Thailand video news | Taxi driver slashes passenger in Bangkok, Japan’s ‘Cuddle Cafes’ combat loneliness
In today’s Thailand video news, Alex delivers a comprehensive roundup of stories from across Thailand and Asia. From a shocking altercation in Bangkok’s Silom district to a human skeleton discovery in Chon Buri, the coverage highlights key incidents making headlines. Other stories include an update on Thailand’s weather warnings, the lifting of Phuket’s building restrictions, and a lawsuit by Leicester City’s Thai owners. Regional news spans protests in China, South Korea’s air crash investigation, and Japan’s unique “Cuddle Cafes.” Stay tuned for the latest updates and insights on these compelling stories.
Taxi Driver Slashes Passenger in Bangkok
A taxi driver in Bangkok’s Silom district was restrained by bystanders after slashing a passenger’s face during a heated argument on January 11. The altercation left the passenger with a 10-centimetre wound requiring 32 stitches. Quick intervention by other passengers and delivery riders prevented further harm, and police took all parties for questioning. The incident, first reported by “Social Hunter 2022,” has raised safety concerns among netizens, with calls for stricter penalties and a review of driver regulations to protect passengers and uphold Thailand’s image.
Human Skeleton Found in Chon Buri Suitcase
A human skeleton found in a suitcase near Huai Yai Road in Chon Buri on January 11 has sparked a police investigation. The suitcase, discovered by construction workers after a vehicle breakdown, contained bones believed to have been there for over three months, along with clothing items. Police found no blood or bodily fluids, suggesting the bones were dry when placed in the suitcase. Forensic analysis will be conducted to identify the individual and determine the cause of death. Authorities are tracing the suitcase’s origins as the investigation unfolds.
Photographer Arrested for Obscene Content on OnlyFans
A 46-year-old photographer, known as Thanakrit or “Ohm,” was arrested in Bangkok for distributing obscene content on OnlyFans, earning over 2 million baht. The arrest followed a complaint from a model who claimed coercion and later discovered her images online. Police seized devices containing explicit material linked to his account. Thanakrit admitted to running the operation for three years. He faces charges under Thailand’s Criminal Code and Computer Crime Act. Authorities urge models and agencies to verify photographers and prioritise safety during shoots to prevent exploitation.
Leicester City’s Thai Owners Sue Over Helicopter Crash
The family of late Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha has filed a £2.15 billion lawsuit against Italian helicopter maker Leonardo SpA over the 2018 crash that killed Vichai and four others. The claim alleges a critical design flaw in the AW169 helicopter’s tail rotor, identified as the crash’s cause in a 2023 UK investigation. Despite regulatory compliance, the family argues Leonardo failed to implement or disclose a crucial design modification that could have prevented the tragedy. Vichai’s son, Aiyawatt, called the lawsuit a step toward accountability and improved safety for global helicopter operators.
Phuket Lifts 80-Meter Building Restriction
The Thai Cabinet has lifted Phuket’s 80-meter building restriction, now allowing single-structure developments up to 140 meters above sea level in Zone 6. This change benefits high-altitude landowners but excludes coastal areas, the Nakkerd Range, and Phuket Town. New regulations require pre-2017 land titles, single structures under six meters high, and at least 70% green space. Safety concerns like landslides and flooding necessitate environmental impact assessments. Land values above 80 meters have surged, attracting luxury developments. Experts warn of environmental risks and urge strict enforcement to balance growth and sustainability.
Thailand Faces Temperature Drop and Heavy Rain
Thailand’s Meteorological Department warns of a temperature drop from January 12-13, with northern and northeastern regions cooling by 1-3°C and Bangkok by 1-2°C. A strong high-pressure system from China is driving the cooler weather and stronger winds. The south faces heavy rain and high sea waves, reaching 2-4 meters in the Gulf of Thailand and 2-3 meters in the Andaman Sea. Mariners are advised to avoid sailing in stormy areas, and residents should prepare for cooler weather and fire hazards. Updates are available on the TMD website and hotline.
Uyghurs in Thailand Fear Deportation to China
A group of 43 Uyghur men detained in Thailand for over a decade faces possible deportation to China, sparking fears of persecution, imprisonment, or death. The detainees, held under harsh conditions, refused to sign voluntary deportation papers, recalling the forced repatriation of 109 Uyghurs in 2015. Activists and family members urge intervention, citing international law protecting against deportation to countries where torture is likely. Discussions reportedly align with Thailand-China diplomatic anniversaries, with concerns over muted global backlash. Despite asylum applications, access by the UNHCR remains blocked, leaving detainees in limbo as calls for alternative solutions grow louder.
Protests Erupt in China After Student’s Death
Violent protests erupted in Shaanxi, China, after the death of a teenage student, Dang, at Pucheng Vocational Technical School on January 2. Authorities ruled his death an accident, but allegations of a cover-up have spread on social media, fuelled by claims of deleted phone photos and signs of a struggle. Protesters clashed with riot police, throwing objects and smashing glass, while police responded with force. The incident has revived fears of unrest following China’s 2022 “White Paper” protests. Human rights groups and Dang’s family reject the official account, calling for transparency.
South Korea Air Crash Recorders Missing Final Minutes
The South Korean transport ministry revealed that flight data and cockpit voice recorders from the Jeju Air crash on December 29 stopped recording four minutes before impact. The crash, which occurred at Muan International Airport, killed 179 people, making it the deadliest air accident on Korean soil. Investigators are analysing why the recorders failed, with former experts suggesting a total power loss. Key questions include the role of potential bird strikes, weather conditions, and why the Boeing 737-800’s landing gear wasn’t deployed during the crash landing. The recorders are now being examined by U.S. safety regulators.
Japan’s ‘Cuddle Cafes’ Combat Loneliness
Japan’s “Cuddle Cafes” provide companionship to combat loneliness, allowing customers to hug or gaze at strangers for fees starting at ¥1,000 (US$6). With strict social norms and increasing disinterest in relationships—45% of women and 25% of men aged 16-24 avoid sexual contact—many young Japanese struggle with intimacy. Tokyo’s Soineya cafe charges ¥3,000 (US$19) for a 20-minute nap or ¥50,000 (US$320) for an overnight stay, offering services like lap rests and comforting conversations. Critics warn these cafes may deepen social isolation, but supporters find solace in the brief emotional connection. Such businesses reflect Japan’s growing demand for unique emotional support.
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