Thailand video news | Newin rejects Thaksin’s casino plan amid social concerns, Police hunt suspects in assault and robbery of delivery rider
In today’s Thailand video news, Alex brings attention to pressing stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia. Key highlights include Newin Chidchob’s rejection of Thaksin Shinawatra’s proposal to legalise casinos, citing social concerns such as debt and addiction. Meanwhile, in Chiang Mai, a family seeks justice after a drunk Porsche driver’s lenient charges were met with public outcry. Additional stories feature police efforts to capture suspects in an assault and robbery case in Nonthaburi, and a murder investigation in Uthai Thani. Southeast Asia also faces critical developments, from Malaysia’s outrage over the killing of a beloved stray dog to Vietnam’s appointment of a new president amid political instability, and a growing political feud in the Philippines.
Newin Rejects Thaksin’s Casino Plan Amid Social Concerns
Newin Chidchob has rejected Thaksin Shinawatra’s proposal to legalise casinos in Thailand, citing concerns over debt and addiction. Thaksin, the father of current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, proposed casinos as part of entertainment complexes in tourist hubs like Bangkok and Phuket to boost the economy. Despite Newin’s opposition to casinos, he remains open to supporting entertainment projects that exclude gambling. This disagreement between the influential political figures is notable, especially as investigations into Thaksin’s influence over his daughter’s government are ongoing. The outcome could impact Thailand’s political and economic future.
Family Rejects Settlement in Drunk Porsche Driver Case
A family in Chiang Mai is seeking justice after 22-year-old Mr. Irfan Musa was severely injured by a drunk Porsche driver who offered a B200,000 settlement. Musa’s father, Mr. Suding Musa, believes the charges—reckless driving and drunk driving—are too lenient and is demanding attempted murder charges, which police have refused. The July 2024 accident left Musa with severe injuries, and his future as a physiotherapist in doubt. The driver’s lawyer proposed the settlement, but Musa’s family rejected it, vowing to fight for harsher penalties in court. Public concern over police handling of the case is growing.
Police Hunt Suspects in Assault and Robbery of Delivery Rider
Police are searching for two Thai men who allegedly staged a road accident in Nonthaburi and robbed 64-year-old food delivery rider Chaiyaporn Poonmode. The suspects demanded 5,000 baht in compensation, stole 1,500 baht, and assaulted him when he refused to pay. Chaiyaporn suffered a fractured bone near his eye and is at risk of blindness. Police are using CCTV footage to track the suspects. Chaiyaporn’s family is calling for justice as he recovers from his injuries.
Three Suspects Sought for Dumping Woman’s Body Near Cassava Farm
Police in Uthai Thani are searching for two women and a man suspected of dumping the body of an unidentified woman near a cassava farm. The body, found on October 20, showed signs of strangulation, with the victim’s hands and legs tied and concealed under a pink blanket. Witnesses saw a suspicious white van at the scene, and police are reviewing CCTV footage. Authorities are urging families with missing relatives to help identify the victim, as the body undergoes an autopsy.
Grilled Chicken Vendor Arrested for Gold Shop Robbery
Police arrested 41-year-old grilled chicken vendor Tawatchai Aromyim for robbing a gold shop in Nonthaburi, stealing two gold necklaces worth 87,000 baht. On October 19, Tawatchai visited the shop, tricked the worker, and fled with the necklaces on his motorcycle. He was arrested 40 minutes later at his home, where the stolen items were recovered. Tawatchai admitted to committing the theft to pay off his debts. He faces up to five years in prison and a fine under Section 336 of the Criminal Laws.
Bangkok Governor Supports Congestion Charge to Ease Traffic
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt supports the Transport Ministry’s plan to introduce a congestion charge for vehicles entering the city’s busiest areas to reduce traffic and encourage public transport use. The revenue will help fund a 20-baht flat fare for electric trains. However, Chadchart stresses that improvements to public transport infrastructure, including buses and pedestrian pathways, must come first. Inspired by models in London and Singapore, the congestion charge aims to reduce traffic and promote sustainable transport solutions.
Outrage in Malaysia After Beloved Stray Dog Shot
The killing of Kopi, a beloved stray dog in Malaysia, has sparked national outrage after the dog, known for her viral TikTok video playing with a kitten, was shot during a culling operation in Terengganu on October 6. Locals and animal rights activists are demanding justice, claiming that Kopi was cared for and posed no threat. Activists are planning to submit a memorandum advocating for humane treatment of strays. The hashtag #JusticeforKopi is trending on social media, with widespread calls for an investigation.
Vietnam Appoints New President Amid Political Turmoil
Vietnam has elected General Luong Cuong as its new president, following months of political instability. Cuong, 67, replaces To Lam, who remains the general secretary of the Communist Party, the country’s most powerful position. The presidency is largely ceremonial, but Cuong vowed to promote peace and independence. His appointment comes after the death of former party leader Nguyen Phu Trong and the anti-corruption campaign that shook Vietnam’s leadership. Critics warn Cuong’s appointment could lead to increased repression.
Political Feud Between Marcos and Duterte Risks Philippines’ Stability
A growing feud between Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr and Vice-President Sara Duterte-Carpio threatens to divert attention from urgent issues like rising hunger and economic instability. Duterte-Carpio’s harsh public attacks on Marcos, including a shocking beheading threat, have sparked social media backlash and concerns over political stability. Analysts warn that this power struggle between two dominant political dynasties could stall efforts to address poverty and hunger, with recent surveys revealing a sharp rise in food insecurity. As economic challenges persist, critics argue the feud harms the country’s ability to implement necessary reforms.
Shell Reports No Operational Impact After Oil Leak in Singapore
Shell reported that an oil leak occurred at its Energy and Chemicals Park in Singapore’s Bukom Island over the weekend but stated there was no impact on operations or supply. Approximately 30-40 metric tonnes of a slop mixture (oil and water) leaked into the sea. The leak has been stopped, and clean-up efforts are underway with relevant authorities. This comes after Shell shut down a crude distillation unit for maintenance in August, which was expected to end in October. Earlier this year, an oil spill near Singapore also affected beaches on Sentosa Island.
