Thailand video news | Brit beaten by Thai bar girls over unpaid bill, Three British nationals arrested for cocaine smuggling in Bali
Today’s Good Morning Thailand brings a roundup of major stories from across Thailand and the region. The program covers a dramatic incident in Pattaya, where a British tourist was assaulted over an unpaid bill, as well as corruption allegations at Phuket Airport. In Pathum Thani, an LGBTQ protest erupted after a violent attack, while a Russian beauty queen faces detention in Thailand for overstaying her visa. Meanwhile, authorities continue a manhunt for a Malaysian mall shooter, and five Thai hostages return home after being freed by Hamas. From crime investigations to immigration crackdowns, today’s stories highlight significant developments across Asia.
Brit Beaten by Thai Bar Girls Over Unpaid Bill
A British tourist in Pattaya was beaten and thrown out of a bar after refusing to pay his bill, which included a 50% markup on drinks for the women he and his friend were entertaining. Furious bar staff and women attacked him with high heels, slapping and kicking him while demanding payment. Bleeding from a head wound, the man pleaded for mercy, but a bar manager ordered him out, shouting insults. A bystander tried to calm the situation before he was forced to leave. Pattaya, known for its raucous nightlife, has a history of similar incidents.
Phuket Airport Corruption Allegations Under Investigation
Phuket’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has not yet launched a formal investigation into four Airports of Thailand (AoT) staff accused of corruption, despite acknowledging misconduct. The case involves an 11.8 million baht contract for royal commemorative stickers, with procurement violations reported. Evidence collection is ongoing, but staff remain in their roles as suspensions require court approval. AoT previously announced internal disciplinary actions but has not disclosed punishments. Concerns arise over delays in providing documents and failure to formally notify the NACC. No timeline has been set for a potential investigation.
LGBTQ Protest in Pathum Thani After Violent Soup Attack
Over 500 LGBTQ protesters gathered in Pathum Thani after a university student was attacked with hot soup in a violent incident on February 7. The victim was reportedly forced to cut his hair, threatened, and assaulted while showering, prompting him to flee unclothed. Police arrested the perpetrators, who are also LGBTQ, and charged them with bodily harm. Activist Kan Jompalang condemned the attack, highlighting further reports of extortion and intimidation. Protesters demanded an apology, but the suspects showed no remorse. Authorities assured a thorough investigation, reinforcing their stance against violence.
Former Russian Beauty Queen Detained in Thai Immigration Center
Former Russian beauty queen Alexandra Tikhomirova, 23, has been detained in Thailand for overstaying her visa by 10 days. Held in harsh conditions in Pattaya, she may be transferred to Bangkok’s overcrowded Immigration Detention Centre (IDC), known for its poor conditions. Human rights advocates are alarmed as her family denies allegations of past legal troubles or escort work. Her case highlights Thailand’s strict immigration laws, with foreign nationals facing detention and deportation for overstays. Diplomatic intervention may be her only hope as concerns grow over the treatment of detainees in the Thai system.
Ugandan Woman Fakes Seizure to Evade Immigration Check-in Pattaya
A 39-year-old Ugandan woman, Irene Nakyanzi, faked a seizure on Pattaya Beach to evade an immigration check on February 7. Stopped during a routine inspection following online criticism of unruly tourist behaviour, she attempted to flee but was caught by officers. Authorities found she had overstayed her visa by 603 days since June 2023. After receiving medical attention, she was taken into custody and will face legal proceedings before deportation. The incident highlights Thailand’s strict immigration enforcement amid concerns over tourist misconduct.
Thai Hostages Return Home After Release by Hamas
Five Thai hostages released by Hamas returned home on February 9, arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport for emotional reunions with their families. Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sengiamphong praised the collaborative efforts that led to their safe return. While the hostages are physically healthy, concerns remain about their mental well-being after 15 months in captivity. The labour ministry will ensure their entitlements, and officials continue working to secure the release of the last remaining Thai hostage. Talks with Israel also aim to improve opportunities for Thai workers in the country.
Malaysian Police Hunt for Setia Alam Mall Shooter
A manhunt is underway for a Malaysian suspect in his 30s with 11 prior criminal records after a shooting at Setia City Mall in Selangor on February 8. The attacker fired multiple shots, injuring a cleaner before attempting to flee. He carjacked a Perodua Ativa at gunpoint and was dropped off near the Kesas Expressway. Police recovered over 10 bullet casings, and social media has been flooded with eyewitness accounts. The injured cleaner is in stable condition, while mall employees and patrons described moments of panic as they fled or sheltered during the attack.
Military Police Officer Kills 2, Injures 3, Then Takes Own Life
A military police officer in Cambodia’s Tboung Khmum province shot and killed his father-in-law and mother-in-law, seriously injuring his wife, brother-in-law, and a security guard before taking his own life. The attack carried out with an AK-47 on February 7, left three dead and three critically wounded. Authorities are investigating the motive, questioning witnesses, and examining the crime scene. The tragic incident occurred at the victims’ home, with no confirmed cause yet for the violent outburst.
Three British Nationals Arrested for Cocaine Smuggling in Bali
Three British nationals were arrested in Bali for allegedly smuggling nearly 1 kg of cocaine hidden in food packaging. JC, 37, and LE, 39, were caught at Ngurah Rai Airport on February 1 after customs officials detected suspicious items in their luggage. A controlled delivery led to the arrest of PA, 31, in Tuban. Authorities estimate the seized drugs’ value at Rp 6 billion ($368,665) and suspect prior smuggling incidents. During a police press conference, JC and PA were seen laughing, despite facing serious charges.
Kaohsiung Police Detain Suspected Serial Killer
A 73-year-old man in Kaohsiung has been detained for allegedly murdering three women. The suspect, Chang, was arrested after a 71-year-old woman, Chao, disappeared. CCTV footage showed him repeatedly disposing of bags in a river, where forensic experts later found Chao’s remains. DNA evidence linked two other missing women, including his sister-in-law, to the case. The suspect, previously convicted of rape, robbery, and theft, had been paroled from a life sentence. Police are still searching for the other victims’ bodies and the murder weapon, as the investigation continues.
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