Thailand News | Thai man dies in detention after arrest for assaulting ex-girlfriend, Foreign tourists caught in Lewd Act video at Pattaya beach

Thaiger VideoPublished: February 18, 2026, 11:39 AM

56 4 minutes read

Today we will talk about several major stories making headlines across Thailand and the region — including a Thai man who died in police detention after his arrest for assault, a series of controversial incidents involving foreign tourists in Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya, and the arrest of four Myanmar nationals over the fatal attack of an American man in Bangkok. We’ll also look at Indonesia’s US$7.62 billion Ramadan stimulus package and whether it can truly boost economic growth.

Thai Man Dies in Detention After Arrest for Assaulting Ex-Girlfriend

A Thai man arrested in Bangkok for violently assaulting his former girlfriend tragically died inside a police detention room shortly after being taken into custody. The altercation began when the suspect allegedly attacked his ex-partner during a domestic dispute, prompting nearby residents to call the police. Officers arrived, arrested the man and placed him in a detention facility while processing the case. Before charges could be fully laid, he collapsed in the holding area and was rushed to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Authorities are investigating the cause of death, including whether it resulted from underlying health issues, substance influence, injuries sustained during the altercation, or conditions in the detention cell. Police have said they will release findings once medical examinations are complete and coordinate with the prosecutor’s office on the assault allegations involving his ex-girlfriend.

Foreign Women in Bikinis at Phuket Temple Fair Trigger Online Debate

A group of foreign women attending a traditional temple fair in Phuket stirred online debate after they were photographed and filmed wearing bikinis or revealing swimwear within the festival grounds — a setting many locals consider inappropriate for a religious or cultural event. Traditionalists argued that such attire shows disrespect for sacred spaces and cultural norms, while others defended personal freedom and tourism diversity, noting that Phuket attracts many beach-oriented visitors. Temple organizers declined to enforce a dress code, but some community leaders took to social media to remind visitors about respecting cultural contexts and modesty when attending temple fairs. The discussion highlights ongoing tensions between preserving local traditions and accommodating global tourism behaviour, with local tourism authorities urging mutual respect and awareness of cultural sensitivities.

Foreigners Caught on CCTV Stealing Statue from Chiang Mai Pub

In Chiang Mai, CCTV footage captured two foreign men stealing a decorative statue from the outdoor patio of a popular pub. The video shows the suspects approaching the statue late at night, lifting it and carrying it away as they walk down a nearby street. Pub staff reported the incident to police, who used the CCTV footage to identify and track the suspects through additional cameras in the area. Authorities later detained the men, who are understood to have admitted they removed the statue as a “souvenir,” not fully realising it was private property. Both face criminal charges for theft and property damage. The case has prompted several bars and restaurants in Chiang Mai to review their outdoor displays and security measures to protect décor and prevent similar incidents involving visitors.

Four Myanmar Nationals Arrested in Bangkok for Fatal Attack on American Man

Four Myanmar nationals have been arrested in Bangkok in connection with a fatal assault on an American man. The incident occurred after a confrontation in a nightlife area, where the victim was reportedly attacked during an altercation with the group. Bystander footage and witness accounts helped local police establish the suspects’ identities, leading to a coordinated arrest warrant and subsequent detention. The American man later died from injuries sustained in the attack, intensifying pressure on authorities to resolve the case quickly. Police say the motive appears linked to a personal dispute that escalated violently, though exact details remain under investigation. All four suspects are now in custody facing charges related to murder or serious assault, and Thai authorities are coordinating with the U.S. embassy to keep the victim’s family informed.

Foreigners Jump on Moving Car and Damage It in Pattaya

A group of foreign visitors in Pattaya was caught on video jumping onto a moving car and damaging it while travelling on a busy road. The viral footage shows the individuals climbing onto the vehicle’s roof and sides as it drove, causing dents and scratches. Motorists around them honked and recorded the stunt before police arrived and intervened. Pattaya police later located the group, confiscated their passports, and interviewed them regarding reckless behaviour, property damage, and public endangerment. They now face legal action under Thai traffic and public safety laws, with possible fines and penalties. The incident has sparked online commentary about reckless tourist conduct and road safety — particularly in nightlife zones — and authorities reiterated that dangerous stunts will be dealt with firmly.

Foreign Tourists Caught in Lewd Act Video at Pattaya Beach

Video footage circulated widely showing foreign tourists engaging in a lewd act on Pattaya Beach, igniting public concern about public decency and the enforcement of morality laws in Thailand’s famous beachfront. The clip shows two tourists inappropriately displaying intimate behaviour in broad daylight while beachgoers and passersby looked on. Pattaya police confirmed they had received reports and were reviewing evidence to identify the individuals involved. Under Thai law, obscene acts in public places are punishable by fines and possible detention. Authorities said they will pursue charges if the suspects can be located and identified, and reminded both residents and visitors that public spaces are governed by behavioural standards designed to protect community norms and family-friendly tourism environments. Tourism officials expressed concern that such incidents, if unchecked, could harm Pattaya’s reputation and urged increased vigilance by local businesses and security personnel.

Indonesia’s US$7.62 Billion Ramadan Stimulus — Will It Really Boost Growth?

Indonesia has announced a US$7.62 billion Ramadan stimulus package aimed at boosting household spending and supporting the economy during the country’s busiest festive season. The government hopes cash transfers, subsidies, and spending incentives will help families cope with high living costs and drive short-term consumption, which is crucial for Indonesia’s growth. Economists say the stimulus may provide a temporary lift for retail and services, but warn its overall impact could be limited unless deeper economic challenges — such as inflation, weak global demand, and slow investment — are addressed. Despite these concerns, officials expect the package to strengthen consumer confidence and inject momentum into the economy during the Ramadan and Eid period.