Thailand video news | Indian tourist injured in Pattaya convenience store assault, Phuket tourists criticised for risky tuk-tuk behaviour

Today on Thailand Video News, hosts Alex and Jay bring viewers up to date on significant stories from Thailand and beyond. The coverage includes an assault on an Indian tourist in Pattaya, highlighting safety concerns ahead of Thailand’s festival season, and a public health alert regarding Thailand’s diabetes crisis, affecting over 6.5 million citizens. Additional stories explore the crackdown on a major fraud ring, firework safety measures for Loy Krathong, and reassurance from Thai authorities on dismissed terror threat rumours in Koh Pha Ngan. Rounding out the headlines are updates on risky tourist behaviour in Phuket, recent deadly volcanic eruptions in Indonesia, Taiwan’s ongoing defence talks with the U.S., and the arrest of an American tourist for vandalism in Tokyo.

Indian Tourist Injured in Pattaya Convenience Store Assault

An Indian tourist, Mr. Anngad Chandhok, was assaulted outside a Pattaya convenience store after a dispute over a purchase. Following a verbal confrontation with store staff, he was reportedly pushed outside, where an unidentified man attacked him, causing serious injuries, including a fractured leg. Witnesses claim store employees escalated the conflict, allegedly calling in someone from outside to intervene. Police are investigating the incident, and reviewing CCTV footage to identify the assailant. With major festivals approaching, Pattaya Police emphasise restoring tourist confidence in the city’s safety.

Thailand’s Diabetes Crisis: Over 6.5 Million at Risk

The Public Health Ministry in Thailand has warned that over 6.5 million Thais, about 10% of the population, are at risk of diabetes, with most cases being preventable type 2 diabetes. Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin urges citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles, as 40% of those affected may not know they have diabetes. The ministry is promoting carb-counting and balanced diets through village health volunteers, emphasising low-sugar fruits, vegetables, and exercise. Dr. Panumas Yanwetsakul, Director-General of the DDC, highlights this year’s World Diabetes Day theme, stressing the need for diabetics to manage not just physical but also mental and social well-being.

Nigerian Leader of Thai Fraud Ring Arrested in 50M Baht Scam

Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) arrested a Nigerian national, identified as the leader of a fraud network responsible for scams using horse accounts, with damages exceeding 50 million baht. Known as “Operation Black Horse Down,” the crackdown targeted a gang of Thai and Nigerian nationals linked to romance scams, call centre fraud, and drug-related crimes, involving over 1,000 horse accounts. The DSI, with support from AMLO, detained six suspects and is working to track financial routes and seize assets. Under Thailand’s Cybercrime Act, those aiding in fraud may face severe penalties, including prison and fines.

Nakhon Ratchasima Firework Crackdown Aims to Keep Kids Safe for Loy Krathong

Ahead of this year’s Loi Krathong festival, police in Nakhon Ratchasima launched a crackdown on firework shops to protect children from dangerous explosives. Led by Police Colonel Anek Srikitrat and District Chief Chananan Khumkhong, officers inspected shops for proper licenses and safety standards. The focus was on preventing sales to minors and ensuring vendors advised parents about supervising young users. While all inspected shops met licensing and safety standards, officials emphasised the risks of unsupervised use by children, aiming for a safe festival experience for all, especially young ones.

Koh Pha Ngan Officials Dismiss Terror Threat Rumours

Thai police have dismissed rumours of a terror plot targeting Israeli visitors on Koh Pha Ngan, reassuring tourists of their safety. Despite warnings from Israeli authorities, Thai officials, including district chief Noppadol Khaomali and Police Colonel Panya Niratmanon, clarified that the claims lack any credible evidence. Security has been enhanced for the Full Moon Party and Loy Krathong festival, with joint patrols by police, military, and local officials ensuring a safe environment. Officials emphasised that tourists can enjoy festivities without worry, though Israelis are advised to remain vigilant.

Phuket Tourists Criticised for Risky Tuk-Tuk Behaviour

Thai netizens expressed outrage over foreign tourists engaging in risky behaviour on baht buses and tuk-tuks in Phuket, citing safety concerns. Photos shared by The Phuket Times showed tourists dancing and leaning out of vehicles stuck in traffic, sparking criticism toward local police for their lack of enforcement. While some commenters defended the tourists as wedding celebrants, others emphasised the potential dangers. Comments ranged from frustration over safety risks to resigned humour about the frequency of such incidents. So far, Phuket authorities and police have not issued any response.

Deadly Mount Lewotobi Eruptions Displace Thousands in Indonesia

A series of powerful eruptions from Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki on Indonesia’s Flores Island killed nine people and displaced over 10,000, affecting multiple villages. The volcano, one of 120 active in Indonesia, had been erupting daily since January, though its activity decreased recently due to a magma blockage that caused pressure to build. Indonesia’s “Ring of Fire” location makes it prone to volcanic and seismic activity, with deadly eruptions like Mount Marapi in 2023 and Mount Semeru in 2021 causing significant loss of life. Rescue operations continue, with displaced residents receiving aid and urged to avoid returning home.

Taiwan Engages U.S. in Defence Talks Without New Arms Requests

Taiwan does not have a specific list of new arms requests for the incoming U.S. administration but is eager to discuss defence improvements, according to senior security officials. Facing increasing military pressure from China, Taiwan’s government is considering a large U.S. arms package, emphasising its commitment to self-defence. The U.S., Taiwan’s main arms supplier, recently announced a nearly $2 billion missile system deal despite Chinese opposition. Taiwan’s defence spending has surged by 80% since 2016, and discussions with U.S. officials and think tanks continue to enhance military capabilities, including possibly expanding its drone fleet.

American Tourist Arrested for Vandalising Tokyo Shrine

Japanese police arrested 65-year-old American tourist Steve Hayes for allegedly scratching letters into a torii gate at Tokyo’s Meiji Jingu shrine, a sacred Shinto site. Hayes reportedly claimed it was a prank, inscribing a family member’s name on the gate. This incident follows another defacement at Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine, where graffiti was found earlier in the week. Japan has seen record tourism this year, boosting the economy but also raising local concerns over cultural disrespect. Police are investigating these incidents amid heightened awareness of shrine desecrations.

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