Thailand video news | Chiang Mai tops global air pollution rankings amid regional fires, Java’s sinking coast displaces residents
In today’s Thailand news update, Alex and Jay bring the latest headlines from across the region. Thai authorities arrested four foreign nationals at Samui Airport for smuggling 110 kg of cannabis, just a day after another major bust. Meanwhile, Chiang Mai has topped the global air pollution rankings due to cross-border fires, sparking health concerns. In entertainment, Kim Soo-hyun’s past badminton controversy resurfaces amid an underage dating scandal. Police in Suthisan shut down an illegal gambling den, while the European Parliament condemns Thailand’s Uyghur deportations. Elsewhere, a massive fire devastated a fabric warehouse in Phnom Penh, and Java’s sinking coastline forces Indonesia to plan a 700km sea wall. In aviation, Ho Chi Minh City’s new airport terminal aims to ease congestion as it prepares to open in May.
British, Romanian, Dutch Nationals Arrested in Samui Airport Cannabis Bust
Samui International Airport authorities arrested four foreigners—two British, one Romanian, and one Dutch—smuggling 110 kg of cannabis buds in suitcases bound for Hong Kong, the UK, and Germany. This follows a similar bust the day before, where five other foreigners were caught with 144 kg. Officials suspect an organised smuggling ring, as both groups claimed they were lured with free trips to Thailand. With nine arrests and 254 kg seized in 48 hours, police are intensifying efforts to track the masterminds.
Chiang Mai Tops Global Air Pollution Rankings Amid Regional Fires
Chiang Mai now has the world’s worst air quality due to widespread agricultural and forest fires in Myanmar and Laos. While Thailand reduced its hotspots, Myanmar recorded over 1,000, worsening pollution in northern provinces. PM2.5 levels in Chiang Mai have hit hazardous levels, prompting health warnings. Meanwhile, central, eastern, and southern Thailand report safe air. With an AQI of 168, Chiang Mai residents are urged to stay indoors. Officials face growing pressure to tackle cross-border pollution.
Kim Soo-Hyun’s Badminton Scandal Resurfaces Amid Dating Allegations
Kim Soo-hyun’s 2014 “badminton incident” in Thailand has resurfaced amid an underage dating scandal. A former event organiser confirmed he played at Siam Paragon during a fan meeting but denied claims he demanded a court be set up. The controversy reignited after a viral post accused staff of being pressured to clear the venue at night. Meanwhile, Kim faces allegations of dating actress Kim Sae-ron when she was 15, which his agency denies, insisting they were only together after she became an adult.
Police Raid Illegal Gambling Den in Suthisan, Arrest 19
Thai police raided an illegal gambling den in Suthisan, arresting 19 people, including organiser Vichanon, for running a hi-lo dice game. Acting on a tip-off, officers stormed a rented room in Huai Khwang district, seizing gambling equipment. The suspects admitted guilt and were taken to Suthisan Police Station for legal action.
European Parliament Condemns Thailand’s Uyghur Deportations
The European Parliament condemned Thailand’s recent deportation of Uyghur detainees to China, citing human rights concerns. Lawmakers urged Thailand to halt forced returns, grant UNHCR access, and ensure transparency. The EU is also pressuring Thailand through free trade talks to reform lese-majesty laws and release political prisoners. With 482 votes in favour, the motion signals rising international scrutiny.
Major E-Cigarette Distributor Arrested in Thailand Crackdown
Thai police arrested Nopthanarong, a major e-cigarette distributor linked to a Chinese financier. The 56-year-old, previously jailed for drug offences, was tied to a March 7 raid that seized 30,000 e-cigarettes. Arrested on March 14 under a Nonthaburi court warrant, he admitted to handling payments but denied ownership. Police seized a Mercedes-Benz and continued tracking the operation’s ringleaders. E-cigarettes remain illegal in Thailand.
Warehouse Fire in Phnom Penh Destroys Fabric Stockpile
A massive fire engulfed a fabric warehouse in Phnom Penh’s Kambol District on March 15 at 8 p.m., causing extensive damage. Deputy Governor Sok Penhvuth led firefighting efforts, but the cause remains unknown. Authorities are investigating.
Java’s Sinking Coast Displaces Residents, Indonesia Plans 700km Sea Wall
Java’s northern coast is sinking due to land subsidence and rising sea levels, forcing communities like Semonet to relocate. Pekalongan and Semarang are also severely affected, with some areas sinking up to 26 cm per year. President Prabowo Subianto has proposed a 700km sea wall, but experts doubt its feasibility due to high costs and long timelines. Meanwhile, cities are investing in flood defences, though many fear time is running out.
PNP Prepared to Enforce Future ICC Arrest Warrants
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is ready to assist Interpol if the International Criminal Court (ICC) issues further arrest warrants linked to former President Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war. PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo confirmed that after Duterte’s arrest on March 11 for alleged crimes against humanity, they have a process in place for future cases. While no new warrants have been reported, the PNP remains on standby.
HCMC Airport’s New Terminal to Handle 80% of Domestic Flights
Tan Son Nhat International Airport’s new Terminal T3 will take over all domestic flights for Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air starting in May, easing congestion at Terminal T1. Other domestic carriers will remain at T1, while T2 will continue handling international flights. The $431.2 million terminal, spanning 112,500 sq.m, will open after trial runs from April 28 to May 4. A new access road is also set to open by the end of April. With T3, the airport’s capacity will rise to 50 million passengers annually, making it Vietnam’s largest domestic terminal.
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