Thailand Video News | Phuket Portuguese Topless Pandemonium, Scorching heat sparks severe storm warnings
In this Thailand video news, Alex delves into the news stories across Thailand. Beginning with the Prime Minister proposes Bangkok for Formula One, Chinese parents reunite after a “Virtual Kidnapping” scam, a heatwave triggers thunderstorms in 26 provinces, unlicensed crypto exchanges face blocks, a Thai transwoman is fined for assault, and chaos ensues at a Phuket hotel as a Portuguese guest struts topless, refusing to pay.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Proposes Hosting Formula One in Bangkok to Boost Tourism
Thailand’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, is advocating for Bangkok to host a Formula One street circuit race, aiming to strengthen the country’s appeal as a key tourism destination. His administration, already focusing on entertainment and sports to attract affluent tourists, sees potential economic benefits, including significant job creation and increased tourist numbers. Srettha’s efforts align with wider economic strategies, such as becoming an aviation and logistics hub and extending tourist stays through festivals and events. The proposed F1 race could generate considerable economic value and bolster Thailand’s position in global tourism and sports, complementing existing initiatives like visa waivers and potential plans for integrated entertainment complexes.
Chinese Parents Reunite with Daughter in Bangkok Following “Virtual Kidnapping” Scam
In a distressing case of virtual kidnapping, Thai police successfully reunited a Chinese couple with their daughter, who was falsely reported as kidnapped and taken to Thailand. Initially studying in Australia, the 22-year-old woman was manipulated into traveling to Bangkok, where she was coerced by scammers into extorting 40 million baht from her parents under the pretense of securing her safety for a fabricated legal violation. The scam unfolded with the woman disappearing for days, making controlled contacts for ransom, and moving between various locations under threats. Thankfully, Thai police located her in Bangkok, and she was safely reunited with her parents, who decided not to pursue legal action after confirming her safety. This incident highlights a troubling rise in virtual kidnapping schemes targeting Chinese students abroad.
Heatwave Triggers Thunderstorm Warning Across 26 Provinces in Thailand
The Meteorological Department of Thailand has issued a storm warning for 26 provinces due to severe heat, with temperatures anticipated to hit 41 degrees Celsius. A low-pressure system from intense heat in upper Thailand is expected to cause isolated thundershowers and strong gusts. Residents are advised to avoid prolonged outdoor activities and stay vigilant against storm-related dangers. Additionally, the Andaman Sea and the lower south are experiencing increased rainfall and rough sea conditions, prompting warnings for mariners. This weather pattern is also causing dust and haze accumulation in the northern, northeastern, and central regions, impacting air quality. The forecast predicts continued high temperatures and localised thunderstorms across various regions of the country.
Thailand to Block Unlicensed Crypto Exchanges to Combat Online Crimes
Thailand is set to block unlicensed cryptocurrency exchanges as a measure to curb money laundering and other online crimes. This decision, inspired by similar actions in India and the Philippines, was announced by the Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Secretary-General Pornanong Budsaratragoon. The Thai SEC will soon provide a list of these unlicensed entities to the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. Crypto investors are urged to withdraw funds from non-compliant platforms and to verify the licenses of exchanges using the SEC Check First application. The regulatory move highlights a global trend of increasing oversight on crypto transactions to ensure compliance with local laws and to protect investors from potential scams.
Thai Transwoman Fined for Assaulting Foreigner in Pattaya Bar Dispute
A Thai transwoman, Saksit Wichaikattaya, was fined after assaulting a foreign man at a Pattaya bar due to a dispute over a service fee. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of April 16, led to significant disturbances and financial losses at the Soi Bua Khao establishment. Saksit hurled a glass bottle at the man, resulting in his injury and the swift departure of other patrons. Captured on CCTV, her actions prompted a police intervention. Saksit, who claimed the assault was provoked by the foreigner’s refusal to pay for services rendered, faces a fine under Thai criminal law for her conduct, which has also negatively impacted Pattaya’s reputation as a tourist destination.
Chaos at Phuket Hotel as Portuguese Guest Struts Topless, Refuses to Pay Bills
A Portuguese woman, Nadiya Serivna Varshawa, caused uproar at a Phuket hotel by walking around topless and failing to settle her accommodation and food bills. This behavior, reported by the Phuket Times on April 21, has prompted warnings to local hotels about her. Nadiya, known for previous incidents including a refusal to pay a taxi fare and threatening behavior, has been identified by authorities as having a mental illness. Despite her family’s attempts to intervene, she has continued her disruptive actions, leaving a trail of unsettled debts and public disturbances. Thai social media users and local authorities are increasingly concerned about her ongoing presence and the lack of decisive action to address her behaviour.
