China Censors Bangkok Tower Collapse Discussions
China is deleting online discussions about the collapse of a Chinese-built skyscraper in Bangkok during Myanmar’s 7.7-magnitude quake. The building, constructed by China Railway No. 10, has sparked concerns over Chinese-led projects abroad. Media reports and social media posts on the collapse vanished quickly, reflecting a familiar censorship pattern. Experts warn the incident could damage China’s Belt and Road reputation in Southeast Asia, prompting countries to rethink partnerships with Chinese firms.
Cambodia Delays 2025 Work Permits for Foreigners
Cambodia’s Labour Ministry has postponed issuing 2025 work permits for foreigners until April 30, 2025, due to a backlog of extension applications. Foreign nationals and employers must apply via the official website before the deadline. Failure to comply will result in fines under the Labour Law. Authorities urge businesses and foreign workers to follow the new timeline to avoid penalties and ensure smooth processing.
Pregnant Woman Rescued From Myanmar Quake Rubble
Rescue teams saved a pregnant woman trapped under Myanmar earthquake rubble for 91 hours, a rare survival story. Her rescue followed that of a 63-year-old woman, bringing hope amid devastation. In Bangkok, crews continue searching the collapsed 30-storey State Audit Office building, where 13 are confirmed dead and dozens remain missing. A US-supplied sensor detected 70 potential survivors, but only six have been confirmed as human remains. Rescue teams face delays due to thick concrete, pancaked floors, and missing blueprints.
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