Thailand Video News | Thailand Flip-Flops on Cannabis Laws Again, Syphilis Cases Triple Among Thai Teens
Today’s Thailand Video News, Alex and Jay covered news from across Thailand and Southeast Asia countries. The stories include the government reversing its stance on cannabis laws once more, a tragic accident in Pattaya where a Chinese tourist fell from a baht bus, and a fatal police error mistaking a stroke victim for a drunk. Social tensions are highlighted by a teenager being attacked after a Facebook dispute, while public health concerns rise as syphilis cases triple among Thai teens and pregnant women. Environmental challenges persist with heavy rain expected amid monsoon and storm warnings. Meanwhile, international incidents see 14 Indians rescued from forced cybercrime in Cambodia and an oil tanker involved in a collision detained in Malaysia.
Thailand Flip-Flops on Cannabis Laws Again
Thailand’s cannabis laws face another twist as Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul pushes for legislation to legalize marijuana for medical use. This shift contradicts recent re-criminalization proposals, creating confusion. Initially, Thailand decriminalized marijuana in June 2022, leading to a surge in recreational use. Anutin’s party supports regulation for health and economic benefits, not recreation. Despite the boom in the cannabis sector, the government aims to regulate its use strictly for medical purposes. New regulations may take effect from January 2025, banning unlicensed possession and sale of high-THC cannabis parts. Residents should stay updated with TMD forecasts and exercise caution.
Chinese Man Dies After Falling Off Baht Bus in Pattaya
A Chinese man, Chi Fai Lam, died after falling from a baht bus in Pattaya. The driver, Thongchai Thonglueng, denied knowing about the incident despite witnesses shouting for him to stop. Security footage showed Thongchai speeding away after the man fell. Locals condemned Thongchai’s behaviour, and he was later questioned by police. Thongchai claimed he was unaware of the man falling and did not see him board the bus. The police have not disclosed the next steps in their investigation or potential legal actions against Thongchai.
Police Misinterpret Stroke as Drunk Leading to Man’s Death
A Thai man, Krit, died from a stroke after crashing multiple times in Bangkok, initially accused of drunk driving by police, delaying his treatment. Krit’s girlfriend, Manao, revealed he had stroke symptoms and called her for help. Despite her warnings, police detained Krit for nearly two hours without medical assistance. Krit was eventually taken to the hospital, but it was too late, and he died three days later. Manao and a non-profit organization, Saimai Survive, blame police negligence and seek accountability. The police have not yet responded to the accusations.
Teen Attacked by Neighbor After Unfriending on Facebook
A 14-year-old girl in Thailand was assaulted by a neighbour after unfriending them on Facebook. The neighbour, previously aggressive over kratom juice sales, stormed into the girl’s home and attacked her. The family, facing ongoing threats, sought help from activist Kan Chom Phalang. The incident was reported to Bang Phli Police Station, with police promising full cooperation and increased patrols for the girl’s safety. The perpetrator, identified and with a history of drug offences, filmed the assault and shared it publicly. Legal actions are underway, with the severity of charges pending a medical assessment of the girl’s injuries.
Syphilis Cases Triple Among Thai Teens, Fivefold Increase in Pregnant Women
The Department of Disease Control (DDC) in Thailand reported a sharp rise in sexually transmitted diseases, particularly syphilis. Cases among teenagers have tripled, and among pregnant women, they have increased fivefold. The incidence of syphilis in Thailand doubled from 2018 to 2023, with significant increases noted this year. DDC spokesperson Weerawat Manosutthi highlighted the risk of contracting HIV and stressed the importance of using condoms, regular blood tests, and early prenatal care for pregnant women to prevent transmission. The rise points to increased unsafe sexual activity among Thai people.
Thailand Braces for Heavy Rain Amid Monsoon and Storm Warnings
The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) has issued a warning for heavy rain over the next ten days due to a strong monsoon and an approaching tropical storm. From July 23 to 27, the rain will slightly decrease but persist in monsoon-affected areas like Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Chanthaburi, and Trat. From July 28 to August 1, rainfall will increase again due to the strengthening monsoon and a low-pressure system over northern Thailand. Two tropical storms, Gaemi and Prapiroon, are present but not expected to directly impact Thailand. Residents should stay updated with TMD forecasts and exercise caution.
14 Indians Duped into Becoming Cybercriminals in Cambodia Rescued
Fourteen Indians were rescued from cybercrime operations in Cambodia, facilitated by leads provided by the Indian embassy. The embassy has successfully aided in the rescue and repatriation of over 650 Indian citizens trapped in job scams. The recent victims are being cared for by an NGO in coordination with Cambodia’s Ministry of Social Affairs. The embassy continues to work closely with Cambodian authorities to expedite their return to India and advises Indian nationals to exercise caution with job offers in Cambodia and report any suspicious activities.
Oil Tanker That Fled Collision Site Detained in Malaysia
A supertanker, Ceres I, which fled the scene of a collision with the Singapore-flagged tanker Hafnia Nile, was detained by Malaysian authorities near the Bertam floating oil terminal. The Sao Tome and Principe-flagged Ceres I had turned off its tracking system after the accident and was found in Malaysian waters with two tugboats. The tanker was empty at the time but is known for carrying Iranian oil. The collision resulted in minor oil spill traces. Investigations are ongoing, and the vessels will be towed to a safe location. All crew members are safe, and Hafnia Nile’s stability is being monitored.
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