Thailand Video News | Swiss man’s visa revoked in assault aftermath, Thai reporter acquitted of defamation charges in win for free speech
In this video, Alex and Jay dive into the latest headlines from across Thailand, offering insightful commentary and analysis on a range of pressing issues. Tune in as they discuss Swiss Man’s Visa Revoked Following Assault, Crackdown on E-cigarette and Vape Sales, Investigation Unveils Fake Diamond Scheme, and Thai Reporter Acquitted in Defamation Case.
A Thai reporter has been acquitted in a major anti-defamation case
In a significant verdict, reporter Chutima Sidasathian was acquitted of defamation by the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Court, a decision celebrated as a triumph for freedom of speech amidst a climate dominated by Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP). Chutima’s courageous reporting unveiled fiscal mismanagement within the Village Fund programme, implicating local officials in corruption, which led to the court upholding her right to report on wrongdoing in the public interest. Despite facing six more defamation charges, she remains undeterred, symbolizing the ongoing battle for press freedom in Thailand. This victory is not new to Chutima; she previously won a similar case against the Royal Thai Navy. However, the continued legal challenges forced the closure of her news outlet, Phuketwan. In related incidents, the untimely death of a journalist under mysterious circumstances and the sentencing of activist lawyer Arnon Nampa for defaming the monarchy under the lèse-majesté law highlight the perilous state of free expression in the country.
The Swiss national who went viral for all the wrong reasons has his visa revoked
The Immigration Bureau revoked the visa of Swiss national Urs Fehr following his involvement in the assault of a Thai doctor, Tarndao Chandam, near Yamu Cape in Phuket. The incident, which occurred on February 24, led to a public outcry after Fehr attacked Chandam as she sat outside his villa. Despite initially denying the assault and claiming an accidental fall, a self-recorded video contradicted Fehr’s account. Faced with public pressure, Fehr and his wife issued an apology, citing concerns over security as their reason for the confrontation. However, Chandam has pursued legal action against Fehr, who also faces scrutiny over his business, the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park, and his and his wife’s legal compliance concerning property and firearms ownership. The case has prompted broader investigations into illegal foreign businesses in Phuket. Following local demands for his expulsion, Fehr’s visa was officially revoked on March 6 by the Phuket Provincial Immigration Office, with the Immigration Bureau’s spokesperson citing Fehr’s actions as socially disruptive. Fehr now faces detention and possible further penalties, including a permanent ban from Thailand, pending the outcome of his legal challenges.
Fake gems and diamonds have crashed into the market, and the government is trying to fix it
Bangkok authorities have initiated a crackdown on the jewellery sector, targeting businesses, manufacturers, and distributors to protect tourists from fraudulent practices involving fake diamonds and counterfeit jewellery. This action involves collaborations between the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Tourist Police, the Department of Internal Trade, and the Gem and Jewellery Institute of Thailand. Inspections focus on certifications and product labels, urging adherence to standards and regulations to ensure authenticity and fair pricing. Violations could lead to imprisonment and fines, with a dedicated hotline and online portal available for consumer complaints. Concurrently, a robbery at a gold shop in Kamphaeng Phet by a debt-laden university student highlights ongoing challenges in the sector.
Thailand’s incredibly gray vape market will see a crackdown soon
A significant ‘Vape Operation’ spearheaded by Dr. Puangpetch Chunlaid, a Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, alongside relevant agencies, was executed in Bangkok on March 6, targeting major e-cigarette sales sources across various city areas, with an estimated worth of over three million baht. This crackdown, aimed at combating the distribution of e-cigarettes, particularly to minors and students, involved inspections of community areas, warehouses, and online sales platforms. The operation successfully raided 15 locations, resulting in eight arrests and the confiscation of over 10,000 illegal e-cigarette-related products. Dr. Puangpetch emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating e-cigarette sales near educational institutions and the importance of parental vigilance to protect minors from the harmful effects of e-cigarettes. Citizens are encouraged to report illegal sales through various channels, including a hotline and the Traffy Fondue app.
A Chinese woman’s stolen goods returned to her by police after only three hours
Thai police in Samut Prakarn province efficiently arrested a thief, Nikorn Maiwong, just three hours after he stole a bag containing 25,000 baht and various personal items from Ja Yanli, a Chinese tourist, near the Chorcher Hotel. The swift operation led to the recovery of all stolen items and the discovery of methamphetamine pills in Nikorn’s possession. Ja Yanli, who was visiting Thailand with 2,000 colleagues from a cosmetics company, initially felt her trip was ruined by the theft but was greatly impressed by the rapid response of the Thai police, restoring her positive perception of the country. Nikorn, who had recently been released from jail and had a history of theft, intended to use the stolen money to buy drugs and cover personal expenses. He now faces a significant prison sentence and fine for his crime, highlighting the effectiveness of the Thai police in protecting tourists and swiftly apprehending criminals.
