Thailand video news | Parliament investigates collapsed billion-baht building in Bangkok, Thai influencer ‘Uncle Tony’ faces legal heat over pork video
On today’s Thailand video news update, Jay and Alex cover a wide range of critical stories—from a high-profile corruption investigation over a collapsed government building to a legal controversy involving a social media influencer. Other headlines include a temporary Nescafé ban, the debut of AI policing during Songkran, and regional developments involving China, Russia, and ASEAN neighbours. Here’s a summary of today’s top stories.
1. Parliament Investigates Collapsed Billion-Baht Building in Bangkok
Following an earthquake, a government building in Bangkok collapsed, prompting a corruption probe. Lawmakers summoned Auditor-General Monthien Charoenpol over concerns about substandard materials, luxury features like imported carpets and a mini-theatre, and bypassed budgeting protocols. Critics claim the State Audit Office misused funds and cut corners on safety. The incident reignites public frustration over deep-rooted corruption in Thailand’s public sector.
2. Thai Influencer ‘Uncle Tony’ Faces Legal Heat Over Pork Video
Influencer “Uncle Tony” caused uproar after posting a video of himself roasting pork in traditional Arab attire—an act viewed as offensive to Muslims. The Islamic Committee Office of Phetchabun is pursuing legal action, citing religious disrespect. Despite Uncle Tony’s apology and video removal, legal consequences may follow under Thai laws related to public offence and religious defamation.
3. Nestlé Challenges Thai Court’s Nescafé Ban
Nestlé is appealing a court-ordered halt on the production, import, and sale of Nescafé in Thailand. The legal dispute with former partner Quality Coffee Products stems from a terminated licensing deal. Nestlé argues intellectual property rights are at stake and wants the case moved to a specialist court. A hearing is scheduled for June 20, leaving the fate of the coffee brand in limbo.
4. Foreign Tour Guides Exploiting Thai Loopholes
Illegal foreign tour guides are bribing officials to bypass Thai tourism laws, particularly in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai. Many exploit visa loopholes or run nominee businesses masked as Thai-owned. The Professional Tourist Guides Association urges tighter enforcement and visa scrutiny to protect local jobs and tourism standards.
5. AI Police Cyborg Makes High-Tech Debut at Songkran
Thailand unveiled its AI Police Cyborg 1.0 at Nakhon Pathom’s Songkran festivities. Equipped with facial recognition, 360° cameras, and behaviour tracking, the robot impressed festival-goers while enhancing security. The move signals a futuristic shift in law enforcement presence at public events without compromising cultural festivities.
6. Phuket Celebrates Zero Road Deaths During Songkran
Phuket reported no road fatalities during the notorious “Seven Dangerous Days” of Songkran, despite 38 accidents and 39 injuries. Authorities credited increased enforcement and public awareness, though drink driving and speeding remained top causes. Officials urge continued caution as post-holiday travel continues.
7. Xi Jinping Reaffirms Strong Ties with Cambodia
During a state visit, Chinese President Xi Jinping labelled Cambodia a “priority” partner in China’s regional strategy. Both sides pledged deeper cooperation under the “Diamond Hexagon” framework and reinforced collaboration through the Belt and Road Initiative. The visit is expected to yield several new agreements.
8. Elderly Seoul Woman Rescued After 18-Hour Balcony Ordeal
A 70-year-old woman in Seoul was rescued after being trapped on her balcony for 18 hours. Locked out while watering plants, she crafted a distress signal with clothing. Police spotted the dangling makeshift rope and intervened. The incident raised concerns about elderly safety in urban high-rise settings.
9. Russia Denies Air Base Request in Indonesia, Criticises AUKUS Pact
Russia denies requesting access to an Indonesian air base amid rising military cooperation. Jakarta reaffirmed its neutral stance, while Russia condemned Australia’s AUKUS submarine pact. Moscow stressed strategic ties with Indonesia, blaming Western powers for destabilising the region.
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