Thailand video news | Phuket tourist bus plunges into Ravine, 100 arrested in Philippine online scam raid
A series of incidents across Southeast Asia have made headlines, ranging from tragic accidents to controversial policy debates. In Phuket, a tourist bus plunged into a ravine, injuring nine passengers, while authorities in Chumphon discovered grenades and machine gun rounds near an election unit. Meanwhile, Thailand is preparing for the repatriation of five hostages recently freed by Hamas. Elsewhere, a Thai senator’s call for the death penalty for drug offenders has sparked heated debate, and Indonesia has introduced a voluntary four-day workweek to enhance work-life balance. In Cambodia, Phnom Penh launched a pedestrian-friendly ‘Walk Street’ along the Riverside, drawing public interest. Other reports include arrests in cases of online scams, domestic violence, and a fugitive finally captured after 18 years on the run.
Phuket Tourist Bus Plunges Into Ravine, Injuring Nine
A tourist bus in Phuket plunged about 20 metres into a ravine off Karon Hill on 1 February, injuring nine people—five men and four women from China, Germany, Russia, and Thailand. Emergency teams rushed them to Patong Hospital for treatment. According to preliminary dash-cam evidence, the driver, identified as 49-year-old Mr. Wira, lost control at high speed, veered off the road, destroyed the crash barrier, and tumbled into the ravine. Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the accident.
Explosives Found Near Election Unit in Chumphon
Three grenades and nearly 100 machine gun rounds were discovered just 50 metres from an election unit in Chumphon province on February 1. A worker accidentally kicked a suspicious bag while cutting palms, revealing the explosives. Authorities secured the area and called in the EOD unit, which found three South Korean-made practice grenades and 82 rusted machine gun rounds. The explosives were safely detonated at the site. Police are investigating their origin, as the area has previously hosted Cobra Gold military exercises.
Thai Hostages Freed by Hamas Set for Repatriation
Five Thai hostages recently freed by Hamas after 15 months in captivity are set for repatriation from Israel. Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and Chief of Defence Forces General Songwit Noonpakdee arrived in Tel Aviv on February 1 to oversee their return. The released hostages are undergoing medical evaluations at Al-Shamir Medical Centre, with assessments expected to take 8-10 days. Thailand is coordinating with Israel on compensation and repatriation efforts. Maris expressed gratitude to Israel, Qatar, Egypt, Iran, and Turkey for their roles in securing the hostages’ release.
Civil Servant Arrested for Filming Police in Restroom
A civil servant from Udon Thani was caught secretly filming two police officers in a restroom at a petrol station in Khon Kaen on February 1. Upon inspection, police found numerous restroom videos on his phone, along with a list of online group members and evidence in his vehicle. Identified as a Tambon Administration Organisation director, he had been selling the footage on X, Line, and Telegram for 250 baht per member. He confessed to doing this for over a year and now faces charges related to obscene content distribution.
Man Arrested After 18 Years for Crime Involving a Minor
A 37-year-old man, Apichat, was arrested in Lop Buri after evading authorities for 18 years. In 2006, he invited a 17-year-old girl, Bee, on a trip to Bang Saen Beach, later convincing her to continue drinking at his home, where he was accused of inappropriate conduct. A warrant was issued for his arrest, but he fled the area. On February 2, police finally tracked him down. Apichat has since confessed and is now in police custody for legal proceedings.
Thai Senator’s Death Penalty Proposal Sparks Debate
Thai Senator Amat Ayuken sparked controversy by proposing the death penalty for drug offenders, with executions televised to deter crime. Citing Singapore as a model, he argued that harsher laws would reduce drug-related offences. While ten senators supported his stance, others, including Senator Angkana Neelapaijit, condemned it as a violation of human rights. Critics argued that enforcing existing laws and targeting major drug networks would be more effective. Despite opposition, some members of the public backed the idea, with calls to extend severe penalties to other serious crimes.
Indonesia Adopts Voluntary Four-Day Work Week
Indonesia’s Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises has officially implemented a voluntary four-day workweek after a successful pilot. Employees who meet the 40-hour weekly requirement in four days can take an extra day off, up to twice a month, with approval. The initiative aims to improve work-life balance and reduce stress, particularly among younger workers. While still under evaluation, it may expand to state-owned firms. The concept is gaining traction globally, with Belgium, Japan, and the UK adopting similar policies to enhance productivity and employee well-being.
Phnom Penh Launches ‘Walk Street’ Along Riverside
Phnom Penh’s new ‘Walk Street’ initiative had a successful trial opening along the Riverside, attracting locals, tourists, and dignitaries. Governor Khuong Sreng led officials on a walk from Chaktomuk Conference Hall past the Royal Palace to Wat Phnom. The trial will continue every Saturday and Sunday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM along Sisowath Avenue, offering a pedestrian-friendly experience in the heart of the city.
Man Arrested for Slapping Wife Over Chicken Rice Errand
A man in Kota Warisan was arrested after slapping his wife in public for returning late from buying chicken rice at a shopping mall. A viral 29-second video captured the incident, prompting police action. The suspect later took his wife and child to Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, before abandoning them and fleeing. He was later found sleeping in his car and arrested on February 1. The court has approved a three-day remand for further investigation.
100 Arrested in Philippine Online Scam Raid
Philippine authorities arrested around 100 people in Manila’s Makati district during a raid on an online scam operation posing as a lending agency. The suspects targeted victims via social media, offering high-interest, collateral-free loans before harassing those who couldn’t repay. Victims faced threats, public humiliation, and even reports of suicides due to the harassment. The raided company, Wewill Tech Corp, allegedly used personal data and family photos for blackmail. Authorities suspect links to banned online gaming operators and are investigating the owners’ nationalities.
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