Thailand Video News | Heatstroke fatalities reach 30 as heat index reaches 52 degrees, Australians in Phuket gain easy access to visa services
In this Thailand video news, Alex covers a range of stories, from heatstroke deaths reaching 30 to a US Carrier Strike Group revisiting Thailand after three years. Other highlights include a Thai woman arrested for impersonating a neurosurgeon, visa services now accessible for Australians in Phuket, and the unveiling of an ex-Deputy PM’s luxury car collection worth 87 million Baht. Additionally, a massive python rescued from an Ayutthaya drainage pipe adds a touch of wildlife drama to the mix.
Thailand Heatstroke Deaths Reach 30 as Scorching Temperatures Continue
Thailand is currently grappling with a severe heatwave that has resulted in at least 30 fatalities from heatstroke this year, as reported by the health ministry. The country has been experiencing unprecedented temperatures, with Bangkok facing an “extremely dangerous” heat index exceeding 52 degrees Celsius. This heatwave is part of a larger pattern affecting parts of South and Southeast Asia, intensified by the El Niño weather phenomenon. Authorities are particularly concerned about the elderly and those with health issues, advising them to stay indoors and stay hydrated.
US Carrier Strike Group Revisits Thailand After Three Years
The US Carrier Strike Group, led by the USS Theodore Roosevelt, has returned to Thailand for the first time since 2018, anchoring at Laem Chabang for a routine port visit. This visit includes not only the flagship but also Carrier Air Wing 11 and ships from Destroyer Squadron 23. Rear Admiral Christopher Alexander highlighted the opportunity to strengthen the longstanding US-Thai naval friendship. The crew is also participating in community service events and exploring Thai culture, with special opportunities for Thai-American crew members to reconnect with their families.
Thai Woman Arrested for Impersonating Neurosurgeon and Scamming Over 1 Million Baht
In Bangkok, a 35-year-old woman named Suwanaumpha, also known as “Pla,” has been arrested for impersonating a neurosurgeon and defrauding over 1 million baht from medical staff, officials, and a romantic partner. The scam extended to a romantic relationship formed through Facebook, where she deceived her partner into believing she was a doctor at Ramathibodi Hospital, resulting in substantial financial loss. The total scam amount accumulated to 1,283,620 baht, mainly through deceit involving supposed medical emergencies.
Visa Services Now Easily Accessible for Australians in Phuket
Starting from April 29, Australians in Phuket have the convenience of accessing visa services locally, including the provision of biometrics, as announced by Australian Ambassador Angela Macdonald. This service, previously limited to Bangkok and Chiang Mai, is now extended to Phuket through the Australian Biometric Collection Centre managed by VFS Global. This initiative is part of a broader effort following the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit, where Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged significant funds to enhance visa accessibility for Southeast Asia.
Ex-Deputy PM of Thailand’s 87 Million Baht Luxury Car Collection Unveiled
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has disclosed the assets of General Prawit Wongsuwon, the former Deputy Prime Minister and chairman of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), revealing a wealth of 87 million baht including a collection of luxury cars. His declared assets include bank deposits of over 40 million baht, investments of 6.53 million baht, prime real estate valued at around 10 million baht, and luxury vehicles totaling 13.6 million baht. This disclosure comes amid earlier controversies, including a scandal over luxury watches and rings, which had previously put him under scrutiny.
Massive Python Rescued from Ayutthaya Drainage Pipe After Likely Cat Meal
In Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, a nearly four-meter-long python, bloated from a recent meal presumed to be a cat, was found trapped in a drainage pipe, leading to a dramatic rescue operation. The Ayutthaya Radio Centre was alerted by homeowners who discovered the large snake unable to move inside the pipe. After more than an hour, the python was successfully extracted to the relief of gathered onlookers. Following the rescue, local superstitions stirred discussions about the snake as a potential bringer of luck, with residents considering using the house number to bet on lottery numbers. The rescued python was safely relocated back to the wild.
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