Thailand video news | Floods in northern Thailand leave two dead, hundreds stranded, Typhoon Yagi leaves over 140 dead in Vietnam
In Thailand video news, Alex covers the news stories in the Good Morning program. The latest news from Thailand and Southeast Asia brings a range of critical stories, from severe flooding in northern Thailand that has left two dead and hundreds stranded, to new developments in the mishandling case of Red Bull heir Vorayuth Yoovidhya. A Thai woman seeks justice after her husband’s suspicious death, while a Chinese man accuses his Thai wife of fleeing with 100 million baht in assets. In politics, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces an ethics probe over a controversial gesture. Meanwhile, the remastered release of the classic Thai horror film Shutter is stirring excitement, and Indonesia’s controversial practice of temporary marriages is drawing scrutiny. Across the region, Typhoon Yagi has devastated Vietnam, and in the Philippines, new sexual abuse allegations have emerged against celebrity preacher Apollo Quiboloy.
Floods in northern Thailand leave two dead, hundreds stranded
Heavy rains in northern Thailand, worsened by Typhoon Yagi, have caused severe flooding and mudslides, leaving at least two people dead and hundreds stranded. The storm has impacted around 9,000 households. In Chiang Mai province, flash floods have claimed lives, while in Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district, rubber boats couldn’t reach some flooded areas, leaving residents waiting for rescue. Helicopters are set to evacuate those stranded and deliver aid. The storm has also devastated Vietnam, killing 143 people and forcing evacuations near Hanoi’s Red River.
Seven-month trial scheduled for Red Bull heir’s hit-and-run mishandling case
The trial for mishandling the 2012 hit-and-run case involving Red Bull heir Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya has been scheduled for seven months. Eight defendants, including former police chief Somyot Poompanmoung and deputy attorney-general Nate Naksuk, have pled not guilty to manipulating evidence, particularly the speed of Vorayuth’s car, which was crucial in dismissing charges. Prosecutors have prepared 30,000 pages of evidence and 21 witnesses. The trial starts on December 3, and all defendants are out on bail. Vorayuth fled Thailand in 2017, with one charge still active until 2027.
Thai woman seeks justice after husband’s death ruled accidental
A Thai woman in Chon Buri is seeking justice after her husband, Nattaphon Chantaphum, died in a suspicious incident ruled as an accident. Nattaphon allegedly died after a physical altercation at a water vending machine, but his wife, Chutikarn, believes he was murdered by three men, possibly hired by his former employer, who was upset about his new business. Chutikarn has submitted evidence, including CCTV footage and voice recordings, to the Crime Suppression Division (CSD). She disputes the police’s conclusion and accuses the suspects of staging the incident.
Chinese man accuses Thai wife of fleeing with lover and 100m baht in assets
A Chinese man, Ken, is seeking justice after his Thai wife left him, taking over 100 million baht in assets. Ken, who has a two-year-old son with his wife, discovered that she had been taking valuables and money during his trips to China. She eventually asked for a divorce under the guise of running for parliament. Ken later found out she had a secret lover, who claimed to be her husband and owner of their home. Ken plans to file a theft complaint with the help of a lawyer to reclaim his lost assets.
Thai PM faces ethics probe over hand gesture
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces an ethics investigation for making a mini-heart gesture while in her civil service uniform. Serial petitioner Ruangkrai Leekitwattana claims this act violated constitutional sections related to ethics and dignity. He has asked the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to probe the matter, potentially leading to a lifetime political ban if found guilty. The gesture, made during a photo session with Cabinet members, has sparked mixed reactions from the public, while other political figures continue to target Paetongtarn and the Pheu Thai Party.
Classic Thai horror film Shutter returns in 4K
The Thai horror classic Shutter is returning in a 4K remastered version to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Directed by Banjong Pisanthanakun and Parkpoom Wongpoom, the film, released in 2004, became a global hit for its unique use of photography to amplify supernatural horror. Shutter follows Tun and Jane, whose lives unravel after a hit-and-run, leading to eerie ghostly encounters. Known for its shocking twist, where the ghost has been haunting Tun by clinging to his back, Shutter remains a standout in the genre. The directors kept the film’s original raw quality, despite modern advances in technology.
Sex tourism in Indonesia exploits temporary marriage loophole
In Indonesia’s Puncak region, nikah mut’ah or temporary Islamic marriages have become an economic lifeline for women. One woman, Cahaya, entered her first such marriage at 17, earning a fraction of the dowry. These marriages, often arranged by brokers, provide financial relief in poverty-stricken areas but are illegal under Indonesian law. Despite the legal risks, the practice thrives, drawing Middle Eastern tourists. Many women feel trapped, unable to escape due to economic hardship, with little legal protection or government intervention. Cahaya, like others, continues to rely on these marriages despite the emotional toll.
Typhoon Yagi leaves over 140 dead in Vietnam, threatens Hanoi with floods
Typhoon Yagi has devastated northern Vietnam, leaving at least 143 people dead and forcing thousands of residents near Hanoi’s Red River to evacuate due to rising floodwaters. The storm caused landslides, including one that buried an entire village in Lao Cai province, killing 16 people. Schools in Hanoi have closed, and homes near the river have been submerged. The typhoon also damaged factories, disrupting supply chains. Yagi, the most powerful typhoon in Asia this year, previously struck China and the Philippines, contributing to 24 additional deaths. Climate change is intensifying typhoons in the region.
Philippine police uncover more allegations against celebrity preacher Apollo Quiboloy
Philippine police have uncovered new sexual abuse allegations against celebrity preacher Apollo Quiboloy, revealing a disturbing pattern of crimes. Quiboloy, facing charges in the Philippines and the U.S. for sex trafficking, child abuse, and money laundering, was arrested after a search of his church compound. Victims, including girls as young as 12, have come forward, accusing him of manipulation and exploitation. Quiboloy, a friend of former President Rodrigo Duterte, denies the allegations. Authorities are continuing to build their case, with assurances of protection for victims. Quiboloy may face U.S. extradition after serving any Philippine sentence.
