Thailand Video News | Building collapse death toll, Burger King fire, Lewd Pattaya shoot
In today’s roundup for Friday, April 11, we’re tracking the biggest headlines making waves across Thailand and Southeast Asia. A fire in Phuket damaged a Burger King and several motorbikes, while tragedy strikes in Bangkok as the death toll from a building collapse continues to rise. In Pattaya, a Chinese couple’s explicit photo shoot sparks public outrage and legal consequences. Meanwhile, a well-known Russian YouTuber faces charges in the Philippines, and Thai officials issue warnings ahead of Songkran celebrations. We also cover a heroic cobra rescue in Satun, a world-record dance attempt in Chiang Mai, a fatal fire at a cooking school in Singapore, and major developments in US-Vietnam trade relations.
Bangkok Building Collapse: Death Toll Rises to 23, 71 Missing
A tragic building collapse in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district has claimed 23 lives, with 71 people still missing two weeks after a powerful 8.2-magnitude earthquake near Mandalay, Myanmar triggered the disaster. Rescue operations continue amid challenging conditions. Heartbreakingly, one father has stood vigil for 13 consecutive nights, awaiting news of his 17-year-old daughter, whose first day of work coincided with the tragedy. Volunteers provide basic amenities to families near the site as the incident highlights the devastating human toll of disasters.
Phuket Fire Destroys Motorbikes, Damages Burger King Sign
An early morning electrical fire in Phuket caused chaos today as flames engulfed two motorbikes and damaged the signage of a Burger King on Kata Road, Karon. Believed to have started from an electrical short circuit on a power pole around 5.35am, the blaze quickly spread, destroying two bikes and damaging two more. Although no injuries were reported, the incident reignited safety concerns about Phuket’s overcrowded utility poles tangled with cables. Emergency responders swiftly extinguished the fire, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause and extent of the damage.
Thai Youths Warned Against Racy Songkran Selfies and Alcohol Pics
Thai authorities have issued a firm warning to young people ahead of the Songkran water festival, cautioning against posting inappropriate selfies and alcohol-related images online. Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukul Pruksanusak emphasised that posting revealing or suggestive photos, alcohol promotion, or immoral content could lead to severe penalties, including jail terms and substantial fines. Authorities stress the importance of celebrating respectfully, reflecting traditional Thai values, and caution that one inappropriate upload could result in serious legal consequences. The warning highlights the fine line between festive fun and legal violations during Thailand’s popular celebrations.
Snake Handler Saves Satun Family from Giant King Cobras
A prominent snake handler, Bang Ya Bongla King, rescued a family in Satun province after two giant king cobras built a nest and laid 29 eggs near their rubber plantation. The snakes, measuring 4 metres and 3 metres, had halted the family’s rubber-tapping activities since March. Assisted by rescue volunteers, Bang Ya successfully relocated the snakes and their eggs, allowing the family to safely return to work. The incident sparked community excitement and relief, highlighting the complex relationship between local livelihoods and wildlife. Similar cobra relocations previously occurred in Songkhla, emphasising ongoing challenges with wildlife coexistence.
Chinese Couple Arrested for Explicit Public Photo Shoot in Pattaya
Pattaya police have arrested a Chinese tourist couple after they were caught filming an explicit photoshoot on a public pavement in broad daylight. Mr Jiang, 67, and Miss Ping, 35, were reported by community security volunteers and quickly detained by Tourist Police. Jiang, a photographer, admitted staging nude shoots at various global tourist spots and claimed ignorance of Thai law, apologising for causing offence. The couple now faces legal proceedings, highlighting the need for tourists to respect local laws and customs when abroad.
Chiang Mai Aims for World’s Largest Fingernail Dance Record
Chiang Mai is preparing to make history by staging the largest-ever traditional fingernail dance, with over 20,000 performers gathering at the iconic Three Kings Monument on April 19. Celebrating the city’s 729th anniversary, the event will showcase the graceful Lanna “fon leb” dance, characterised by brass fingernail extensions and vibrant costumes. Organisers hope the spectacle promotes Chiang Mai’s cultural heritage globally, boosts local tourism, and supports its UNESCO World Heritage bid. The event will also feature an alms-giving ceremony involving 729 monks, symbolising each year of Chiang Mai’s rich history.
Australian Girl, 10, Dies in Singapore Cooking School Fire
A tragic fire at the Tomato Cooking school in Singapore has resulted in the death of a 10-year-old Australian girl, with more than 20 others injured. The blaze broke out early Wednesday, forcing several people onto a third-floor ledge. Rescuers, including construction workers, helped evacuate those trapped. Preliminary investigations indicate the fire began in a storage area and revealed potential fire safety violations within the building. Australian authorities are providing consular support to the grieving family. Tomato Cooking expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasising cooperation with ongoing investigations into the tragedy.
US, Vietnam to Begin Trade Talks as Major Tariffs Paused
The US and Vietnam have agreed to initiate discussions for a new trade agreement, following the US decision to pause previously planned tariffs, including a significant 46% levy against Vietnam. After a meeting in Washington, both countries committed to reducing non-tariff barriers to boost bilateral trade. Despite this, a 10% blanket tariff on most US imports will continue. Vietnam also announced aviation deals: Vietjet secured $300 million from AV AirFinance, and Vietnam Airlines reached a $560 million agreement with Citibank, both aiming to expand their operations and reduce Vietnam’s substantial trade surplus with the US.
Russian YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy Arrested in the Philippines for Harassment and Theft
Russian prank YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy was arrested in the Philippines for harassment, public disorder, and attempted theft committed during livestream videos. Authorities detained him in Pasay City after footage surfaced showing aggressive interactions with locals, theft of small items, and disruptive behaviour. Instead of immediate deportation, Philippine officials decided to prosecute Zdorovetskiy locally to underscore respect for their laws. Police are now searching for his Filipino cameraman, who may also face charges for assisting in these incidents. The case highlights the Philippine government’s firm stance against disrespectful behaviour by foreign nationals.
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