Thailand video news | Grenade attack at Thailand fair leaves 3 dead, 48 injured, Remaining ‘Bali Nine’ members return to Australia after 19 years
In Thailand video news today, Alex brings viewers the latest stories from Thailand and across Asia. News stories include a tragic grenade attack at a fair in Tak province, a chaotic drunk driving incident in Pattaya, and a dramatic balcony rescue of a German man. Other key reports cover a Saudi couple’s harrowing Jet Ski ordeal, a British man arrested for tourist robberies, and allegations of child abuse involving a teacher in Prachin Buri. From South Korea’s presidential impeachment to Singapore’s controversial execution practices, and the return of the “Bali Nine” members to Australia, the news extends into significant developments across Asia. The U.S. Navy’s first Cambodian port call in eight years also highlights evolving regional dynamics.
Grenade Attack at Thailand Fair Leaves 3 Dead, 48 Injured
A grenade attack at the Amazing Highland Land Fair in Tak province left three dead and 48 injured late last night. The explosion occurred near a crowded stage, sparking panic among over 8,000 attendees. Police identified the suspects as a Thai national and a Karen National Union member, targeting a rival group over a past feud. Emergency responders quickly transported victims to the hospital. The incident has prompted heightened nationwide security and a review of public event safety protocols. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed condolences and called for urgent action.
Drunk Driver Causes Chaos in Pattaya, Injures Two
An intoxicated driver caused chaos in Pattaya, crashing a minivan into a motorcycle sidecar selling vegetables on Pattaya Beach Road. Attempting to flee, the driver collided with several parked vehicles, injuring two people, including a vegetable vendor. Bystanders detained the visibly incoherent driver, whose blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit. Police and rescue teams responded, transporting the injured to the hospital. The driver, approximately 30 years old, faces legal proceedings for the incident.
German Man Rescued from Balcony Incident in Pattaya
Pattaya rescue workers saved a distressed 58-year-old German man who attempted to harm himself and jump from a fifth-floor hotel balcony on Soi Pattaya Beach Road 13. The dramatic incident unfolded on December 14, with rescue teams intervening to restrain the man and provide first aid for severe head injuries before rushing him to the hospital. Hotel staff, alerted by loud shouting, forced the door open to find the man at the balcony edge. Police are investigating the incident, while the man receives medical care. The quick response likely prevented a tragedy.
Saudi Couple Rescued After Jet Ski Capsizes Off Jomtien Beach
A Saudi couple faced a life-threatening situation when their Jet Ski capsized off Jomtien Beach, leaving them stranded at sea for five hours. Alamri Abdulrahman Mahdi swam to shore to seek help, prompting rescue teams to locate his wife, Alamri Atheer Saeed, floating 2 kilometres offshore. Both were wearing life vests, which kept them buoyant. The couple’s emotional reunion on the beach drew applause from onlookers, highlighting the rescue team’s quick response and efforts.
British Man Arrested for Robbing Tourists in Pattaya
A 31-year-old British man, identified as Jordan, was arrested in Pattaya for stealing jewellery from tourists. CCTV footage captured him snatching necklaces in two incidents: an Iranian tourist on December 8 along Soi Buakhao and an Indian tourist near Soi Yen Sabai, the latter valued at over 200,000 THB. Police arrested Jordan at his Bang Saray residence on December 13 after identifying him through his distinctive tattoos and muscular build. He remains silent on the charges, while authorities pursue his accomplice. Jordan faces up to five years in prison or a 100,000 THB fine for the crimes.
Thai Teacher Accused of Striking Child with Steel Ruler
A Thai mother in Prachin Buri accused a teacher of striking her 3-year-old son’s penis with a steel ruler, causing severe injury. The boy revealed the alleged punishment occurred after he tore his book in class. Medical examinations confirmed bruising and inflammation, contradicting the teacher’s claim that the injury happened outside school. Despite filing a police complaint, delays arose due to pending medical documentation. Classroom security footage reportedly showed no evidence, and the teacher claimed the incident happened on a school holiday. The mother has turned to the media to seek justice as investigations continue.
South Korean President Impeached Over Martial Law Declaration
South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached by parliament after declaring martial law on December 3, suspending him from office until the Constitutional Court rules on his case. The controversial move, which involved sending soldiers to block lawmakers, sparked nationwide protests and accusations of treason. Yoon’s martial law declaration aimed to break political gridlock but was widely condemned as an anti-democratic power grab. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is now acting president, while investigations into Yoon and his administration continue. The court’s decision, expected within six months, will determine Yoon’s political fate amid growing national turmoil.
Singapore Executes Iranian-Singaporean Despite Activist Protests
Singapore has executed nine individuals in 2023, including Masoud Rahimi Mehrzad, an Iranian-Singaporean convicted of drug trafficking, despite international opposition. Activists, like the Transformative Justice Collective (TJC), highlight the emotional toll on death row inmates and their families while facing government crackdowns under the controversial POFMA law, which forces corrections on anti-death penalty posts. Rights groups condemn these actions, accusing the government of silencing dissent. Singapore maintains that capital punishment deters drug trafficking, but campaigners argue it perpetuates injustice, vowing to continue their fight despite mounting pressure.
Remaining ‘Bali Nine’ Members Return to Australia After 19 Years
The remaining five members of Australia’s “Bali Nine” drug smuggling ring have returned home after 19 years in Indonesian prisons. The repatriation, facilitated by diplomatic efforts, included Matthew Norman, Scott Rush, Martin Stephens, Si Yi Chen, and Michael Czugaj. Arrested in 2005 for attempting to smuggle over 8 kg of heroin, their return reflects strong Australia-Indonesia ties. While Indonesia granted no pardons, the men will continue rehabilitation in Australia. Two ringleaders were executed in 2015, and others were released or passed away earlier. The transfer agreement is reciprocal, allowing for future prisoner exchanges.
US Navy Warship to Make First Port Call in Cambodia in 8 Years
A U.S. Navy warship, the Savannah, will dock in Cambodia’s Sihanoukville port from December 16-20, marking the first such visit in eight years. The port call aims to enhance U.S.-Cambodia ties, despite tensions over human rights concerns and Cambodia’s naval cooperation with China. The visit will include meetings with officials, a working session with Ream Naval Base commanders, and joint sports activities between U.S. and Cambodian naval crews. While Cambodia denies allowing foreign military bases, the U.S. remains wary of China’s activities at Ream, a nearby base critical to regional strategic interests.
