Thailand video news | American base jumpers in face legal backlash, Phnom Penh draws record new year tourists
In today’s Good Morning Thailand, Alex and Jay delve into compelling stories from Thailand and Asia, capturing the headlines that matter. From daredevil stunts by American base jumpers in Bangkok to a heated parking dispute escalating into vehicular violence in Pattaya, the drama unfolds across the Kingdom. They also cover international news, including Cambodia’s record-breaking New Year tourism and Vietnam’s declining birth rate. Meanwhile, high-speed chases, legal controversies, and cultural milestones offer a glimpse into the region’s vibrant yet complex narrative. Tune in as Alex and Jay bring you the latest from Thailand and beyond!
American Base jumpers in Face Legal Backlash
Three American daredevils are facing backlash after a viral TikTok video showed them base-jumping off the roof of Bangkok’s Emsphere mall. The stunt, which occurred on October 3, involved trespassing and a dramatic escape to Benjasiri Park on motorcycles. Identified as experienced base jumpers, Arman Kremer, Mateo Leo Massoni, and Blake Smith used an elaborate infiltration plan to access the rooftop. The mall has filed trespassing charges, and police have labelled the act reckless. In response, Emsphere has tightened security with rooftop cameras and 24-hour guards. Although the jumpers have left Thailand, legal action remains underway.
Pattaya Bus Driver Rams SUV in Parking Dispute
A parking dispute in Pattaya turned violent when a tour bus driver intentionally rammed a Bolt SUV after an argument with its driver, Mr. O. The altercation, captured on video, occurred on December 30 outside a North Pattaya hotel. The bus driver, frustrated over the SUV blocking his way, escalated the situation despite Mr. O moving his car to make room. Witnesses say the bus driver attempted a physical confrontation before ramming the SUV in a fit of rage. While the tour company agreed to cover vehicle damages, they refused to compensate Mr. O for lost income, with the driver dismissively stating he had no money.
Russian Tourists Injured in Pattaya Bus Crash
A bus carrying 37 Russian tourists to Pattaya crashed into a stationary Toyota Fortuner SUV at the Pong toll booth on January 2, injuring 27 passengers. Witnesses reported the bus veered unexpectedly, causing severe damage to both vehicles. Emergency responders quickly transported the injured to Pattaya hospitals, with several suffering broken bones but no life-threatening injuries. The remaining 10 passengers were safely transported to their hotel. Authorities suspect excessive speed or abrupt manoeuvres as possible causes, pending further investigation.
South Korean Man Arrested After High-Speed Chase
A South Korean man was arrested near Pattaya after a dramatic 100-kilometre high-speed chase ended in a fiery crash on Highway 36. The suspect, aged 35-40, flipped his pickup truck, which caught fire after colliding with a guardrail. Police extinguished the flames and discovered a bag of cash inside the vehicle. The chase began when the suspect attacked a woman on the motorway and fled, damaging multiple cars and evading authorities. The pursuit ended when a tyre burst, causing the truck to overturn. Despite attempting to flee on foot, the suspect was apprehended and faces legal action under Thai law.
Ex-Boxer Arrested After Fatal Punch
A former Thai boxer with a history of mental illness was arrested for fatally punching a security guard during a January 1 celebration in Sakon Nakhon. The suspect, 38-year-old Tum, attacked volunteer security guards, leaving one victim, Somchai, with fatal head injuries after falling unconscious and hitting the ground. Three others sustained minor injuries. Tum, arrested at his nearby home, appeared confused and refused to answer police questions. Witnesses reported he displayed uncontrollable strength during the attack. Known for prior drug use and mental health treatments, Tum may face charges under Section 297 of Thailand’s Criminal Law, carrying penalties of 6 months to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to 200,000 baht.
MP Questions Chinese Police Training Program
An MP from the People’s Party, Sasinan Thamnithinan, has questioned the Royal Thai Police (RTP) about a training programme for Chinese volunteer police, focusing on its legality, the 38,000-baht fee, and the issuance of identification cards with the national emblem. Conducted in collaboration with Siam University, the three-day training aimed to teach Chinese students about Thai law, but concerns arose over fee allocation and the use of official police insignia. The RTP clarified that their officers only served as lecturers and denied involvement in financial arrangements or the distribution of emblem-bearing items. However, Sasinan challenged the jurisdiction of the officers involved and questioned whether the programme exceeded its stated purpose.
Impeached South Korean President Resists Detention
Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faces possible detention after defying a corruption investigation into his martial law imposition on December 3. Yoon, rallying supporters outside his Seoul residence, vowed to resist “anti-state forces” and claimed police attempting to detain him could face arrest by his security service. The anti-corruption agency’s detainment warrant, valid for one week, comes amid legal challenges and heightened political tension. Thousands of Yoon’s supporters protested while critics accused him of inciting obstruction. If detained, investigators have 48 hours to decide his fate. The Constitutional Court deliberates whether to uphold Yoon’s impeachment, requiring six of nine justices to formally remove him.
Jakarta Police Director Dismissed Over Extortion Scandal
Senior Commissioner Donald Parlaungan Simanjuntak, Jakarta Metro Police’s Director of Drug Investigation, has been dishonourably dismissed for his role in an extortion scandal during the Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP) in December 2024. Allegations include ordering drug tests on Malaysian spectators and extorting Rp2.5 billion (over US$155,000). Lawmaker Abdullah supported the dismissal, citing strong evidence and urging transparency in the ongoing ethics hearings for other involved officers. He called for criminal penalties under extortion laws to restore public trust and address the damage to Indonesia’s global reputation. Proceedings for one implicated officer are set to resume this week.
Vietnam’s Birth Rate Hits Record Low in 2024
Vietnam’s birth rate hit a record low of 1.91 births per woman in 2024, continuing a downward trend below the replacement rate of 2.1 for the third year. This decline raises concerns about sustaining economic growth and managing a rapidly ageing population, projected to make Vietnam a “super-aged society” by 2049, with over 20% of the population aged 65 or older. Officials highlighted gender imbalances and called for improved healthcare and reproductive services to address the issue. The health ministry is drafting a population law for 2025 to stabilise fertility rates, proposing measures like encouraging childbirth before age 35 and removing penalties for having a third child.
Phnom Penh Draws Record New Year Tourists
Phnom Penh set a record with over 1.5 million visitors during New Year’s Eve celebrations, leading Cambodia’s nationwide total of 3.5 million tourists. The capital’s “Celebrating Cambodia” event showcased parades, performances, concerts, and fireworks, boosting its reputation as a cultural hub. Other provinces, like Preah Sihanouk and Siem Reap, also saw high turnout, while underdeveloped regions like Prey Veng and Kratie highlight growth opportunities. Tourism contributed significantly to the economy, with Angkor Wat ticket sales generating nearly $48 million in 2024, a 28% rise from 2023. Cambodia’s “BUILD plus 3Ds” strategy targets eco-tourism, cultural promotion, and improved infrastructure, alongside campaigns like Visit Siem Reap 2024.
