Thailand video news | Phuket tightens immigration controls amid crime wave, Cambodia deports 119 Thai call centre workers
In today’s Thailand video news, Alex and Jay bring updates on key developments across Thailand and Southeast Asia. In Pattaya, a Danish tourist declined hospital treatment after a stabbing incident, hindering police investigations. Meanwhile, Phuket tightens immigration controls amid a rise in crime, and Thailand faces global backlash over the controversial deportation of Uyghur detainees. Other headlines include the arrest of a Japanese man for drug possession in Bangkok and a crackdown on illegal foreign makeup teachers. Beyond Thailand, Cambodia deports Thai call centre workers, Indonesia sees a $7.5 billion opportunity in waste management, Vietnam seeks Japan’s help for its first radar satellite launch, and Malaysia finally captures an elusive black panther after a three-year search.
Danish Tourist Declines Hospital Treatment After Stabbing in Pattaya
A 22-year-old Danish tourist, Daniel, was stabbed on February 28 on Chalerm Phrakiet Road but refused hospital treatment and police assistance. Despite heavy bleeding from arm and head wounds, he declined to press charges or share details. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage, though his lack of cooperation hinders the investigation.
Phuket Tightens Immigration Controls Amid Crime Wave
Phuket is cracking down on illegal employment and drug-related crimes. In 2023, officials deported 998 foreigners and revoked 194 visas. Authorities now work with consulates to screen new arrivals for warrants, blacklists, or insufficient funds. The crackdown targets unauthorized foreign tour guides, with violators facing arrest, deportation, and lifetime bans. In January, Phuket saw 800,000 foreign tourists and detained four internationally wanted criminals.
Japanese Man Arrested with Ecstasy in Bangkok Mall
Thai police arrested Masato Omichi, 31, in a Bangkok shopping centre on March 1 for possessing four ecstasy tablets. Acting on a tip-off, officers found him behaving suspiciously near a restroom. Omichi admitted buying the drugs to experiment but was detained before use. A urine test showed no other substances. He now faces drug possession charges.
Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Foreign Makeup Teachers
Authorities are targeting foreign workers in restricted professions, focusing on unlicensed makeup teachers. In Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon area, officials detained two Chinese nationals illegally working as makeup instructors. They face legal action, while their employer risks fines of up to 200,000 baht and potential hiring bans. The Department of Employment urges the public to report illegal foreign labour.
Cambodia Deports 119 Thai Call Center Workers
Cambodia deported 119 Thais involved in a Poipet-based scam call centre after raids on February 22-23. Thai police received them at the Aranyaprathet border. Authorities confirmed they entered Cambodia illegally for online fraud but were not tricked or held captive. The operation is part of a broader cybercrime crackdown involving Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia.
Vietnam Seeks Japan’s Help in Launching First Radar Satellite
Vietnam urges Japan to fast-track the launch of LOTUSat-1, its first home-built radar satellite, set for 2025. Developed with Japan’s Official Development Assistance, the satellite will enhance disaster prevention, climate monitoring, and resource management. Weighing 600kg, LOTUSat-1 uses advanced radar to capture images day and night, even in cloudy conditions.
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