Thailand Video News | Cannabis crusaders begin hunger strike over reclassification plan, Heightened security in Yala amid insurgent threats
In Thailand Video News today, Alex and Jay talk about the protestors involved in a hunger strike against the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic drug. Security in Yala is being increased after intelligence reports have indicated insurgent movement, and a soldier in Bangkok has murdered his girlfriend with a samurai sword. A Japanese tourist has driven his car into a popular Pattaya restaurant after having an argument with his girlfriend, and the Public Health Minister has ordered for improvements to be made to Thailand’s mental health hotline services. A of BLACKPINK’s Lisa Manoban has tattooed his head to show her his admiration. Two Australians and a Filipina were found murdered in a hotel in the Philippines, and the former Indonesian Agriculture Minister has been sentenced to prison for corruption and abuse of power.
Cannabis crusaders begin hunger strike over reclassification plan
Cannabis supporters began a hunger strike after the Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) agreed to reclassify cannabis as a Narcotics Category 5 drug. Removed from this category in June 2022, cannabis saw a business boom in Thailand. Concerns over misuse, especially among youth, led to reconsideration of its classification. The reclassification is expected by January 1, 2025. Protesters argue this move monopolizes profits and negatively impacts businesses. Activists Prasittichai Noonuan and Akkaradate Chatjinda, consuming only water and coconut water, vow to continue until the government listens. The Bhumjaithai Party supports controlled health-related cannabis use.
Heightened security in Yala amid insurgent threats
Security in Yala has been intensified due to intelligence reports of insurgent movements, with increased patrols and checkpoints in urban areas to ensure the safety of residents and tourists. Betong district chief Amorn Chumchuay ordered agencies to enhance security, deploying rapid response teams and establishing strategic checkpoints. Insurgent activity, led by a figure known as Kompi, is anticipated, with plans for bombings, ambushes, and harassment of local protection units between July 10 and July 20. These measures aim to counter potential attacks and maintain peace and stability in the region.
Soldier commits murder with samurai sword in Bangkok
A soldier in Bangkok murdered his girlfriend, Khemruthai, with a samurai sword. Police arrested 24-year-old Sunai, who stabbed the 30-year-old former housekeeper at the Thai Parliament in the chest. Sunai re-enacted the crime, revealing he attacked her while she was applying powder. After the murder, he calmly cleaned the sword, showered, changed into his military uniform, and left the apartment. Despite media attempts to question him, Sunai remained silent. He was taken to Sam Sen Police Station for further questioning.
Japanese tourist’s rampage causes havoc in Pattaya
A Japanese tourist went on a rampage in Pattaya, driving his car into a popular restaurant after an argument with his girlfriend, a staff member there. The incident on July 10 resulted in damaged cars and motorcycles, ending when the car collided with a tour bus. Police received a distress call at 9.36pm and arrested the 60-year-old man. The chaos left several people with minor injuries, and the suspect, suspected of drug use, was taken to the hospital under police supervision. The police are investigating and will press charges accordingly.
Public Health Minister enhances mental health hotline services
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has ordered an enhancement of mental health hotline services to address the intertwined issues of mental health and narcotics abuse. Visiting the Department of Mental Health, Somsak emphasized that 40% of psychiatric patients are affected by narcotics. He instructed the reassessment of budget allocation to improve access to treatment for 5 million psychiatric patients and urged for expedited approval of a legal amendment to fund treatments. A test of the current hotline system revealed inefficiencies, prompting Somsak to call for urgent improvements and better integration with police services. Additionally, plans to increase medical staff are being developed to address upcoming retirements.
Fan tattoos ‘Lisa Rockstar’ on head after music video shoot
A fan named Ratchakarn Nakphian tattooed “Lisa Rockstar” on his head to show his admiration for BLACKPINK’s Lisa Manoban after participating in the music video shoot for her song “Rockstar.” Initially unaware of the artist’s identity, he learned it was Lisa during the shoot, which left him thrilled. Impressed by her dedication, as she personally reviewed each take, Ratchakarn decided to commemorate the experience with the tattoo. He hopes to have Lisa sign his head if they meet again and plans to ink that signature alongside his tattoo.
Three killed in Philippine hotel incident
Two Australians and a Filipina were found murdered in a hotel in Tagaytay, Philippines. The victims were discovered with their hands and feet tied. The motive remains unclear as their valuables were not stolen. The victims include a man in his 50s, his Philippine-born Australian partner, and her Filipina relative. They were visiting the Philippines after a vacation in Bali and planned to return to Australia. A masked man seen on hotel security footage is a suspect. Local officials are investigating, and the remains will be flown to Australia and buried in the Philippines as requested by their families.
Former Indonesian Agriculture Minister sentenced for corruption
Former Indonesian Agriculture Minister Syahrul Yasin Limpo has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption, including extortion, abuse of power, and bribery involving ministry contracts. The case has damaged President Joko Widodo’s anti-corruption efforts, with five other cabinet members also convicted. Limpo was found guilty of enriching himself and others, using illicit funds for luxury items and political activities. He denied wrongdoing, claiming political persecution. Limpo must also pay a fine of 300 million rupiah or face additional imprisonment. Indonesia’s anti-graft commission, the KPK, continues to combat corruption despite political resistance.
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